What is 4-H?

4-H is a national organization which helps young people develop life-long knowledge and skills to become engaged citizens. Through 4-H, youth are also taught how to meet the diversities and challenges of today’s society by bringing together youth and adults to design programs that will teach skills for living. 4-H is truly a model of the “learning by doing” teaching concept. It reaches people in their own communities with delivery methods suitable to their needs. 4-H also helps to provide opportunities for families and communities to develop stronger bonds.

The 4-H program is a voluntary, non-formal educational program offered to all youth regardless of race, color, national origin, residence, or handicap. The Texas 4-H and Youth Development Program is conducted by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, which is a part of the Texas A&M University System. County and district 4-H programs are directed by Extension staff that also provides training and support to volunteers who work with 4-H members. The Texas 4-H and Youth Development Program serves youth in all 254 counties in Texas.

Young people in 4-H learn about citizenship, leadership, foods and nutrition, healthy lifestyles, veterinary science, mechanics and technology, horticulture, agriculture, and other subjects. To teach young people about these subjects, the 4-H program uses the learn-by-doing method of instruction. The 4-H project that each member selects according to their interest and ability is the program’s cornerstone. Projects involve setting goals and evaluating progress. The skills and knowledge learned in 4-H project work help members become more engaged individuals and citizens.

4-H Membership and Age

Any youth may become a member of 4-H when he/she has reached 8 years of age and has entered the 3rd grade. A youth’s last year in 4-H shall be the calendar year in which the 19th birthday occurs (4-H age is determined on his/her age as of August 31 of the calendar year). In addition, the youth must live in Rains County or attend the Rains ISD.

What are the four “H’s”?

The four “H’s” are explained in the organization’s pledge, which every 4-H’er should know:

           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.

 

The 4-H Motto is “TO MAKE THE BEST BETTER“ AND THE 4-H Slogan is “LEARN BY DOING“.

 

How Much Does It Cost?

4-H has a participation cost of $25 (before October 1st of each year) to $30 (October 1st and after) to join. Some projects might cost something to get started – like, if you want to do photography, you will need a camera and money to get pictures developed.