What is 4-H? Head, Heart, Hands & Health
4-H is a youth development program that helps young people develop knowledge and skills to become productive citizens. According to a 4-H study of Positive Youth Development conducted by the Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development at Tufts University, shows youth engaged with 4-H are:
- Nearly two times more likely to get better grades in school;
- Nearly two times more likely to plan to go to college;
- Forty-one percent less likely to engage in risky behaviors; and
- Twenty-five percent more likely to positively contribute to their families and communities.
Who is 4-H for?
4-H is for all youth, whether they live on farms, in suburbs or in cities, whether they’re interested in livestock, gardening, hiking, science or cooking. 4-H serves youth from all backgrounds and interests, and reaches both boys and girls through 4-H clubs, special interest groups, after school programs, camping and school enrichment. In Carroll County youth are participating in gardening, livestock clubs, dog clubs, science clubs, Geo-caching and so much more.
What happens in a 4-H club?
A 4-H club generally concentrates on one or more projects such as gardening, woodworking, horses, photography etc. 4-H members build leadership by electing officers and conducting their own business meetings work together on community service activities; meet new friends; and most importantly, have lots of fun.
What age must I be to join 4-H? 5-18
Youth, 8-18 can be standard 4-H club members and enroll in many different 4-H projects.
Youth 5-7, can be 4-H Cloverbud members. The Cloverbud program is a noncompetitive learning experience.
Who runs the 4-H programs in Carroll County?
Volunteers are the key to providing 4-H programs for youth in Carroll County. Capable, interested adult volunteers are always needed to lead clubs and to assist with 4-H activities. Orientation is provided, so no previous experience is necessary. 4-H volunteers are supported by a professional staff, including a county 4-H Program Manager and Field Specialist who are staff of the University of New Hampshire’s Cooperative Extension.
How do I get involved?
To get involved either as a volunteer leader or as a youth member contact the Carroll County 4-H Program Manger at 603-447-3834.
The University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer.
University of New Hampshire, U.S. Department of Agriculture and N.H. counties cooperating.
“Helping You Put Knowledge and Research to Work.”
