Frequently Asked Questions about the 4-H Club program in Suffolk County
What is a 4-H Club?
A 4-H club is a small group of boys and/or girls who meet regularly to work on 4-H projects, perform community service, develop leadership skills and learn to work together.
What do the four H's stand for?
The H's represent HEAD (develop problem-solving techniques), HEART (learn to reach out to others), HANDS (improve or acquire new skills), HEALTH (discover an all over well being for self).
What is the age for club membership?
Boys and girls participate in either the Cloverbud Club Program (for 5-8 year olds) or the Traditional Club Program (for 9-19 year olds).
How many members are in a 4-H club?
Most 4-H clubs have 5-8 members.
When and where do 4-H Clubs meet?
Each club sets its own meeting time and place. Clubs can meet every week or every other week; right after school, in the evening or on weekends. Some clubs meet in leaders' homes on a rotating basis; other clubs utilize school, church, or community facilities.
Who provides leadership?
The leadership of a 4-H club is shared by the parents of its members and other adults. Each parent is responsible for a minimum of 3 meetings per year.
How much does it cost to be in 4-H?
An enrollment fee of $25 per member per year covers the cost of project curriculum guides, 4-H insurance and 4-H newsletters. There is an additional $10 activity fee for our 4-H Achievement Day and other events throughout the year. There is no fee for leaders. Dues needed to cover the cost of supplies are set by each club and fund-raising efforts help cover the cost of special club trips and events.
What is a 4-H project?
4-H projects provide age-appropriate hands-on learning for members to develop skills and discover information. Written project curriculum is available in many subject areas: Animal Science, Clothing & Textiles, Food & Nutrition, Indoor & Outdoor Gardening, Mechanical Science, Home Environment, Nature Science, Consumer Education, and Leadership & Personal Development.
How do 4-H leaders know what to do?
A 4-H staff member will help the group get started, guide leaders in project selection and provide continuing support. Cornell Cooperative Extension Educators, 4-H staff and experienced 4-H leaders provide information and hands-on techniques at leader training workshops.
What about fund raising?
We sell pet treats at some of our special events throughout the year and hold a Barn Dance in the summer. Some clubs do fundraising projects on their own to pay their activity fees.
How do we get involved in 4-H?
For more information, call Cornell Cooperative Extension's 4-H Youth Development office at (631) 852-4602.
