4-H is a national organization which helps young people develop life-long knowledge and skills to become engaged citizens. Through 4-H, youth are also taught how to meet the diversities and challenges of today’s society by bringing together youth and adults to design programs that will teach skills for living. 4-H is truly a model of the “learning by doing” teaching concept. It reaches people in their own communities with delivery methods suitable to their needs. 4-H also helps to provide opportunities for families and communities to develop stronger bonds. The 4-H program is a voluntary, non-formal, educational program offered to all youth regardless of race, color, national origin, residence, or handicap. The Texas 4-H and Youth Development Program is conducted by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, which is a part of the Texas A&M System. County and district 4-H programs are directed by Extension staff who also provide
training and support to adult volunteers who work with 4-H members. The Texas 4-H and Youth Development Program serves youth in all 254 counties in Texas. Young people in 4-H learn about citizenship, leadership, foods and nutrition, healthy lifestyles, veterninary science, mechanics and technology, horticulture, agriculture, and other subjects. To teach young people about these subjects, the 4-H program uses the learn-by-doing method of instruction. The 4-H project that each member selects according to their interest and ability is the program’s cornerstone. Projects involve setting goals and evaluating progress. The skills and knowledge learned in 4-H project work help members become more engaged individuals and citizens. Because of the educational concepts and methods developed by the early leaders of 4-H, the 4-H program has thrived for more than 100 years in Texas. 4-H continues to grow in Texas, expanding to serve those in the military, with emergency disasters, and where the support of youth are needed.
How do you join 4-H?
Call your Hopkins county office of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension at 903-885-3443. We can tell you what to do, or you can find our website at hopkins.agrilife.org .We have plan a parent informational meeting September 4 at 6:00 PM at the Hopkins County Extension Office located at 1200B Houston Street in Sulphur Springs.
How much does it cost?
4-H has a participation costs of $20 (before November 1st of each year) to $25 (November 1st and after) to join. Some projects might cost something to get started—like, if you want to do photography, you’ll need a camera and money to get pictures printed.
Does it matter where you live?
4-H has things everybody can do, in the city or the country or anywhere in between. You can find 4-H in every county in Texas!
How old do you have to be?
4-H is for kids of almost any age. If you’re in kindergarten, first grade, or second grade, you can be in Clover Kids. From third grade to age 19, you can be in 4-H.
What about your parents or guardians?
Your parents don’t have to become 4-H leaders/volunteers when you join 4-H, but there are lots of ways they can help. They can lead special projects, drive 4-H’ers to activities, make refreshments for meetings,
and much more! In fact, your whole family can be part of a lot of 4-H activities!
Who are 4-H volunteers?
4-H Volunteers are people who care about the kids and who supervise activities. They are carefully screened and trained to make sure that 4-H’ers are safe. Form more information contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 and ask for Mario or Johanna.
http://www.myssnews.com/images/stories/mugs/MarioVillarino.jpg
Mario Villarino DVM, Ph.D.
Hopkins County Extension Agent for Ag and NR
1200B Houston Street
Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482
903-885-3443
