4-H History
4-H began over 100 years ago and has grown into the largest youth development program in the nation. 4-H prepares young people to be leaders in their communities and around the world through hands-on learning.
4-H focuses on research-based programming that is delivered by the U.S.'s 109 land-grant universities and the Cooperative Extension Service - reaching every corner of our nation. Altogether, 4-H impacts over 6 million youth, 540.000 adult volunteers, 3500 professionals, and 60 million alumni!
LAPORTE COUNTY 4-H TODAY
In Indiana, 4-H is delivered in all 92 counties through Purdue University Cooperative Extension Services (Purdue Extension).
LaPorte County has a diverse 4-H program that meets the interests of our young people. We have thirty-two 4-H clubs led by passionate 4-H adult volunteers. In addition to club and project activities, LaPorte County offers local, state, and national 4-H program opportunities.
4-H Basics
Timeline:
4-H is year-round. Enrollment begins in October. From October through June, young people work on projects and learn valuable skills both with local community clubs and independently. In July, members can exhibit projects at the LaPorte County Fair. Exhibiting at the Fair is optional, but if young people are interested in competing at the Indiana State Fair, they must first exhibit their projects at the county level.
You may join in 4-H at any time during the program year by enrolling in the program through 4-H Online. All members, Mini 4-H members, and volunteers must re-enroll in 4-H Online each year, starting on October 1.
Activities:
Members attend monthly club meetings, complete community service, work on projects, and participate in social and/or educational events hosted by clubs or the LaPorte County Extension office.
Benefits:
4-H is FUN! Members make new friends, experience new things, participate in leadership roles, and learn hands-on skills through projects like photography, gardening, dog agility, and much more!
Cost:
Enrollment fees are $15 per year for members. Families enrolling more than three young people (grades 3 -12) receive a discount. Enrollment fees are $5 for Mini 4-H.
GETTING STARTED:
First, enroll in Indiana 4-H. Then find a club near you to join. Contact club leaders for more information about available projects and the ages of members. Ask to try out a meeting as a guest. For more assistance, contact us to guide you through the process.
4-H Mission:
The Indiana 4-H Youth Development mission is to provide real-life educational opportunities that develop young people who positively impact their community and world
4-H Vision:
Indiana 4-H Youth Development strives to be the premier, community-based program empowering young people to reach their full potential.
4-H Motto & Pledge:
"To Make the Best Better."
"I pledge my head to clear 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."