4-H Youth Development
4-H is the largest youth organization worldwide, reaching all 50 states and 80 countries.
Members have fun and make new friends while gaining leadership, citizenship and useful life skills through a wide variety of projects.
Skilled, caring adult volunteer leaders provide guidance and ensure a safe learning environment.
We invite you to become a member of the 4-H family. View the New 4-H Family Handbook (PDF) and Idaho 4-H Policies and Procedures to get started.
Eligibility
4-H is open year-round to youth ages 5 to 18 without regard to race, creed, gender, marital status, handicaps or disadvantages, economic or ethnic backgrounds.
Participants ages 8 to 18 are eligible for all 4-H programs, including competitive activities and events. Ages 5 to 7 are eligible to participate in Cloverbuds.
Individuals older than 18 who have special needs are eligible if they are still enrolled in high school.
4-H age is the age of the individual on Jan. 1 of the current 4-H year (which runs from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30).
Enrollment
Individuals can enroll at any time, but are encouraged to enroll between Oct. 1 and Jan. 10 so they can fully participate in all activities and events for that year.
The following information provides step-by-step instructions on how to enroll (or re-enroll) in our 4-H program.
Fees
There is a nominal annual fee that helps cover the cost of project curriculum, accident insurance, resource materials, related mailings and state participation fees.
The current annual base fees for 1-3 projects are:
- Cloverbuds: $25
- Regular members: $25
- Horse and ATV members: $27
There is a $3 per project fee for youth participating in more than three projects.
Awards/Recognition
While the 4-H program focuses on helping youth and adults gain valuable life skills through active involvement in citizenship, leadership and project-related involvement at all levels, the following options provide incentives that encourage youth and adults to excel.
Volunteer Awards
- Distinguished Service Award (DSA)
- Leader of the Year
Youth Awards
- Idaho Key Award
- Outstanding Member Award
