4-H

Extension’s most often recognized or acknowledged youth development program is the 4-H club program. Clubs are an important part of the comprehensive youth development program conducted by the University of Missouri Extension.

In addition, 4-H youth development staff in Missouri work behind the scene with other professionals in the community to better the conditions and climate for families and all youth in the community.

Monroe County 4-H clubs

Cannon Kids Club meets on the second Sunday of every month at 4 p.m. at the Monroe City Methodist Church.

Club leader: Jim Burns, 573-735-1274

Eager Beavers Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. in the basement of the Paris Library.

Club leader: Laura Long, 660-327-1314

Holliday Horizons Club meets on the first Sunday of every month at 3 p.m. at Holliday School.

Club leader: Amanda Lehenbauer, 573-406-4487

Madison Club meets on the second Sunday of every month at 4 p.m. at Lions Den in Madison.

Club leader: Kayla Doerhoff, 417-720-0169

Mark Twain Club meets pm the first Sunday of every month at 4 p.m.in the winter, or 6 p.m. in the summer, at the Florida Presbyterian Church.

Club leader: Mary DeOrnellis, 573-473-6938

Paris Patriots Club meets on the second Wednesday of every month at 6:30p.m. at the Paris Methodist Church.

Club leader: Kim Mitchell, 573-819-2303

About 4-H

4-H brings young people, ages 5 to 18, and adults together to learn everyday skills through hands-on learning. Working on activities from animal and plant sciences to robotics, 4-H’ers learn problem-solving skills that can make a positive impact upon our community. Through 4-H, young people learn to meet the diverse challenges of today’s world, build self-confidence, learn responsibility and make positive decisions.

4-H clubs are open to ages 8 to 18. Clubs meet monthly for group activities and club business. Each club elects officers and has an approved adult leader who supervises club activities. Club members also enroll in projects in their areas of interest.

With projects on more than 75 topics, 4-H has something to interest every child. Here are just a few of the opportunities 4-H offers: geocaching, robotics, international exchanges, horsemanship, pets, starting a business, arts and crafts, raising animals, woodworking, photography and gardening.

Clover Kids introduces 5- to 7-year-olds to the 4-H experience. In Clover Kids, children learn how to get along with others, work in groups and explore their interests, while building self-confidence. Clover Kids do not enroll in projects or raise animals and do not participate in competitive events, contests or shows.

Joining 4-H is as easy as contacting your local extension office. A staff member will explain the enrollment process and membership dues. In addition to dues, some projects may require a small investment to get started, and there may be a fee for materials, trips or other activities.

Young people are welcome to join at any time. The 4-H program year runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30. Certain activities may have participation deadlines.

Adult volunteers are essential to 4-H. Adult volunteers serve as club or project leaders, help with county or regional events, chair committees and organize fundraisers. You don't have to be a parent or grandparent of the 4-H member to get involved. All volunteers are screened for child abuse and neglect, as well criminal records, before they are accepted and each year thereafter. As a volunteer, University of Missouri Extension will provide you with training so you will be well-prepared and successful as an adult leader. The orientation includes information on 4-H history and the educational framework, the characteristics of age groups, character development and safety.

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