Welcome to 4-H!

What is 4-H?

4-H is built upon the principles of developing belonging, mastery, generosity and independence.

Youth, ages 5 – 19, participate in Washington through community clubs, after-school / school enrichment programs, and day / overnight camps.

Kids can choose from a wide variety of subject areas—everything from computer technology to the arts, and from robotics to plant and animal sciences.

The 4-H program is a voluntary, non-formal, educational program offered to all boys and girls regardless of race, color, national origin, place of residence, or handicap.

The curriculum is science-based and developed at our nation’s land-grant universities. 4-H programs are delivered by Washington State University educators in every county alongside 10,000 caring adult volunteers.

What do the H’s in 4-H stand for?

4-H challenges you to think and make decisions, both for yourself and as a member of a group. You will discover new ways to do things and different ways of dealing with everyday challenges. 4-H is big on self-discipline, responsibility, initiative, and leadership. You will become a positive force in today’s world.

4-H members often talk to club leaders and to each other about what matters to them. 4-H gives you a chance to become friends with other young people and caring adults. It is about building character, accepting people who are different, and making your community a better place to live.

In 4-H, you learn skills that you can use for the rest of your life. You won’t just talk about it, you will actually get your hands on it, learn by doing. Members choose from about 100 different skills— everything from bicycle safety to cooking to computer technology to veterinary science. 4-H often helps members discover interests that lead to rewarding careers.

Being healthy means feeling good; doing your best to balance school, friends, and family; and making the best choices. 4-H focuses on developing healthy lifestyles and understanding what happens when you make unhealthy choices.