It was a busy June this year with three standout clinics that brought New Hampshire youth together for hands-on learning, connection, and exploration in the world of animal science. All About the Dogs Weekend, the Sheep and Goat Clinic, and the Working Steer Clinic each offered a unique experience, but all shared the same core, passionate youth, knowledgeable volunteers, and an environment filled with support, kindness, and opportunity.
At the Sheep and Goat Clinic, the Belknap County 4-H Fairgrounds buzzed with activity. Youth participants rotated through stations that taught skills such as washing, shearing, and trimming, as well as topics like veterinary science, nutrition, equipment care, and animal anatomy. Volunteers were always nearby, offering guidance and support, whether someone was attending their very first clinic or coming back to sharpen existing skills. The energy was high, the animals were well loved, and the learning was nonstop.
Among those volunteers was Shawn Bingham, a longtime supporter of the 4-H program and proud alum. His presence at the Sheep and Goat Clinic was more than just helpful, it was deeply meaningful.
“As a 4-H alumnus, I will always enjoy coming back to pass on what this great program gave me, lifelong skills, confidence, and a supportive community. I’ve looked forward to the sheep clinic every year, even when I was a kid, and now it’s especially rewarding to see the curiosity and excitement in the next generation as they ask questions, try new things, and grow in confidence. It’s an honor to volunteer and be part of that journey.”
Shawn’s words embody the spirit of 4-H and the impact volunteers have on youth. His commitment to giving back reflects the heart of what makes these clinics possible, a community of caring adults who believe in the power of mentorship and hands-on learning.
The All About the Dogs Weekend, held at the Hillsborough County 4-H Fairgrounds, was another powerful example of youth learning in action. Hosted by the Rolling Bones 4-H Dog Club from Merrimack County, this event came to life thanks to the dedication of lead volunteer Danielle Furness, who puts in countless hours to make it a success. Participants got the chance to work with their dogs on everything from obedience and care to agility and showmanship. It provided an opportunity for 4-H Dog Program members to be better prepared for upcoming events and shows. The weekend was filled with laughter, encouragement, and proud moments as youth built their skills alongside their canine companions.
The Working Steer Clinic also took place at the Belknap County 4-H Fairgrounds. This clinic brought together youth and their teams of working steers for a day full of training and teamwork. The discipline and care shown by participants was remarkable, and they used this opportunity to refine their technique and connect with others in the working steer community.
The impact of these clinics was clearly reflected in participant feedback. Post-event survey data showed that over 50% of youth strongly agreed that they are now interested in academics or a career in animal science, a powerful indicator of how these experiences can shape future goals. An even more striking result, over 75% strongly agreed that these events gave them the opportunity to explore something they are passionate about. Whether it was fitting a goat, guiding a dog through an obstacle course, or maneuvering a working steer team, youth were given the space and encouragement to try, learn, and grow.
What makes all this possible is the 4-H community itself. Staff and volunteers like Shawn and Danielle work behind the scenes and on-site to create engaging, educational events that run smoothly and safely. The culture is one of collaboration, mentorship, and care, where everyone is working toward the common goal of positive youth development.
June was a reminder of what 4-H does best, creating spaces where youth can find their passions, explore new skills, and build relationships with adults who believe in them. These experiences don’t just prepare young people for fairs or shows, they help them become beyond ready for life. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and a strong sense of community, 4-H members gain confidence, resilience, and real-world skills that carry them far beyond the barn. It’s a community that lifts each other up and celebrates every success, big or small. Thank you to everyone who made these clinics possible, your kindness, leadership, and hard work make a difference every single day.
The 4-H Basics
What is 4-H?
4-H is America’s largest youth development organization. The purpose of 4-H is to provide a supportive setting for all youth to pursue the projects and interests they love, all while serving the community and gaining valuable life skills.
What do the 4 H’s in 4-H mean?
The 4 H’s stand for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. Our organization’s title is directly connected to our pledge:
"I pledge ... my Head to clearer thinking, my Heart to greater loyalty, my Hands to larger service, and my Health to better living for my club, my community, my country, and my world."
How old do you have to be to join 4-H?
Our programs are primarily geared towards youth ages 8-18. However, we have ways for your 5-7-year-olds to participate as a “Cloverbud.” If you are older than 18 and still want to express the 4-H spirit, you can take advantage of our many volunteer opportunities.
How do I find my local county 4-H program?
New Hampshire 4-H is the youth development program of UNH Cooperative Extension, and our 10 County 4-H Programs in New Hampshire serving youth from all over the state. 4-H operates on many levels of the community. There are events, programs, workshops, and opportunities on both the County level and the State level (even the National level). Get started by finding your County 4-H Program here. Your county program is usually the county where you live, but if you are planning to join a 4-H club in a different county, that county program will be your home base.
How do I find a local 4-H Club?
The list of Clubs and Afterschool Programs on your County 4-H Program page is a great place to start. To get connected with a club, complete our 4-H interest form, and a 4-H staff member will be in touch to find out more about your interests and put you in touch with a Club Leader that fits your interests and location.
Who leads 4-H Clubs?
The best people in the world lead 4-H Clubs. No joke! 4-H Volunteers lead Clubs, and you can be sure they are truly invested in giving their attention and skills to your children because they do it for free. 4-H nationally gets over a billion dollars of time and expertise from our Volunteers every year. Why on earth would they do that? Because giving your children skills and opportunities is incredibly rewarding for them, and 4-H supports and empowers them to make the maximum impact possible. All 4-H Volunteers are supported by a professional staff, including your County 4-H Program Manager and Field Specialists who are University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension staff members.
What are 4-H Club meetings like?
4-H youth work on projects of all kinds within four general program pathways: Agricultural Science, Civic Engagement, Healthy Living, and STEM. Some Clubs specifically focus on one of these pathways. Other Clubs generally dabble in all four. Youth have opportunities to present and showcase their projects at the county fairs and other county, state, and regional events – but most of the learning and skill development happens in the Clubs. 4-H Club members build leadership by electing officers and conducting their own business meetings, work together on community service activities, meet new friends, and of course, have lots of fun.
What if I don’t necessarily want to join a club?
There are still many ways to be involved! 4-H is committed to bringing you programs wherever you are, and maybe joining a Club is not for you at this time. Youth and families who want to attend county-wide events and SPINs or work on 4-H projects independently are recognized as “independent members” or “participants”. Find a 4-H event near you or contact us to get started as a 4-H independent member.
How do I officially enroll in 4-H?
ZSuite is our official enrollment database. Registering in ZSuite allows you to manage your 4-H clubs and projects, register your 4-H animals, and sign up for events. Enrollment as a club member or participant is required to register for your county events and SPINs. If you need help enrolling, check out our Enrolling in NH 4-H.
How do I get involved as a 4-H volunteer?
There are many different kinds of opportunities to support 4-H through volunteering – see all of them here. To volunteer as a Club leader, project leader, or SPIN facilitator, there is a volunteer application and onboarding process. We are here to get you started and guide you through it – start by completing the 4-H Volunteer Application online.
Can parents be involved in 4-H Clubs?
Parents can and should be involved in 4-H Clubs. Speak to the Club Leader to define the best role for you!
How do I start a local 4-H group?
Screened 4-H Volunteers can start a 4-H group aka “Club.” There is a more involved orientation process for Club Organizational Leaders that is designed to bring their vision into reality and highlight the extra responsibilities. We are here to get you started and guide you through it – start by completing the 4-H Volunteer Application online.
