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What is 4-H?
4-H is a non-formal, educational program for youth, regardless of race, color, creed, religion,
sexual orientation, national origin, gender or handicap.
Why do children and teens like 4-H?
They have educational and fun experiences with their friends at meetings, social activities,
tours, camps and fairs. They learn by actually doing interesting things, such as taking care of animals, taking pictures, doing community service and cleaning up the environment.
How can a young person get involved in Delaware County 4-H?
Call the Extension Office to learn more about how your child can join 4-H and how you can contribute as a 4-H volunteer. You can contact the
Extension Office through the Contact Us page.
What is the age requirement for members?
A 4-H member is an individual age 5 (or in Kindergarten) to 19 as of January 1 of
the year enrolled in 4-H with a planned series of educational experiences, supervised by a volunteer and under the direction of Ohio State University Extension. Membership eligibility ends December 31 of the
calendar year (January 1 - December 31) in which a member attains the age of 19 years.
What does a 4-H club advisor do?
A club advisor works with a 4-H community or project club that
involves two or more youth who meet regularly to conduct club business, plan the club program and enroll individually or as a group in one or more 4-H projects. 4-H club advisors serve in three roles. An
Organizational Advisor serves as the primary communication and information liaison between the county 4-H professional and the other club members, their parents and other advisors in the club. A project
advisor assists 4-H members with their 4-H Projects. An activity advisor works with members in planning and conducting club activities. However, all of those advisors work together as a team in supporting
the members of the 4-H club and their parents.
What happens at the first club meeting?
Get acquainted and have fun with a group mixer and some refreshments. Show and talk about 4-H projects
and activities the group might enjoy. Discuss when, where, and how often the group will meet.
What about club officers?
4-H clubs have officers and committees to conduct business. 4-H has
written materials available for presidents, vice presidents, secretaries, treasurers, club reporters, recreation leaders and health and safety officers. A club may have other offices, too, depending on its
needs. It is a good idea to wait until the second or third meeting to elect officers so members know each other and are better prepared to select the most qualified people.
Are there enrollment deadlines?
4-H clubs may organize any time of the year. However, Delaware County has set enrollment deadlines by which time members must be enrolled and enrollment forms turned in
to the Extension Office in order for members to participate in certain programs (camps, county fair, awards programs, etc.)
What do 4-H members do at meetings?
4-H members usually do four
general kinds of things at club meetings: business, educational, social and service activities.
What do advisors do at meetings?
Advisors should be in the background at meetings to advise
and provide support for members as they conduct their activities. It is important for advisors to work with club officers ahead of time, so that they and the members (not the advisors) can be front and
center during the meetings.
What are 4-H projects?
4-H projects are specific areas of planned experiences, such as training pets, making clothing, growing plants and building model rockets.
4-H projects are in-depth learning experiences for 4-H members. Approximately 200 projects are currently available, with project literature written by faculty members of The Ohio State University.
What does a 4-H project cost?
There is a small charge for project books. The total cost to complete a 4-H project varies a great deal. A member enrolled in foods might use supplies around the home (to
practice the skills being learned) and have no direct expense. A member who buys a keeps a saddle horse might invest hundreds of dollars. Advisors, parents and members should discuss costs when projects are
selected. Costs should be realistic for the family budget.
Do members have to participate in county judging to complete their projects?
No. Members are not required to exhibit their work or
participate in competition in order to complete their 4-H project. However, participation in competitive activities and exhibits is encouraged as an educational, recognition and public awareness opportunity.
Fair premiums, ribbons, and other awards are incentives and symbols of recognition in Delaware County for those who participate.
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