What is 4-H?

4-H is a non-formal, educational youth development program for kids age 5-18. Programs are open to all without discrimination. 4-H programing uses the experiential learning model. In 4-H youth learn by doing. In addition to it’s teaching style, 4-H is best identified by its green four-leaf clover with an H on each leaf. The four H’s on the emblem stand for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. All 4-H programs focus on active involvement and quality experiences which stimulate lifelong learning of values and skills.

More information about Colorado State 4-H can be found at The Colorado 4-H website and under “Member Resources.”

Contact the Grand County 4-H office at (970)724-3436.

Why should I be interested in 4-H?

As a 4-H member you get to “Learn by Doing” and meet new friends that share your interests. You can participate in projects where you make something, develop a skill, raise and/or train an animal, or join a virtual club with youth from anywhere in the world! There are numerous projects available to you including foods, clothing, shooting sports, models, aerospace, wood science and livestock.

You begin the 4-H journey by reading and researching your interests. Then select one or more projects and receive a project manual which guides you through the activities. Youth should pick projects that are appropriate for the youth’s age, abilities, and interests. As a 4-H member, you decide what you want to learn and do as you explore your project. This allows you to move at your own pace while learning the important skills of setting and working toward goals.

Clubs generally meet once a month on a regular schedule. During meetings you learn how to accomplish the goals of your projects, how to run a business meeting, and how to do demonstrations about your projects. The clubs may plan recreational activities, community service projects, fundraisers and field trips.

Regular 4-H members are ages 8-18, but youth ages 5-7 may be active in our 4-H clubs as a Cloverbud member. We connect Cloverbud members with local clubs that they will work with in the future. For more information see our Cloverbuds page.

What should I consider when signing up?

4-H enrollment is through 4honline. However, there are a few things you’ll want to decide first.

1) What club will your family enroll in? There are currently seven clubs in Grand county, and you’ll need to choose one from the list below. Feel free to call any of the leaders on the list to discuss meeting times, locations, club requirements, etc. All projects are available in all clubs, so only select one club for your family.

2) What project(s) is your child interested in? A complete list of 4-H projects can be found here. However, if your child has an interest in a topic not on the list, just ask us! 4-H members can take as many projects as they’d like, but it’s a good idea to ease into it the first year. We recommend new members select 1-2 projects their first year. If your child decides to add or drop a project the deadline to do so is April 1st.

3) Are you able to commit to the completion requirements? Members must complete both county and club requirements. County requirements are as follows:

• Attend six club meetings
• Perform at least one demonstration
• Exhibit each project (usually at the county fair)
• Complete a record book on time for each project
• Complete a community service project.

A 4-H club may have additional requirements, such as a fundraiser or attendance at another event, so it’s a good idea to ask the club leader what they require. Once you’ve decided these things, go ahead and get started with your registration. If you need help selecting a club or would like more information on projects, contact us.

For more information, see the step by Step guide to signing up in 4honline.

Adults – Become a 4-H Volunteer!

You do not need to be an expert in any field, you just need to be willing to share your time and experience in helping youth as a positive mentor and role model. Adult volunteer leaders help coordinate meetings, programs, events and help chaperone. They assist youth with projects, record keeping, and more. Have a favorite hobby? You can help a 4-H member learn a new skill. The 4-H program could not exist without the support of adult volunteers by the millions, around the world. 

Thank-you to all who volunteer!