What is 4-H ?
4-H members learn by doing. Through hands-on learning experiences, youth members, with guidance from adult volunteers, and learn useful skills they can use throughout their lifetime
Program Details
4-H is the youth development education program of Washington State University Extension, which is conducted jointly by the USDA Department of Agriculture your state land grant university WSU and Pend Oreille County. Today 4-H is everywhere–in cities, suburbs, small towns, and rural communities. In the 21st century, 4-H serves a broad clientele with an expanded program using a variety of ways to “learn by doing.”
4-H club work has something for everyone – more than 140 projects from which to choose! Membership in Pend Oreille County clubs is open to children ages 5 to 19. Traditional clubs are organized and managed by volunteer adult leaders who work with the WSU County Extension Office to teach life skills education through 4-H project work. Learning life skills helps club members become competent, contributing adults.
Clubs are located in all parts of the county to make membership convenient. Enrollment in 4-H occurs annually from October 1st through November 30. The results of 4-H project work are frequently seen at the County Fair in August of every year.
- Public Presentations: 4-H members show and tell others how to do something they have learned. Members learn public speaking and communication skills while helping others.
- 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 a business sense.
- Recreation: 4-H’ers learn to enjoy life, themselves, and their association with others in social activities.
- Community Service Projects: The entire club can plan a project. In community service projects, 4-H’ers do things to improve their community.
- County Contests and Fairs: 4-H members can choose to take part in judged contests. Through the judging process members learn how to “make the best better,” or in other words, how to improve their projects. Contests and fairs also give members a sense of pride and accomplishment. 4-H’ers receive ribbons and prizes for their efforts. The Pend Oreille County Fair is our showcase event of the year.
4-H Camp and Conferences: Many 4-H members choose to attend 4-H camps and conferences. A variety of day camps and overnight experiences are available to choose from, for both younger members and teens. Partial scholarships are often available.- General Leader – club organizer
- Project Leader – works with members on their projects
- Activity Leader – responsible for one or more activities. Examples are: recreation, record keeping, public presentations and community service.
- How do I become a Volunteer Leader?
Adults interested in becoming volunteer leaders may contact the 4-H office to complete the application and screening process. - How can I help without volunteering?
Donations keep the 4-H program running at the club, county, state, and national levels. Local donations can be made online or you can contact us for more donation options. - How do I get started with 4-H?
Call or visit our office. We would be more than happy to get you started! - If you have any more questions, please contact the WSU Pend Oreille County Extension Office or visit the Washington State 4-H website.