Frequently Asked Questions:
Who may join 4-H?
4-H is open to all youth who have reached their 5th birthday (on or before October 1st of the current 4-H year) through those who have not reached their 19th birthday (on or before October 1st of the current 4-H year). The 4-H year runs October 1 to September 30.
There are four age groups in 4-H:
- Cloverbud: ages 5-7
- Junior: ages 8-10
- Intermediate: ages 11-13
- Senior: ages 14 to 19
Youth must be at least 8 years of age on October 1 to participate hands-on with large animals, shooting sports, and specific types of food preservation projects.
Adults 18+ can apply to volunteer with us.
Do I Have to Have Animals or Live on a Farm?
Nope! 4-H members can explore any subject area that interests them! Project areas include, but are not limited to: Expressive Arts, Family Living, Environmental Stewardship, Plant Sciences, Animal Sciences, Engineering & Technology and more!
Each 4-H member selects at least one project. A project is what the subject the member decides to learn about, make, or raise. Members choose projects that fit into their family, club, and community.
Learn more about Joining Grays Harbor County 4-H
Grays Harbor County 4-H has a variety of active 4-H clubs all across the county. It is important to find a club that is the right fit for your family. Review the Welcome to Grays Harbor 4-H document, and contact volunteer 4-H club leaders who offer projects in your interest area and let them know that you are interested in joining their club. The club leader will provide information on their club structure i.e. meeting schedules, service projects, activities and more. This is the time to ask your questions! If you need assistance with finding a club, contact the 4-H Program Coordinator for assistance. We are happy to help you get started on your 4-H journey! Once you have connected with a club leader about joining their club, your family will complete the enrollment process using the link and resources below:
4-H Enrollment Process:
All new and returning 4-H youth members and adult volunteers enroll in the 4-H Youth Development Program by logging in to their profile and entering information in the 4-H Online enrollment database system at https://v2.4honline.com/
*** Enrollment Help Guides and Videos available at https://extension.wsu.edu/4h/member-resources/
*** Extra information for Enrollment After GH 4-H Fair Eligibility Deadline – April 1st
In addition to the 4-H Club you choose to join, 4-H members also have the opportunity to participate in many other activities to enrich their 4-H experience, such as:
Public Presentations
4-H members choose a subject and prepare a presentation which is presented to others. Members learn important public speaking and communication skills.
Consider presenting your topic at the Grays Harbor County Fair!
Record Keeping
4-H members keep a written record of what they have done during the 4-H year. Keeping records helps members evaluate their learning and develop business sense.
Community Service Projects
4-H Clubs plan and execute community service projects. 4-H clubs often choose projects in conservation, beautification, safety, or health. We encourage you to find a need in our community and create a positive impact.
County Contests and Fairs
Contests and fairs give 4-H members an opportunity to showcase their project and what they have learned throughout the year. The Grays Harbor County Fair usually takes place during the first part of August.
4-H Camps and Conferences
A variety of daytime and overnight experiences are available to choose from for both younger members and teens. Camps and conferences offer opportunities for education, leadership and personal growth. 4-H members will have the first chance to register for our annual overnight summer camp at Panhandle Lake 4-H camp held in July!
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local WSU Extension office.
