The new 4-H year officially begins on September 1st in Greenville County, and we’re excited to launch with 15 active clubs serving youth across the region. Many of these clubs are led by dedicated volunteers who play a vital role in delivering high-quality programming and mentorship. Whether you’re a returning member or new to 4-H, you can explore all available clubs and find the right fit by visiting our newly updated website. We look forward to another impactful year of learning, leadership, and growth!
On Thursday, August 14, 2025, Fairfield County 4-H hosted its annual Awards Night, an evening filled with celebration, recognition, and community spirit. The event marked the official end to the 2024–2025 4-H year and gave members, families, and volunteers a chance to reflect on the successes of the past year while looking forward to the future.
In addition to celebrating new members, the evening honored youth who have demonstrated dedication, leadership, and achievement in various 4-H projects and activities. Volunteers, whose tireless support makes the program possible, were also thanked for their invaluable contributions.
This year’s Awards Night highlighted the remarkable growth of Fairfield County 4-H. More than 53 first-year members were recognized on stage, a clear reflection of the momentum and excitement surrounding the program. Each new member received a warm welcome and a special recognition item to mark their beginning in 4-H.
The evening wasn’t all formalities—members, families, and friends also enjoyed time together, sharing stories, smiles, and laughter. The celebration captured the heart of 4-H: learning, growing, and thriving together.
As Fairfield County 4-H steps into the 2025–2026 year, the excitement from Awards Night has set the tone for what promises to be another year of growth, discovery, and success.
Martina Wicker, 4-H Youth Development Agent: mewick@clemson.edu | 864-985-2904
The Midlands STEM 4-H Club is buzzing with excitement as they celebrate the opening of their brand-new Pollinator Garden, a hands-on project designed to support local ecosystems while giving youth a chance to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact in their community.
The garden, created and maintained by club members, is filled with pollinator-friendly plants chosen to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. Through this project, 4-H youth are gaining firsthand experience in environmental stewardship, science, and sustainable gardening practices—all while creating a welcoming space for pollinators that play a critical role in food production and biodiversity.
As part of their preparation, club members visited Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, where they learned about the importance of garden design and plant selection from the horticulture staff. They then applied what they learned to design and plant their own space, making the garden both a learning laboratory and a meaningful contribution to the community.
The school community came together, joined by members of the wider community, to celebrate the official opening of the garden. As part of the festivities, students released butterflies that had been raised in classrooms participating in the Fairfield 4-H Embryology Program, symbolizing growth, transformation, and the positive impact of youth-led projects.
The Pollinator Garden will serve as an outdoor classroom for the club, providing opportunities for lessons in biology, ecology, and agriculture. It also stands as a symbol of the club’s commitment to community involvement, as the space will be open for others to visit and enjoy.
The Midlands STEM 4-H Club thanks all volunteers, families, and community partners who supported the development of the garden. With their help, this project has truly taken root, and the club looks forward to watching both the garden—and its young leaders—continue to flourish.
Martina Wicker, 4-H Youth Development Agent: mewick@clemson.edu | 864.985.2904
Fairfield County 4-H is proud to announce the establishment of its very first Teen Council, marking a monumental moment in the program’s growth and development. This exciting new leadership opportunity gives teens a voice in shaping the direction of 4-H, while also building their skills in teamwork, organization, and service.
The newly formed Teen Council has already hit the ground running. Members have elected officers, begun planning future activities, and played a key role in helping plan and implement the recent 4-H Awards Night on August 14. Their involvement added fresh energy and creativity to the event, demonstrating the important role youth leadership can play in the success of the program.
In addition to their leadership responsibilities, the Teen Council has also enjoyed several outings together, strengthening friendships and building the kind of teamwork that will serve them well as they continue their work. They also helped design the brand-new Fairfield County 4-H T-shirt, giving them the chance to contribute in a lasting and creative way.
Looking ahead, the Teen Council will continue to help shape the Fairfield County 4-H program throughout the upcoming year, ensuring that youth voices remain at the center of planning, activities, and growth.
Martina Wicker, 4-H Youth Development Agent: mewick@clemson.edu | 864.985.2904
Fairfield County 4-H is celebrating a summer filled with learning, leadership, and lasting memories. From hands-on projects to leadership conferences, local youth had the chance to experience the very best of what 4-H has to offer.
The season kicked off with the Midlands STEM 4-H Club’s Grand Opening of their Pollinator Garden, a youth-led project designed to support local ecosystems and serve as an outdoor learning space for years to come. Shortly after, members participated in Forged in 4-H, a unique blacksmithing class where youth learned traditional metalworking skills while exploring creativity and craftsmanship.
In June, Fairfield 4-H members had the special opportunity to tour the South Carolina Governor’s Mansion, gaining a closer look at state history and leadership. Youth also explored their artistic side through Gallop Into Art, a program that combined creative expression with agricultural themes, allowing members to experiment with different art forms while celebrating their connection to the land and horses. At the end of the month, members attended STEM Camp and competed in activities such as Paper Rocketry, The Egg Drop Challenge, and Zipline Racers.
Later in the summer, members participated in Reel & Range Camp, where they practiced outdoor skills in fishing, shooting sports, and wildlife education. Leadership development was another highlight, with two Fairfield County 4-H members attending South Carolina 4-H Congress at Clemson University. This statewide gathering gave participants the chance to connect with peers, grow as leaders, and represent Fairfield County on a bigger stage.
The summer concluded with the highly anticipated Fairfield County 4-H Awards Night on August 14. This special evening celebrated the accomplishments of youth and volunteers, while also highlighting the program’s tremendous growth—including the recognition of over 53 first-year members.
From start to finish, the summer of 2025 showcased the impact of 4-H in Fairfield County: building skills, creating memories, and growing leaders for tomorrow. With momentum from such a successful season, Fairfield County 4-H looks forward to an even stronger year ahead.
Martina Wicker, 4-H Youth Development Agent: mewick@clemson.edu | 864.985.2904
The stage was set. All summer long, York County 4-H’ers had been tending to their tomato plants—watering, staking, pruning, and hoping for the perfect harvest. They all started the same way, with six small tomato plants—this year’s chosen varieties were Celebrity and Sun Gold—handed out at the start of summer. Each young grower transplanted their plants into a garden or container, then spent weeks battling weather, pests, and the unknowns of plant growth.
Yesterday, it all came down to one thing: the York County Tomato Judging Contest. Six titles were up for grabs. Ribbons, bragging rights, and a summer’s worth of work were on the line. The York County Master Gardeners stepped in as judges, inspecting each tomato with care, weighing entries to the gram, and debating over shapes, colors, and, yes… even the “worst” looking fruit.
Finally, the results were in:
2025 Winners
Heaviest Open – Caroline Huffstetler – 355 g
Heaviest Project – Morgan Webbie – 319 g
Best Tomato – Natalie Estes
Best Plate of 3 – Katelyn Huffstettler
Worst Looking Tomato – Evie Martell
Green Tomato – Raelynn Harris
Some tomatoes impressed with size, others with perfect form—and some, well, made everyone laugh. But every entry told a story of patience, learning, and determination.
This project isn’t just about who grows the biggest or the prettiest tomato. It’s about watching something you’ve nurtured from seedling to harvest, learning through trial and error, and discovering that sometimes the journey is just as rewarding as the ribbon.
A huge thank-you to the York County Master Gardeners for judging this year’s contest, and to the families and volunteers who made the Tomato Project possible. We can’t wait to see what grows in 2026!
Once a quiet spot with little 4-H activity, Fort Mill has blossomed into a thriving hub of youth development and community engagement. The Fort Mill 4-H Community Club has grown to nearly 50 active members, supported by 11 dedicated volunteers, creating a vibrant space where young people learn, lead, and give back.
Reviving 4-H in Fort Mill
Recognizing the need to reconnect youth with hands-on learning and leadership opportunities, Extension staff and volunteers worked to rebuild the 4-H presence in Fort Mill. Through dedicated outreach and engaging programming, the club has quickly become a favorite for youth eager to explore STEM, agriculture, and leadership.
A Garden Grows with Community Spirit
One of the club’s shining achievements is its well-maintained community garden. More than 20 youth actively tend the garden, learning about sustainable agriculture, responsibility, and teamwork. The garden serves as a living classroom and a symbol of the club’s commitment to growth — both of plants and of people.
Youth-Driven and Youth-Led
What sets Fort Mill 4-H apart is its emphasis on youth voice and leadership. All activities are planned and led by the young members themselves, empowering them to take ownership of their learning and community impact. From STEM projects to poultry care and leadership workshops, Fort Mill youth are at the helm.
Adding a unique harmony to Fort Mill’s 4-H community, the Joyful Noise Special Interest Club is a youth-led choir that recently held its debut concert. What makes Joyful Noise truly special is its creative connection to 4-H’s core program areas — each song performed was intentionally selected to reflect a specific 4-H project the club had explored together. From agriculture-themed melodies to tunes highlighting civic engagement and healthy lifestyles, the performance was not only entertaining but also a meaningful showcase of what 4-H youth are learning and leading. Joyful Noise is a shining example of how creativity, leadership, and learning come together to make the 4-H experience both impactful and unforgettable.
Serving the Community and Building Life Skills
The club is deeply involved in community service and fundraising efforts, teaching youth the value of giving back while developing important life skills. Since its first club meeting, Fort Mill 4-H has contributed over 750 hours of youth development, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the community.
Looking Forward
Fort Mill 4-H is more than a club — it’s a launching pad for future leaders, innovators, and community advocates. With continued support and engagement, this thriving club will keep inspiring youth to grow their skills, confidence, and commitment to making a difference.
Kristin Kunde
York County 4-H Agent Cooperative Extension Clemson University
As the school year comes to a close, York County 4-H is excited to celebrate a fantastic year of growth and learning through our Afterschool Clubs. This year, over 350 youth across York County engaged in hands-on 4-H programming, discovering new skills, exploring agriculture, and building confidence in safe, supportive environments.
Our clubs reached students at the following schools:
Bethany Elementary
Bethel Elementary
Clover Middle School (6th–8th grade)
Ebinport Elementary
Griggs Road Elementary
Herald C Johnson Elementary
Hickory Grove Sharon Elementary
Larne Elementary
Lesslie Elementary
Midway Christian Academy
Mt. Holly Elementary
Riverwalk Academy (3rd–8th grade)
Celebrating Success Across York County
At Bethany Elementary, the Bethany Buds After School Club wrapped up their year with a “MOO-velous” celebration focused on dairy cattle. Thanks to Stacie and Hallie Jean Harris for bringing Piper the cow and teaching our youth about showing dairy cattle! Appreciation also goes to Ms. Guerin for supporting all our “crazy plans,” the dedicated parents who support 4-H, volunteers who stay after school every month, and Crossroads Cafe at McGill’s for treating everyone to ice cream.
Meanwhile, at Mount Holly Elementary, our 4-H club closed the year with an energetic “Ag Olympics.” Students competed in farm-themed relay races, celebrating teamwork and healthy competition. This event was made possible by the wonderful support of Ms. Ramsey, Agriculture Teacher at ATC, and two graduating ATC seniors who helped run the activities. It was a fun and fitting finale to a year filled with growth.
Across all schools, youth have engaged in diverse projects — from gardening and raising animals to crafts and nutrition lessons — designed to spark curiosity and build life skills like leadership, responsibility, and public speaking.
The Power of Community
None of this would be possible without the incredible support of our 4-H volunteers, parents, teachers, and community partners. Their commitment helps create meaningful experiences that inspire our young people to explore their interests, try new things, and develop into confident leaders.
As we celebrate this year’s accomplishments, we are also looking forward to the future. York County 4-H Afterschool Clubs expect continued growth, fueled by strong community support and exciting new opportunities on the horizon.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this year a success — we can’t wait to continue nurturing the next generation of leaders through 4-H!
Kristin Kunde
York County 4-H Agent Cooperative Extension Clemson University
Caroline Crooke’s journey from a passionate high school athlete to a collegiate competitor is a testament to dedication, skill, and community support. As a member of a local clay target team, Caroline honed her shooting abilities and passion for the sport. Her commitment led her to join the York County 4-H Hotshots, where she further developed her skills and leadership qualities. Through these experiences, Caroline has exemplified the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
Now, as she prepares to join the Clemson Shotgun Team in Fall 2025, Caroline’s story inspires young athletes across York County. Her journey highlights the opportunities available through local programs which provide youth with the resources and mentorship to pursue their passions. Caroline’s success underscores the importance of community involvement and the impact of supportive programs in shaping the futures of young athletes.
Caroline plans to major in Animal and Veterinary Sciences at Clemson, aligning perfectly with her interests in agriculture and animal care—interests that have been further nurtured through her 4-H experiences. Whether she’s competing on the range or preparing for a future in animal sciences, Caroline continues to make York County proud.
Her journey is a powerful example of what’s possible when young people are encouraged to explore their interests, set ambitious goals, and grow through meaningful programs like 4-H. We couldn’t be more proud to cheer her on as she takes this next exciting step.
We look forward to seeing Caroline represent both York County and Clemson University on the national stage and wish her continued success in her collegiate shooting career.
Congratulations, Caroline—we’ll be rooting for you every step of the way!
Kristin Kunde
York County 4-H Agent Cooperative Extension Clemson University
York County 4-H is celebrating a major milestone—we’ve officially enrolled over 600 youth for the 2024–2025 4-H year! This exciting benchmark represents more than just a number. It’s a sign of a thriving, diverse program that’s capturing the hearts and curiosity of young people across the county.
2025 York County 4-H Rabbit Special Interest Club Meeting
Behind each enrollment is a young person eager to learn, lead, and grow—whether through hands-on STEM projects, caring for livestock, building life skills through leadership, or exploring new creative outlets. And it’s not just our traditional clubs that are growing. New opportunities like leathercraft, sewing, and grill masters have helped draw in fresh energy and enthusiasm from youth and families looking to connect, create, and contribute.
York County 4-Her shares about his 5th grade accomplishments including his competitions on the 4-H HotShots Shooting Sports Team.
This momentum didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of dedicated volunteers, strong community partnerships, and a shared belief in the power of positive youth development. With 30 clubs already active across the county, we’re seeing more families stepping forward to start new clubs and more teens rising to leadership roles than ever before.
And this is only the beginning.
Over the next year or two, York County 4-H is poised for even greater growth with the future addition of the Western York County Agriculture Arena. This facility will serve as a hub for agricultural education, hands-on learning experiences, and community events. It will expand our capacity to host shows, clinics, and trainings while opening doors for even more youth to participate in agriculture-based programs—especially those who may not otherwise have access.
As our membership grows, so does our commitment to delivering high-quality, meaningful programs to every corner of York County. Whether a child dreams of becoming a scientist, a public speaker, an artist, or a farmer, there’s a place for them in 4-H. And with over 600 enrolled and more knocking at the door, the future of York County 4-H is brighter than ever.
4-H Afterschool Club at Bethany Elementary enjoys an ice cream treats served by Crossroads Cafe at McGill’s.
If you’ve ever considered joining 4-H, volunteering, or starting a club in your community—now is the time. We can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds, and we hope you’ll be part of it.
Kristin Kunde
York County 4-H Agent Cooperative Extension Clemson University
