For up to date program information, call the extension office at (806) 878-4026

What is 4-H All About?

4-H IS MORE THAN JUST A CLUB! 4-H is a community of young people across America who are learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. 4-H is about having fun, learning, exploring and discovering. In 4-H, young people make new friends, develop new skills, become leaders and help shape their communities.

More than 65,000 Texas youth are enrolled members of 4-H community clubs in Texas. Another 850,000 Texas youth get involved in 4-H through special educational opportunities at school, in after school programs, or at neighborhood or youth centers. These youth live in cities, suburbs, small towns and rural communities.

4-H gives them a chance to pursue their own interests – from photography to computers, from building rockets to raising sheep. They go places – to camp, to state and national conferences and they learn to be leaders and active citizens.

In 4-H clubs, they serve as officers and learn to conduct meetings, handle club funds, and facilitate group decision-making. In a growing number of communities, 4-H youth serve as youth representatives in municipal or county government or as members of Teen Courts. They give back to their communities. 4-H members get involved in volunteer projects to protect the environment, mentor younger children and help people who are less fortunate.

Mission of Texas 4-H

Prepare youth to meet the challenges of childhood, adolescence and adulthood, through a coordinated, long-term, progressive series of educational experiences that enhance life skills and develop social, emotional, physical and cognitive competencies.

Who can join Hutchinson County 4-H?

Hutchinson County 4-H is open to all Hutchinson County Youth, who are 9 years old (or 8 and in the 3rd grade) through 19. Youth enrolled in Kindergarten through 2nd grade can participate in non-competitive events and specific project meetings, they also have their very own club! This club is called the Hutchinson County Green Clovers!

What can you do through 4-H?

4-H Youth in Hutchinson County have the opportunity to participate in organized projects with learning opportunities. These projects range from the traditional livestock and food and nutrition, to the non-traditional photography, shooting sports, consumer decision making, and public speaking. The opportunities don’t stop there! Because 4-H is all about learning, anything that can help a child learn leadership, citizenship, or other life skills can be designed as a 4-H project. Just see your county extension agents for assistance in designing your personalized 4-H plan.

Why become a member?

Youth become members of 4-H for various reasons in Hutchinson County. Be it to show in a livestock show, learn to cook, hang out with friends, or just to have fun. Some valuable life skills and project knowledge that students might have the opportunity to participate in are: Leadership Events & Opportunities, Public Speaking Opportunities, Community Service Events, Interviewing Skills, Decision Making Skills, and Lifelong Friendships. Please contact the extension office more information.

How much does it cost and how do I join?

Each year, between September 1-October 31st there will be a $25 participation fee, after October 31st it will cost $30. There are projects that will require an investment, please acquire additional information before beginning projects. To join 4-H, all you need to do is go to 4-H Connect via the State 4-H page and start a profile for your family. After you have submitted all participants’ names and fees, you will begin to receive a monthly newsletter from the Extension Office. The newsletter includes deadlines, as well as information about upcoming projects and events.

As an adult how can I become involved with the 4-H program?

Adults interested in assisting the 4-H program can become volunteers. Volunteers are able to help with a number of items throughout the year. Our volunteers can be club managers, project leaders, chaperones or can help with refreshments and transportation to and from events. If you are interested in becoming a 4-H volunteer, please complete the volunteer registration on 4-H Connect (the same way you registered you kids). For the protection of our 4-H members, all forms are sent to the State Office where they perform background checks.