It’s widely known that 4-H kids raise farm animals for the state fair, sew aprons, bake cookies, and grow produce and flowers. In the early days, the club only operated in rural areas. But 4-H isn’t just for farm kids; there are opportunities for every child in Snohomish County.
Starting in the early 1900’s, small groups began to spring up around the country. These programs run by universities began as a way to educate rural children about farming and fill in educational gaps that weren’t being taught in schools. The clubs weren’t connected yet; they had names such as the tomato club, corn club, or canning club. In 1910, the 4-H clover was born on a pin, and the clubs merged, becoming known as 4-H.
The 4-H model began with an approach to hands-on learning and real-world skills that are still practiced today. Focusing on children’s personal growth, the development of life skills learned through projects, and teaching children to become self-confident, productive members of society.
“Urban expansion came in the 1960s and 70s, often through schools, after-school programs, and neighborhood partnerships,” says Ashley Hall, associate professor at WSU and 4-H faculty member. “Today you will find 4-H in schools, after-school programs, on military bases, in community clubs, and in cities just as much as in the country.”
4-H Pledge
I pledge my head for clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, and my health to better living for my club, my community, my country and my world.
The Largest Youth Development Organization in the Nation
Backed by the USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), 4-H is the largest youth development organization in the nation. It is open to kids across the world; 4-H has over six million members in 82 countries.
Snohomish County 4-H programs are broken down into 6 main categories.
- Animal Science
- Engineering and Technology
- Expressive Arts
- Family and Plant Sciences
- Environmental Stewardship and Exploration
- Shooting Sports
“The variety is my favorite part,” says Hall of the 4-H program. “Our equine members compete at the national level every year; our robotics youth design and build machines they take to local and regional contests. We have programs in beekeeping, needlework, gardening, and dog training. Shooting sports members learn archery, rifle, and shotgun. Our youth lead community advocacy on safe firearm storage, and our Teens Helping Teens group educates the community on mental health. Stop by the county fair this year, and you will see all of it, including the guinea pig costume contest.”
Public Presentations
Every year, workshops are offered teaching children how to deliver public presentations. These programs teach important communication skills, public speaking, how to build presentations, and organize thoughts and information.
Hall tells the story of a recent teenager who gave a speech on the challenges of mental health. Her presentation was so compelling and well researched that a man in the audience mistook her for an expert in the field.
Goal Setting and Record Keeping
In this unit, kids keep a clear record of their progress and findings. They set obtainable goals and are rewarded by heightened self-confidence and life skills. Through this process, kids learn how to achieve large goals through small steps, responsibility, and critical thinking.
Leadership in 4-H
Teenagers can take on leadership positions, including a teen ambassador program and participation in the 4-H Council. Leadership events and a program called Know Your Government teach civic education to high school students.
Join the Club!
Open enrollment begins on October 1, with a $30 enrollment fee.
Hall recommends emailing the organization first. “The fastest path for a family is to email us at snoco.4h@wsu.edu. We will ask about the ages and interests of their youth and send them straight to the right club leaders,” says Hall.
4-H is for any child 5 years old by October 1 of the current year. And teens who are still 18 by October 1.
- Cloverbud ages 5-7
- Junior 8-10
- Intermediate 11-13
- Senior 14-19
The 4-H organization is run entirely by volunteers.
“We are ALWAYS looking for volunteers,” says Hall. “Many parents start by helping out in their local club, but there are other options! If you have a skill or a talent that you want to share with youth, we can connect you up with a club to do that! Do you love engineering, beekeeping, photography, sewing, etc., etc., etc.? Reach out to Beth Wangen, beth.wangen@wsu.edu, and she can talk with you and find a place for you in our program. Keep in mind, you will need to complete an application, interview, reference checks, background check, and some training to become a certified volunteer. I promise, the work is worth it!”
For questions, reach the Snohomish County 4-H office at 425.357.6044 or snoco.4h@wsu.edu.
Additional 4-H and enrollment information can be found at 4-H Youth Development Program | Snohomish County | Washington State University and Join 4-H | Snohomish County | Washington State University.
