Questions and Answers
WHAT IS 4-H?
Kansas 4-H is open to all youth between the ages of 7 and 18. It is an informational, educational organization which helps youth to develop life skills. A new year begins in October and youth are encouraged to enroll then to receive the full year of fun and activities.
Sunflower Extension District deadline to re-enroll in 4-H to show at your county fair is December 1. The project drop/add date is May 1
New member deadline to enroll in 4-H and show at your county fair is May 1.
Each of the four H's on the clover represent ways youth can grow and develop in 4-H.
The four H's represent:
- Head-critical thinking, problem solving.
- Heart-self-discipline, integrity, communication.
- Hands-serving others.
- Health-choosing healthy lifestyles.
The 4-H year begins October 1 and ends September 30 of the following year.
- Members live in towns, in the country, and on farms. 4-H is open to all youth regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or disability.
- Kansas 4-H Youth Development has a policy for open enrollment. Eligible youth may enroll in Kansas 4-H Youth Development programs at any time of the year.
- Youth wanting to join must be 7 years old and not older than 18 as of December 31 of the new year in order to be eligible for 4-H. 4-H members who are selected as winners in late summer or fall, and who turn 19 before January 1, cannot compete in state or national contests, awards, or recognition programs.
- Youth ages 5—6 years old prior to January 1 of the current 4-H year are eligible to participate in the Cloverbuds project which is offered through the 4-H clubs. Cloverbuds members are encouraged to attend Cloverbuds county-wide project meetings.
- CloverBud Policy Guide
DOES IT COST?
Yes, there is a $15 membership fee to join 4-H. Some projects may have a very small fee to help purchase the supplies used during the project meeting with your child.
HOW CAN I JOIN?
First, find a club for your child. We encourage you to find a club that best fits your family schedule and has your child's friends involved. Next, complete the enrollment online.
WHAT ARE THE CLUBS?
Community clubs typically have structured business meetings, and emphasize community service, recreational activities and improving communication skills. There are currently 4 clubs in the Sherman County, 3 clubs in Wallace County, 4 clubs in Cheyenne County. You become a member of a club then you sign up for activity projects you have an interest in.
| Cheyenne County Clubs | Sherman County Clubs | Wallace County Clubs |
| Bird City Go-Getters Lawn Ridge Pleasant Hill Plum Creek | Country Clovers Prairie Dale Ruleton Eager Beavers Sunflower | Harrison Endeavers Smoky Valley Weskan Windmills |
IS 4-H JUST FOR THE KIDS?
4-H is strong on the family as a whole participating. Members along with their family work on many activities together. They plan meetings, events, and projects together. Family members help out as club leaders, project leaders, meeting helpers, transportation aides and in a variety of other ways. Parental involvement can help ensure the best learning experience for your child.
HOW DOES 4-H HELP COMMUNITIES?
4-H members are encouraged to learn about and contribute to the betterment of their communities. Each club will plan and organize an event within the community.
WHAT ARE THE PROJECTS?
Kansas 4-H offers 29 project areas designed to develop a wide range of interests. 4-H members "learn by doing" by attending meetings which are offered in a specific area of interest. Volunteer leaders schedule and work together with your child to develop new and exciting skills.
WHAT LIFE SKILLS ARE GAINED?
Many life-long skills are gained through meetings, presentations, and group activities. Skills learned in 4-H last a lifetime:
- A positive self-concept.
- An inquiring mind.
- A concern for the community.
- Healthy interpersonal relationships.
- Sound decision-making.
CAN I BE A VOLUNTEER?
Yes, definitely. Each project needs a volunteer leader to help guide and teach members in that specific area. If you have an interest in an area, become a leader and learn the enjoyment of working in a positive direction with youth. Contact the extension office to volunteer.
