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Joining NYS 4-H is simple. Contact your local Cornell Cooperative Extension office for more information.

4-H Youth Development creates opportunities for youth to develop skills, practical knowledge, and wisdom through observing, doing, and reflecting on experiences.  We call this “learning by doing”—a learning model that has been active and successful for 100 years.

4-H is the youth development program of Cornell Cooperative Extension, linking the resources of Cornell University to young people.

Find Out More

• 4-H Brochure
• 2007 Annual Report
• Volunteer
• Collegiate 4-H

FAQs:

How can my family get involved in 4-H?  Contact your local Cornell Cooperative Extension office. An extension educator working with the 4-H Youth Development Program will be able to guide you and your child to 4-H opportunities in your area.  There are 4-H clubs, afterschool activities, school enrichment projects, camps or events in every county.

How old do girls and boys have to be to become involved in  4-H?

The traditional 4-H club program is open to all youth, ages 9 to 19. Many counties, however, have Cloverbud programs available to youth ages 5 to 8.

What can 4-H do for my child?

4-H helps make learning come alive, enriching traditional education with project work and hands on activities.  4-H  camps, afterschool programs and clubs choose projects that youth are interested in.  New York State has more than 150 4-H projects to choose from. These projects are educational and practical. Your child may attend regular meetings, be involved in public speaking and community service activities, or serve as a club officer. Your child also may want to participate in county events such as 4-H camp or the county fair. Also, opportunities are available for learning in other states and countries.

How much does it cost to join 4-H?

Participating in 4-H costs very little. Counties may charge a small enrollment fee. 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.

When my child joins 4-H, do I have to become a leader?  In some cases, volunteering will make sense and be beneficial to your family.  Parents don’t have to become 4-H leaders when their child joins a 4-H club, 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.  Other opportunities like 4-H Afterschool, and camps require little parent involvement.

How do I become a volunteer? Whatever your talents or interests, there is a volunteer role for you in the Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development Program. 4-H volunteers receive excellent training, guidance and ongoing supervision appropriate to the specific roles they assume. To learn more about 4-H volunteer opportunities and to obtain a volunteer application form talk to the 4-H staff at your local Cornell Cooperative Extension office.