About 4-H

4-H is a worldwide youth development program available in every state and over eighty countries. It is open to all youth aged 5-to-19, who want to have fun, learn new skills, and explore the world. In return, youth who participate in 4-H find a supportive environment and opportunities for hands-on or "experiential" learning about things that interest them. They also get what all young people need to succeed in life--the confidence, compassion and connections with caring adults to make contributions to their communities. The mission of Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development is to unleash the power of youth and adults through diverse opportunities that meet community needs.

Nationally 4-H is a community of 6 million young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills. The 4-H community also includes 3,500 staff, 518,000 volunteers and 60 million alumni. 4-H'ers participate in fun, hands-on learning activities, supported by the latest research of land-grant universities, that are focused on three Mission Mandates: Citizenship, Healthy Lifestyles, and Science, Engineering and Technology. 

In Oneida County, 4-H reaches youth through a variety of delivery methods including: 4-H Clubs, independent membership, special interest programs, school enrichment and community outreach.

How Do You Join 4-H?

Youth who are five through seven years of age on or before January 1st of the club year should enroll as a 4-H Cloverbud member. Youth who are eight to eighteen years of age by January 1st of the current club year should enroll as a 4-H member. Youth who have reached their nineteenth birthday before January 1st of the 4-H club year may not enroll as a 4-H member. The annual 4-H enrollment program begins on October 1st and the annual 4-H enrollment fees are due by October 31st. 

Learn More!

Find out more about the history of 4-H and what it can offer you by visiting the other pages on this site, then get in touch with a local 4-H staff person today! We're looking forward to welcoming you to 4-H in our county!

Last updated November 4, 2019