About 4-H

To make the best better.

What is 4-H?

4-H is a youth development program delivered by the University of Wisconsin – Madison Divison of Extension and more than 100 public universities across the nation to provide experiences where young people learn by doing. Youth learn in a safe and inclusive environment through hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture, and citizenship. Education happens through 4-H projects, group programs, events, and in-depth learning experiences.

4‑H empowers young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime. It’s a research-based experience that includes a mentor, a hands-on project, and a meaningful leadership opportunity.

4‑H reaches almost six million young people through our community of 100 public universities. 3,500 4‑H professionals and 500,000 volunteers deliver programs. Young people experience 4‑H through school and community clubs, in-school and after-school programs, and 4‑H camps.  Over-arching 4-H Program areas include STEM & Agriculture, Healthy Living, and Citizenship.

Who can join?

4-H is open to all youth in Kindergarten through one year past high school. 4-H is available in the cities, villages, rural farms, and the country! Our organization is open to all youth regardless of race, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. Visit our New 4-H Families page to get started!

What do 4-Her’s do?

Jackson County 4-H members work together to learn critical thinking and decision making, empathy, life skills, and healthy lifestyles.  4-H youth and adult volunteers work to improve their individual lives and communities in which they live.  We in Jackson County aim to serve all youth in the county best and strive to give opportunities to youth and adults alike through: programming, events, leadership opportunities, and so much more!

Youth join a 4-H club in their area to help them build relationships and leadership skills. They pick projects that interest them and do hands-on learning about these interests all year long. Some youth choose to exhibit their projects at the county fair-however, 4-H is about much more than just the Fair. There are so many activities for a child to participate in throughout the year, covering a wide range of project areas.  You can find updates of what 4-Her’s can do and news in our newsletter, the 4-H Flyer Dispatch.

How do I join?

Joining 4-H is as easy as 1, 2, 3! First, figure out what you are interested in and what club would best suit your needs.  You can learn about different clubs in the county by looking at the 4-H Club site, calling the Extension Jackson County office, or talking to club leaders.  Once you find a club that fits you and your family’s lifestyle, enrollment is done via our online database system, 4HOnline.  For the complete list of steps, check out our Join 4-H site.

To learn more general information about 4-H across the nation, please go to the website HERE.