What is Leon County 4-H

Florida 4-H is the youth development program of Florida Cooperative Extension, a part of the University of Florida/IFAS. The Florida 4-H Youth Development Program uses a learn-by-doing approach and caring adults to help youth gain the knowledge and life skills they need to be productive, responsible citizens. To achieve its mission, 4-H accesses the expertise and resources of the University of Florida and a nationwide network of Cooperative Extension Service faculty and staff. Florida 4-H aspires to be the leading youth development program that creates positive change in youth, families, and communities in the Sunshine State and beyond.

4-H IMPACT

4-H is the only youth development program with direct access to technological advances from university research. According to the Tuft's 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development:

4-H FOR ALL

4-H aims to meet the needs and interests of a wide variety of youth. UF/IFAS Extension 4-H Youth Development programs are offered to all youth ages 5–18 on an age-appropriate basis, without regard to race, creed, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, or political opinions or affiliations.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is 4-H's mission

  The UF/IFAS Extension 4-H Youth Development program uses a learn-by-doing approach to enable youth to develop the knowledge, attitudes, and skills they need to become competent, caring, and contributing citizens of the world. This mission is accomplished by using the knowledge and resources of the land grant university system, along with the involvement of caring adults.

• What do the 4-H's Stand for?

  The 4-H emblem is one of the most recognized logos in America. It has proudly represented America’s largest youth organization for decades, and should always be presented and used in a respectful way. The emblem represents a standard of quality in youth development which is experiential in nature, meaning that young people learn all kinds of things through 4-H in a hands-on way.

  Head – Mental Development

  • Deeper knowledge and reasoning

  Heart – Emotional Development.

  • Developing interest, appreciation, and wholesome attitudes.

  Hands – Skills Development.

  • Ability to do, skill in doing, and habit of doing.

  Health – Physical Development.

  • Understanding and appreciating a growing and changing body.
• What is the 4-H motto, the slogan, and the pledge?

  Motto: To Make the Best Better

  Slogan: Learn By Doing

  Pledge: 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 county and my world.

• What type of educational programs are available?

  The educational foundation of 4-H lies in three primary program areas: Civic Engagement, Science & Technology, and Healthy Living. These program areas underline the foundational objectives of Extension pertaining to community leadership, enhancement of quality of life, and technology transfer. 

  Programming is delivered through: 

  • Community Clubs
  • Summer Day Camps
  • School Enrichment 
  • County Level Workshops
  • District, State, and National Events and Competitions
• Who can join 4-H?

  Florida 4-H is open to all youth, ages 5-18, determined as of September 1 of the current 4-H program year. Florida 4-H serves youth from all backgrounds and interests. It reaches youth through 4-H clubs, school enrichment, and other educational programs. Learn more about our Youth Programs. 

• Does it cost money to join 4-H?

  Florida 4-H membership fees are $20 per youth ages 8 and up (as of September 1st). We strongly believe that every child deserves to pursue their passions and talents, regardless of their financial situation. Scholarships are available upon request for any 4-H event (clubs, workshops, summer camps, state events etc.). 

• Age Divisions

  Age of youth is determined by the age as of September 1st of the 4-H year.

  • Cloverbud: 5-7 years old
  • Junior: 8-10 years old
  • Intermediate: 11-13 years old
  • Senior: 14-18 years old
• How can my child join a 4-H Club?
  1. Take a look at the Leon 4-H Club Directory
  2. Contact the Leon County 4-H Team at leon4h@ifas.ufl.edu or (850) 606-5204.
  3. The Leon County 4-H Team will put you in contact with Club contact to schedule a visit. 
  4. Once you have attended a club meeting and have decide to join, contact our office and we will help you register in 4-H Online. There is an annual 4-H membership fee of $20. Scholarships are available upon request.
• I want to be a volunteer

  Volunteer leaders are the heart of the 4-H program. Volunteers complete a volunteer application, youth protection training, and volunteer orientation before they become active. Additionally, volunteers receive training in skills they will need to become successful 4-H volunteers. Interested in becoming a 4-H volunteer? Visit our Volunteer Page to learn more.