4-H FAQs 4-H

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4-H Answers

  • What is 4-H?
    4-H is an informal, practical educational program for youth. 4-H is a community of young people learning leadership, citizenship, and life skills.  4-H is the youth development program of Florida Cooperative Extension, a part of the University of Florida IFAS. The goal of 4-H is to develop life skills in youth through various projects and programs. Back to top  
  • What is the mission of 4-H?
    The 4-H mission is to empower youth to reach their fullest potential working and learning in partnership with adults.  The Pinellas County 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. Back to top 
  • Isn’t 4-H just for kids who live on farms?
    No! 4-H is for all youth, wherever they live - on farms, in suburbs, in cities. In fact, Pinellas County, has one of the largest 4-H programs in the state.  4-H serves youth from all backgrounds and interests. It reaches boys and girls ages 5-18 through 4-H clubs, special-interest groups and short-term projects, after school programs, volunteering, civic engagement, community service grants, camping, and school enrichment. 4-H offers membership without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, gender, disability, or handicap. Back to top 
  • What is a 4-H club?
    4-H club is a group of five or more youngsters guided by one or more adult volunteer leaders. A club can be any size—from a small group of kids from one neighborhood to a larger club consisting of youth from all over the county. Back to top 
  • Where does 4-H get its funding?
    Florida Cooperative Extension, of which 4-H is a part, receives funds from a cooperative partnership of three levels of government: federal (via the Science and Education Administration of the US Department of Agriculture), state (via the University of Florida), and county (through the county Board of Commissioners). 4-H also receives support from private sources and grants. Back to top 
  • What age must you be to join 4-H?
    Youth, ages 5-18, can be 4-H members and enroll in many different 4-H projects. Members 8-18 may exhibit their completed work to be judged for awards. Youth, ages 5-7, can be 4-H Cloverbud members. There are also many opportunities for teens to develop leadership skills through peer-to-peer mentoring and youth-adult partnerships.  Back to top 
  • Does it cost money to join 4-H?
    There is a $10 membership fee for each child. Uniforms are not required. Most 4-H project information, activities, and events are available at cost, which is usually minimal. If you participate in a 4-H club they chose whether to charge dues. Back to top 
  • How did 4-H originate?
    4-H clubs were first known as corn clubs for boys and canning clubs for girls, organized early in this century by public school educators who wanted to broaden the knowledge and experience of their students. 4-H in Florida began in 1909 in several counties in north Florida.  4-H became an official part of the Cooperative Extension Service, along with agriculture and home economics, at about the time Cooperative Extension was officially established by the US Congress in 1914. The term “4-H Club” first appeared in a federal document in 1918, and by the mid- 1920s, 4-H was well on its way to becoming a significant national program for youth. 4-H is an American idea that has spread around the world. Throughout its long history, 4-H has constantly adapted to the ever-changing needs and interests of youth.  In Pinellas County there are 12 major programs, including clubs, that youth can become involved.  Back to top 
  • Who “runs” the 4-H program?
    Volunteers are the key to providing 4-H programs for youth. Capable, interested adult volunteers are always needed to help lead and assist with 4-H activities. Orientation and training is provided, so no previous experience is necessary.  Pinellas County 4-H volunteers are supported by a professional staff, including a 4-H Program Leader, two 4-H Agents, 4-H Educational Instructors, and 4-H Mentors.  4-H Mentors are paid youth staff who provided peer-to-peer mentorship and leadership in the 4-H program.  State and national 4-H personnel assist county 4-H professionals. There are also various county 4-H support and advisory groups made up of interested adult volunteers. Back to top 
  • What do the four ‘H’s on the 4-H emblem stand for?
    The 4-H emblem is a green four-leaf clover with a white ‘H’ on each leaflet, symbolizing Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. The 4-H emblem was protected by an Act of Congress in 1924. Back to top 
  • What is the 4-H Pledge?
    I pledge . . .
    My HEAD to clearer thinking,
    My HEART to greater loyalty,
    My HANDS to larger service,
    My HEALTH to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world. Back to top 
  • What is the 4-H motto?
    “To Make the Best Better.” Back to top

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