WHAT IN THE WORLD IS 4-H ABOUT!!!

 4-H is ........

 4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. 4-H is young people making new friends and memories while preparing to be future leaders.

What will I do in 4-H??

Want to race bicycles? Become a veterinarian? Take award-winning photographs? 4-H members have the opportunity to learn more about activities they are interested  in. In addition to participating in community service projects, attending county fairs, camps, club parties and trips to other state and countries, members can select from a wide variety of projects.

How do I join 4-H??

It's easy. Call your local University of Missouri Extension center, 660-895-5123. A 4-H staff member will guide you to the 4-H opportunities in your area.

Does it coast to join 4-H?

There is a small fee to join 4-H - check with your local University of Missouri Extension center for details. In addition, some projects may require a small investment to get started, and there may be charges f or materials or special trips. Books and guides on 4-H projects can also be purchased.

Can my parents or guardians be involved?

Parents and guardians can help as much as they would like. Whether it's making food for a meeting, driving members to activities or becoming a project leader, there is always room for parents and guardians to become involved. To be a recognized 4-H volunteer, you must successfully complete a 4-H volunteer application and screening process.

Who sponsors 4-H?

Missouri 4-H is sponsored by University of Missouri Extension in partnership with Lincoln University and state, federal and county government in each Missouri county.

How old do I have to be to join 4-H?

4-H welcomes all young people ages 5 to 18. For youths 5 to 7, there is a special 4-H program called the Clover Kids.

4-H is for boys and girls.

From 4-H groups to special interest groups to school enrichment projects, 4-H includes both boys and girls in its activities. As a result, more will-rounded young people are developed through 4-H.

4-H is for families.

4-H encourages and rewards participation by the entire family. Youths enroll as 4-H members. Other family members help out as group leaders, project leaders, meeting helpers, transportation aides, you name it!!! To be a recognized 4-H volunteer, you must successfully complete a 4-H volunteer application and screening process. 4-H is definitely a family affair.

In the process, family members learn more about each other through their involvement in 4-H. They may even become better families, appreciating each other's strengths and talents just a bit better.

4-H is for community

An integral part of the popularity of 4-H is that it reaches into the communities in which these families live. Many 4-H groups, for instance, meet in churches, schools and community centers. As part of their 4-H experience, young people are encouraged to develop a better understanding of communities and to contribute to community development.

HEAD - 4-H is an adventure, You will discover the world around you and find new ways to see it and yourself. You will learn how to think and act as a team member while working with others to accomplish your goals. You will have the opportunity to build your knowledge, skills and attitude.

HEART - You will have the chance to talk with other 4-H members and leaders about what is important to you. You will share similar ideas, thoughts and emotions and form lasting friendships and memories.

HANDS -  As a 4-H member, one of the benefits is gaining hands-on experience. In 4-H you'll learn new skills and have the opportunity to explore careers that interest you. You'll have fun improving your community while preparing for the future. Better yet, you'll make lifetime friends while sharing your talents and ideas with others.

HEALTH -  Being healthy means feeling good inside and out, which is important to 4-H'ers. You will begin to develop a healthy lifestyle by learning which foods are good for you and exercises that can give your physical and emotional well-being a real lift.

Listing of Various 4-H Projects for 2006