October 2nd – 8th is National 4-H Week, and this provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about the largest out-of-school youth development program in Montana. 4-H is an Extension program that gives kids the chance to learn-by-doing in a positive environment with adult mentors to guide them. It is unique in that members direct their own 4-H path, choosing what projects they become involved in based on interest and skill. While rural involvement is huge, 4-H isn’t just for those families with room for chickens and cattle; in fact, suburban and urban involvement is growing as more people learn about the lasting benefits of 4-H involvement.
The 4-H pledge reads: 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.
There are nearly 20,000 youth members involved in 4-H in all 56 counties in the state; the program combines practical skills with hands-on learning and volunteerism, teaching kids how to set and meet goals and giving them a chance to demonstrate the skills they’ve learned at 4-H events. Montana 4-H instills in its members an attitude of ‘if you can dream it, you can do it,” and there are more than 200 different projects members can choose from including arts and crafts, foods and nutrition, science and technology, dog agility, horticulture, livestock management, robotics, wood working, and so much more. 4-H gives its members an opportunity to try new interests and determine where they can truly invest themselves, all while having fun.
4-H clubs usually meet once a month and give members a chance to share the work they’ve done on their individual projects, work together to plan community service activities, and gives them experience in organizing and running the meeting itself.
4-Hers are 4 times more likely to give back to their communities and 2 times more likely to make healthier choices as adults. The leadership skills they develop in their youth will be carried with them throughout their lives.
Sign-ups for the 2016/2017 4-H year are during the month of October. Anyone with questions or who would like to sign up can contact Richland County 4-H Agent, Josie Evenson at 406-433-1206 or stop by the Richland County Extension Office at 1499 North Central Ave in Sidney. Those looking for more information can also go to http://www.msuextension.org/richland/4h.html.
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