Policies and procedures

Section 6: Competitive Event Definition and Criteria

6.1 Definition of Competitive Event

A 4-H competitive event is one in which 4-H members compete individually or as teams for special recognition. The 4-H Name and emblem are used to name and promote the event. The term “event” is used for 4-H divisions/classes and activities that are part of a larger program, which includes non-4-H competitive events, as well as those events exclusively 4-H. 4-H competitive events include judging contests, presentations, project exhibits and other performance events open to 4-H members. When competition is a major part of an event, it must be understood that competition is secondary to the education and development of youth.

6.2 criteria for Competitive Event

Criteria for competitive events in 4-H include:

• Sponsored/co-sponsored and/or conducted by Purdue University Extension Professionals and/or approved 4-H Volunteers (adult and youth volunteers).
• Approved by and/or conducted by Extension staff responsible for the event.
• Rules and regulations established by or approved by Extension staff responsible for the event.
• Open to participation by 4-H members from county, group of counties, district, state, region, or nation.
• Participants must be enrolled in 4-H during the current 4-H year.
• Approval has been obtained to use the 4-H name and emblem.
• Utilize the 4-H name and emblem in promotion and recruitment.
• Provide a safe and healthy environment with a positive educational experience for youth.