Information About 4-H Clubs

Becoming a member in 4-H can take you places you have never been before! If you are between 5 and 19 years of age you can become a 4-H member.

What Are 4-H Clubs?

Five or more children ages 8 to 12 or teens ages 13 to 19, along with their parents and/or other supportive adults, meet with a 4-H staff person to form a 4-H club. Each club will design a program of projects and activities that will provide fun learning experiences and blend with the interests of that club. Youth involved in 4-H clubs gain self esteem, leadership ability, and more important social as well as practical skills. Parents and/or other adults teach these projects at club meetings usually held twice a month.

How 4-H Clubs Help Youth Succeed

Today, more than ever, parents are looking to provide their children with safe, educational and fun activities. Research done on the impact 4-H club involvement has on children is incredibly positive. A strong 4-H club acts as a “mini community,” where children gain developmental assets.

Program Offerings

Youth members and adult leaders have many opportunities to participate in programming on several levels. They include Club – County – District – Regional and State. Clubs can choose from over 80 projects and activities.

How do you Join a 4-H Club?

Check the list of clubs on our website to get an idea of what we offer, and then check with our staff to see if a particular club is full or accepting new members - we'll be happy to help your child find a club to participate in.

How do you get a 4-H group started?

You need at least 5 young people ages 8 to 12 or 13 to 19 and adult leaders who are willing to help. A Membership Specialist is available to meet with you to get you started, or you can attend one of our fall or winter recruitment nights. Check with the 4-H office for schedule.

Can younger youth participate?

• Cloverbuds are 4-H members who are between 5 and 8 years old
• Can join in on the same fun as the older kids
• Make new friends and have fun learning
• Can give a public presentation and earn a special trip to a fun place
• Can show projects at the Youth Fair with participation ribbons for all
• Can become regular members when they reach third grade

How much time is involved?

Whatever you choose for your child. 4-H is not a “drop-off” program. A 4-H club is something you do with your child. Parents play an active role as project leaders. Clubs generally meet one-to-two times a month for about two hours each meeting. Children that want a broader experience can opt to be involved in multiple clubs, or in a county-wide or higher-level program.

How much does it cost to join 4-H?

Joining 4-H clubs costs very little. Individual clubs may charge dues to cover expenses, and some project areas, such as photography and livestock, may require a small investment for supplies and equipment. Clubs get involved in annual county-wide fundraisers that help raise money for their clubs.

When I join 4-H, do my parents have to become leaders?

Parents don't have to become 4-H leaders when you join 4-H, but most leaders appreciate the assistance of parents or other adults. This help can range from being a project leader, to driving members to activities, to supplying refreshments for a meeting.

Awards and Recognition

There are awards for both individual and group work done on the club level, and for those who choose to participate up to state level. In addition, awards and recognition happen several times a year via county-wide programming, through the Dutchess County Fair, State Fair, annual Achievement Night, and 4-H Leaders’ Recognition. A system of awards includes, pins, certificates, ribbons, medals and award trips.