What is 4-H?

4-H is a non-formal, educational, youth development program that is offered to kids age 5 (or in kindergarten) to 19, regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, or handicap.   The 4-H program utilizes four primary delivery methods to educate youth. These methods include community clubs and school enrichment, special emphasis, and camping programs.   Three types of learning experiences are emphasized in 4-H youth development programs and activities: hands-on (making, producing, practicing, observing, etc.); organized activities (demonstrations, workshops, field trips, camps, etc.); and leadership/citizenship (conducting, planning, assisting, informing, organizing, etc.)   4-H offers learning experiences in more than 200 subject matter areas. Some of these subject matter areas include: health, family life, photography, aerospace science, bicycles, natural resources, safety, horticulture and nutrition.    4-H programs have branched out into urban areas.    Volunteers are an essential part of the overall 4-H program. 4-H volunteers have the opportunity to contribute their time, energies, talents, and knowledge to help develop 4-H youth in a positive, educational way.    One out of every six people in South Dakota has been or is currently involved with 4-H youth development programs either as a member, parent, volunteer, or donor. There are currently 45 million 4-H alumni nationwide.    Anyone wishing to learn more about the 4-H program should call the county Extension Office.    The official 4-H emblem is a green, four-leaf clover with a white "H" on each clover leaf. The four H's stand for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health.    The official 4-H motto is: "To Make the Best Better."    The official 4-H pledge is as follows: "I pledge My Head to clearer thinking, My Heart to greater loyalty, My Hands to larger service and My Health to better living, for My Club, My Community, My Country and My World."

For more information on becoming a 4-H member,

Contact:

South Dakota Cooperative Extension Services

Box 428
Elk Point, SD 57025
Phone: 605-356-2321, Fax: 605-356-3047
E-mail: union@ces.sdstate.edu