4-H is the nation’s largest youth development and empowerment organization. Fueled by research-based, university-backed curriculum, 4-H members engage in hands-on learning in the areas for science, healthy living, and food safety.
Boulder County 4-H has 25 clubs with more than 500 members and 200 volunteers! Whether you live in an urban, suburban or rural area, or are interested in animals, shooting sports, cooking, or robotics, we have something for you! Use the links below to check out special programs and find out how to enroll in 4-H.
4-H provides a unique environment where youth can try new things, make new friends and discover new possibilities. Through 4-H, your child will explore leadership, teamwork, citizenship and community service. The values and skills that youth gain as a 4-Her will help them become their best selves today and in the future.
4-H gives youth the chance to discover what they want to do and who they want to be, to connect with others in a supporting environment and to take action to make the world a better place. There is something for everyone in 4-H with projects ranging from hands-on science to art activities to exploring the outdoors and their own community. Projects are hands-on to engage youth to expand their knowledge and life skills.
Clubs are available across the county. You will see that different clubs focus on different projects and meet on a variety of schedules. Please contact the leader of the club you are interested in and go to a meeting. Visit several and choose the one that best fits your schedule and needs. Sometimes, the best club for you is not the closest. Of you have trouble contacting a leader/or would like information on starting your own 4-H club, please contact the Extension office (303) 678-6238.
Leaders have enrollment information, so you can sign up directly with them. They are also very knowledgeable about the program and details of the projects. We suggest signing up for only one or two projects during the first year until you get comfortable with the 4-H program.
Often, the first step to joining 4-H is to Find a Local Club.
Beyond the club level, there are a variety of county, state, national and international opportunities/events. To name a few, 4-H offers:
- County 4-H Youth Council – Youth and adults work together to provide input and leadership on county 4-H events
- County & State Fair – competitive events where members’ projects are judged
- 4-H National Trips & Statewide Camps – National trips include Citizen Washington Focus, 4-H Congress, National 4-H Roundup. Statewide camps include Leadership Development Conference, Colorado Leadership Camp, State 4-H Conference.
- International 4-H Exchange Program – Opportunities may include Australia, Finland, Germany and Japan
- National 4-H Program
Special 4-H Programs in Boulder County
- Cloverbud Project & Club (children 5 – 7 years old)
- Lease-An-Animal (members who can’t keep livestock)
- School Enrichment & 4-H Outreach
- STEM/STEAM 4-H promotes 1 million new scientists!
