View this video to learn more about Minnesota 4-H, Extension and the commitment to youth:
Discover Clay County 4-H!
What is 4-H?
4-H is a youth development program that offers hands-on learning experiences in a variety of ways such as online, in small groups, and independently. In 4-H youth can choose a topic they find interesting and receive support from staff and adult mentors to aid their learning. 4-H is family-focused--parents/guardians and their entire families are encouraged to participate. In order to participate in 4-H, youth must enroll and become a member of Minnesota 4-H. There is no cost to enroll in Minnesota 4-H.
Who is 4-H for?
Youth in grades K through 13 are welcome to join as well as their adults. 4-H is open to ALL no matter where you live, one common misconception is that you have to live on a farm or have animals to participate! Cloverbud activities promote creativity and discovery without emphasis on competition. Youth in grades 3 through 13 can participate in 4-H competitive activities like the county fair and project contests.
View this video to learn more about Cloverbuds:
What is a 4-H project?
A project is a topic area of interest that youth learn about (i.e. photography, science, goats, etc.). In 4-H we believe that youth learn best by doing. That's why all 4-H'ers do hands-on projects in areas like science, health, agriculture, and civic engagement. Given a positive learning environment and guidance, youth are encouraged to take leadership roles while concentrating on one project area or trying out as many as they like. Minnesota 4-H has more than 60 project areas to choose from so have fun diving into all the different project areas!
View this video to learn more about project learning:
Clay County has community clubs that meet all over the county.
When you start 4-H, your family will select a club to join or also have the option of starting a brand new club. Families can join as an “independent member” which means you are not attached to a particular club but can access all other 4-H programs. In addition, there are many opportunities at the county and state levels.
Are you starting your own club?
Anyone can start a club! Prior 4-H experience is not necessary. If you have three families total and are interested in starting a brand new club, contact the 4-H office, and the Local Extension Educator will set up an orientation meeting with you. Most clubs in Clay County have shared leadership meaning the duties are split between leaders. This model seems to work well but of course, you can choose what will work best for your club.
Are you interested in joining an existing club?
Find out more about the available clubs in Clay County 4-H
How do I choose?
Typically clubs meet in person every month.
- Most people look for a club that is close to home or meets on a convenient date/time for their family. The majority of clubs don’t have a specific project focus, meaning whichever club you choose you can explore things that will be of interest to you!
- Shop around! You can engage with as many clubs as you like before you choose one. Feel free to visit as many club gatherings or events as you find the right fit.
- You can enroll as a member before you settle on a club. Just choose "Undecided" when you enroll. Once you have chosen a club contact the Extension Office and we can help switch your enrollment to the club of your choosing!
Are you interested in joining as an independent member?
You can join as an “independent member”. This means you are not attached to a particular club but can access all other 4-H programs on the county, state, and national levels. We do recommend that families join a club as it provides the best 4-H experience and a place where you can connect with other families & build relationships. However, independent members can still have a great experience in the program as well. You can start as an independent member and join a club at any time if you wish.
View this video to learn more about clubs:
We are so excited that you are ready to join 4-H! Be sure you have read through the club and project sections as you will need to select these when you complete your enrollment. You can make changes to your selections at anytime.
Enroll
- Before your first event or county activity you must sign up for 4-H at 4-H Online 2.0. Enrollment starts in the fall but members can join anytime during the year.
- You will have access to 4-H Online with the username and password you create and you can go in and change your information at any time.
View this video to learn more:
Contact your club leader
After enrolling, be sure to reach out to the leader of the club you have chosen. Use this Contact List. Contacting the club leader will let them know you have joined and want to be added to their email list. This is a great way to stay up to date with all the club's gatherings and events.
Clay County 4-H wants you to have a great experience--we are committed to helping your family have a fun and successful year!
- Take part in 4-H club meetings.
- The more a youth is involved in 4-H, the more they get from the experience. As they get older, they can expand their experience by volunteering to help or sharing their knowledge and skills.
- Download the Minnesota 4-H App
- Downloading the app is easy, go into your app store, search for Minnesota 4-H, and download the app. Once you have the app downloaded, choose Clay County and you will be connected with all the current information, guides, programs, events, schedules, social media, and more!
- Apple users: App Store
- Droid users: Google Play
- Downloading the app is easy, go into your app store, search for Minnesota 4-H, and download the app. Once you have the app downloaded, choose Clay County and you will be connected with all the current information, guides, programs, events, schedules, social media, and more!
- Ask questions! Please contact your club leader or our office with any questions.
- Follow us on Social Media
- Add our Google Member Calendar to your personal calendar