September 1 marked the start of the new 4-H Youth Development club year. Youth ages 5 to 18 can join their local 4-H club(s) through 4-H online for $15 a year. If they register before October 1, they will receive a free T-shirt! 4-H is a nationwide program. In fact, it is the nation’s largest youth development program with approximately 6 million youth and over 35 million alumni of the program. Head, Heart, Hands and Health make up the four H’s. Youth who participate in 4-H have been found to be twice as likely to make healthier choices and four times more likely to make a positive contribution to their communities! How does this program run in South Carolina? Through Extension!
The Clemson University Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development uses a learn-by-doing approach to help youth gain the knowledge and skills to be responsible, productive and contributing members of society. This mission is accomplished by creating safe and welcoming learning environments, the involvement of caring adults, and utilizing the expertise and resources of Clemson University and the nationwide land-grant university system.
State specific upcoming events or highlights of the past?
Our Clemson Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development Agents work with local adult volunteers to form clubs that meet the interests and needs of their community. Over 122,000 youth statewide benefited from 4-H this past year. Counties offer a variety of 4-H programs from clubs, day camps, independent-study work, competitions, and in-school enrichment across areas of agriculture and animals, civic engagement, healthy living, natural resources, and STEM. From supporting AI and digital literacy and competing in bridge-building challenges to learning about our watersheds and how to care for animals, 4-H has something to spark every youth’s imagination and equips young people with the real-world skills, resilience, and confidence needed for future life and career challenges. For every dollar invested in a 4-H’er, there’s a $40 return in economic benefit to the youth, their family, and the community. You can learn about local clubs or become an adult volunteer by contacting your local 4-H Youth Development Agent, as well as see what is offered statewide online. Come see 4-H in action at the following upcoming events:
Tractor Supply Co. Paper Clover Campaign (November 27-December 13) – Support 4-H by donating a dollar at checkout in any local store to support 4-H programming!
South Carolina State Fair (October 15-25) – Check us out at our booth in the Ellison Building or visit the animal shows and exhibits! Members and volunteers get in free on 4-H Day on Saturday, October 17th.
CAFLS Tailgate and Youth Day (November 14) – All 4-H and FFA groups are invited to participate in annual Clemson experience. Registration is available and packages are $75 each which include a ticket to the football game against Georgia Tech, a meal ticket, and a T-shirt.
We are excited to welcome a regular contribution to the Staff Senate Newsletter from the Extension Senate President, Charley Maxwell. Visit the Extension Senate blog at https://blogs.clemson.edu/ces/.
