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How to Join 4-H

Who Can 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 (horses, cows, sheep, pigs) and in shooting sports.

How to Join 4-H

In 4-H, youth choose one or more areas of interest to explore. 4-H calls these areas of interest “projects”. Youth also choose a 4-H club in which to explore their project. Follow these steps to get involved in a 4-H Club.

1. Choose a Project

What are you interested in? 4-H offers many opportunities to learn more! Choose one (or more) of the projects offered in Island County 4-H:

  • Dogs, Horses, Cats, Rabbits, Cavies, Beef, Dairy, Sheep, Swine, Goats, Poultry
  • Environmental Stewardship & Exploration
  • Archery, Riflery,
  • Gardening, Foods, Sewing, Needlework, Photography, Creative Arts, Performing Arts
  • Computers, Technology, Minecraft
  • and more!

2. Choose a 4-H Club

To find a club that offers leadership in the project you are interested in, visit our 4-H Club Directory

You can also contact 4-H staff to find a club; or to learn how to start your own! 360-639-6064 or email at Island.4h@WSU.edu

3. Make Connections

Use the provided contact information to connect with clubs to learn more about them and arrange to visit meetings or activities to find the club that best fits your needs and goals.

4. Enroll in 4-H and HAVE FUN!

Once you have chosen a club, enroll in 4-HOnline. Then jump right in and get involved! 4-H is all about learning-by-doing, hands-on fun!

Enroll in 4-H online:


4-H Participation Models

Community Clubs

A 4-H club is a group of youth who are led by volunteers. Clubs may be a single-project club, where the group only participates in one project area (like only dogs, or only cooking) or multi-project club, where the group participates in many project areas.

School Enrichment and Camps

4-H offers over 450 curriculum and learning resources that are research-based, peer-reviewed, hands-on fun for after school, home school, school enrichment, day camps, and more. We’d love to talk with you about content delivery options for your program.

Visit the 4-H Curriculum and Resources Webpage.

Adults 18+ can apply to volunteer with us

Washington State University Extension

Island County 4-H
406 North Main Street, Coupeville, Washington, 98239.
360-639-6064 | island.4h@wsu.edu