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.

4-H is America's Largest youth development organization - empowering nearly 6 million young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime. 4-H Programming is delivered by Cooperative Extension- a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provides experiences where young people learn by doing. For more than 100 years, 4-H has welcomed young people of all beliefs and backgrounds, giving kids voices to express who they are and how they make their lives and communities better.

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. 

We offer many 4-H member opportunities. We encourage learning by doing and turn interest in to action! A County/Independent Members are 4-H members that are not in a club and work on project areas more independently and at their own pace. Club Members work at a club pace and focus more as group on a project area. Some of the project areas offered in Oneida County are: Beef, Dairy, Dog, Goat, Horse, Poultry, Rabbit/Cavy, Sheep, Swine, Vet Science, Arts and Crafts, Clothing and Textiles, Photography, Robotics, Tractor Safety, STEM, Archery, Community Service, Leadership, Public Presentations, Etc.

NEW: New for the 21-22 4-H year, Oneida County 4-H Staff will be offering a County 4-H Club out of the CCE Office location. The Club will meet the 3rd Monday of every month starting in October. This club is open to all youth in Oneida County, and we will cover both general 4-H Activities as well some more specific 4-H project areas depending on youth interest. 

Volunteers make a difference in our programs!

Did you know that more than 160 adults volunteer with Oneida County 4-H programs each year? Volunteering is fun and rewarding, and enables you to share your experiences with others. Do you like bird watching, cooking, gardening or working with animals? There are many interesting projects and fun things to do in 4-H.

Imagine a young person's satisfaction at learning a new skill, or at doing a job well. Imagine your own satisfaction at watching a young person blossom. You can help our young people as they gain confidence and self-esteem - essential ingredients for happy, productive citizens.

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.

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 August 31, 2021