Shelby County 4-H Youth Development
What We Do
4-H began over 100 years ago, and has since grown into the largest youth development program in the nation. 4-H prepares young people to be leaders in their community and around the world through hands-on experiences alongside their peers and caring adults. Backed by a network of more than 6 million youth, 540,000 adult volunteers, 3,500 professionals, and more than 60 million alumni; 4-H delivers research-based programming around positive youth development. 4-H is delivered through America's 109 land-grant universities and the Cooperative Extension Service reaching every corner of our nation.
In Indiana, 4-H can be found in all 92 counties as delivered through Purdue Extension. Community clubs, aftershock programs, school enrichment, camps/workshops, and special interest programs are all ways youth across Indiana can be involved with the 4-H program.
INDIANA STATE FAIR- AUGUST 7-23, 2026
Contact Us
Office Location
20 W Polk Street, Suite 201Shelbyville, IN 46176
(317) 392-6460
Office Hours
Monday - Friday8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Closed on County Holidays
4-H Staff
Erin Padgett, 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator
Cindy Kuhn, 4-H Program Assistant
cmkuhn@purdue.edu
Natalie Werner, 4-H Secretary
russe238@purdue.edu
Enroll Now in 4-H!
4-H enrollment for the 2025-2026 program year opens October 1, 2025. We encourage families to register for 4-H by January 15th, enrollments made after January may limit participation options. 4-H Members, Mini 4-H Members, and Adult Volunteers must enroll each year to participate in the program.
4-H OnlineMini 4-H
Mini 4-H is a program designed to encourage positive development of children, Kindergarten through second grade. The goal of Mini 4-H is to help young children explore friendships outside the family; explore the way in which things work; practice both small and large muscle control; and think about the ways people work together on projects.
Learn More About Mini 4-HEnroll your Projects
This separate website is to let the Extension Office know what you will be exhibiting at the Shelby County Fair. This website is also how we can print out exhibit tags and judge’s sheets. Fair Entry will open May 1, 2026 and close May 21, 2026. Check the Shelby County 4-H Handbook for more information on Fair Entry.
Fair Entry4-H Camp Job Posting
WCCA (West Central Camp Association) is seeking help in filling open positions.Camp Health and Wellness Director of West Central Camping Association
The West Central Camping Association is seeking a Health & Wellness Director to oversee camper and staff health during 4-H camp at Shakamak State Park (May 26 – June 10). This role provides first aid, manages medications, and serves as a medical resource throughout camp. Applicants must be 21 or older with CPR, AED, and First Aid certification; RN or LPN are preferred. Apply at https://bit.ly/WCCA26 by Friday, May 1, 2026.
Kitchen Help of West Central Camping Association
The West Central Camping Association is hiring Kitchen Staff to assist with meal preparation, serving, and clean-up during 4-H camp at Shakamak State Park (May 26 – June 10). This position supports the Head Cook and helps maintain a safe, clean kitchen environment. Applicants must be at least 15 years old. Apply at https://bit.ly/WCCA26 by Friday, May 1, 2026.
Handbook
Green Record Books
What is a Green Record Book?
A Green Record Book is a tool for 4-H members to document their work and achievements. Members should complete their record books neatly, either by hand or typed. To ensure your record book is complete, keep the following criteria in mind:
- Completion: All questions on the "My Record of Achievement" form should be answered appropriately.
- Logical Order: Records should be organized by dates and times.
- Achievement: Records reflect project development and demonstrate that instructions were followed, showcasing the experience gained.
- Neatness: Records must be legible, whether handwritten or typed.
- Project Requirements: Ensure that all project requirements have been met.
What Goes in the Green Record Book?
Each Green Record Book comes with one ‘My Record of Achievement’ paper. If you run out of space, you can get another copy at the Extension Office. Each individual project also requires a ‘Record Sheet,’ which should be placed in the Green Record Book behind the ‘My Record of Achievement’ section.
Consequences of Not Completing the Green Record Book
Shelby County 4-H members are expected to complete and submit their Green Record Book annually, by the Wednesday before Fair Week. If a member fails to turn in their Green Record Book by the designated due date, they will forfeit the opportunity to collect premium money. Late submissions will be accepted until 4:00 PM on July 31st for completion only.
Enrollment Guide to 4-H Online
Please view the following guides to enroll in 4-H. Please contact the Shelby County Purdue Extension Office at 317-392-6460 with any questions you have.
*See bottom of page under '4-H Volunteers' for enrollment guides on new and returning adult volunteers.
Shelby County 4-H Forms
The following are important forms for Shelby County 4-H members. For livestock specific forms, scroll down to 'Livestock & Animals' on this page.Livestock & Animals
2026 LIVESTOCK PEN RESERVATION FORM
2026 Assistant Showman Request Form
DOGS, CATS, FERRETS, AND EQUINE ARE ALL REQUIRED TO HAVE A COMPLETED 2026 VACCINATION FORM PRIOR TO THE ANIMAL ARRIVING ON THE PREMISES FOR ANY 4-H EVENT.
Please use this link to view and download animal vaccination forms.
- Animals from youth livestock programs are treated with the utmost care.
- Youth livestock exhibitors are contributing to a safe, wholesome food supply.
- Youth livestock exhibitors are prepared to be ambassadors for animal agriculture.
Policy
To exhibit beef cattle, dairy cattle, swine, sheep, meat goats, dairy goats, poultry and rabbits at
the county fair and Indiana State Fair, 4-H members must be certified through the Indiana 4-H
Livestock Quality Care training or the online Youth for the Quality Care of Animals program.
Quality Assurance training must be completed by 4-H members annually. For more information
about in-person training in your county, please contact your County Extension Office
4-H Livestock Auction
On behalf of the Shelby County 4-H Livestock Auction Committee and the 4-H Advisory Council, we invite you to join us for the 62nd annual 4-H Livestock Auction!
Join us in supporting the amazing efforts of our 4-H youth! By participating in the auction, you're not just bidding—you’re helping them learn the true value of hard work, dedication, and responsibility. Your support makes a difference!
- The Livestock Auction Sale Committee will send a check to the 4-H member for the amount of the appraisal price of sheep, meat goats and swine. Beef members will take their animal home to feed out until it is ready to go to market.
- As a buyer, you can bid any amount. Send the final closing bid amount directly to the 4-H member. For example, if the final bid is $150, you send $150 directly to the 4-H member. The address of the 4-H member will be listed on the sales ticket that you may pick up at the auction window after the auction.
- If you want to add on a bid above the winner bid, please fill out an add on card provided at the check-in table. Then hand that card to the ring man.
The livestock auction will start promptly at 1:30 PM on Friday, June 19, 2026 in the Livestock Arena on the Shelby County Fairgrounds.
Order of the 2026 Livestock Auction will be as follows: barrows, rabbits, poultry, sheep, goat wethers, beef, dairy cattle, then dairy goats.
4-H Clubs & Leaders
What is a 4-H Club? A 4-H club is an organized group of at least five youth from three different families who meet regularly with adult volunteers or staff for a long-term, progressive series of educational experiences.
What is the purpose of a 4-H Club? The purpose of a 4-H club is to provide positive youth development opportunities to meet the needs of young people to experience belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity—the Essential Elements—and to foster educational opportunities tied to the Land Grant University knowledge base.
The Blue Ribbon 4-H Club welcomes members of all ages. Our club is growing, with many younger members joining. We hope to continue this growth and encourage our members to be active in 4-H. We also aim to teach them how to participate effectively.
Our scheduled meetings for 2026 will begin at 7:00 PM at the Fountaintown Fire Station (141 E Brookville Road, Fountaintown, IN 46130) on the following dates:
- October 16, 2025
- November 13, 2025
- December 11, 2025
- January 8, 2026
- February 12, 2026
- March 12, 2026
- April 9, 2026
- May 14, 2026
Club Leader
- Dean Tyner
- Megan Ramsey
We have strong, active roots that have grown in Shelby County for over 59 years. Our club has consistently engaged in leadership development, project skills, demonstrations, judging contests, parliamentary procedures, officer training, hands-on learning, and community service activities. Our main goals are to build leadership skills, confidence, trust, respect, honesty, and self-esteem, while establishing lifelong friendships and helping our youth make a positive transition into adulthood. Together, we encourage each other to "Make the Best Better."
Our scheduled meetings for 2026 will begin at 6:00 PM at the Fairland Fire Station (400 W 400 N, Fairland, IN 46126) on the following dates:
- September 9, 2025
- October 14, 2025
- November 11, 2025
- December 3, 2025 (5:00 PM)
- December 9, 2025
- April 7, 2026
- April 14, 2026
- May 5, 2026
- May 19, 206
- May 26, 2026
- September 8, 2026
- September 22, 2026
- October 13, 2026
- November 17, 2026
- December 8, 2026
Club Leaders
- Pam Robinson
- Danny Robinson
- Laura Bridges
- Andy Bridges
Shelby County 4-H Junior Leaders is a club as well as a project open to all youth is grades 7-12. They participate in various leadership and community service projects throughout the year. There is no additional charge for 4-H Junior Leader membership, but you must re-enroll in it every year.
Our scheduled meetings for 2025-2026 will begin at 6:30 PM in the Extension Office Education Room on the following dates:
- October 8, 2025
- November 12, 2025
- December 10, 2025
- January 14, 2026
- February 11, 2026
- April 8, 2026
- May 13, 2026
Club Leaders
- Erin Padgett, 4-H Youth Educator
- Tatem Hodge
The Noble Happy Harvesters Club is almost 100 years old. We are a club with roots in Noble Township, but invite members from any part of Shelby County to join us. The meetings will be held at the Cassidy Farms' Shop, 2539 E 700 S, Waldron, IN 46182. It is only 10 minutes from Waldron. At each meeting we will follow Parliamentary procedure and have demonstrations to highlight different projects. Our club promotes membership, club activities, and encourages county and state fair participation. Our goal is to facilitate future leaders of our community through 4-H activities.
Our scheduled meetings for 2026 will begin at 6:30 PM on the following dates:
- January 6, 2026
- February 3, 2026
- March 3, 2026
- April 7, 2026
- May 5, 2026
Club Leaders
- Olivia Cassidy
- Peggy Cassidy
The Shelby Gradatim 4-H Club is now under new leadership. Julia Hamblen and Madison Evans, both Shelby County 4-H alumni and recent Purdue graduates, are leading the club. The Shelby Gradatim 4-H Club offers a variety of activities, community service opportunities, leadership development, recreation, project support, and livestock lessons for 4-H members of all ages. Our goal is to provide a welcoming environment for all members to develop their skills in different areas and succeed in their post-high school endeavors.
Our scheduled meetings for 2025-2026 will begin at 6:30 PM in the Extension Office Education Room on the following dates:
- October 21, 2025
- November 18, 2025
- December 16, 2025
- January 20, 2026 at
- February 17, 2026
- April 21, 2026
- May 19, 2026
Club Leaders
- Julia Hamblen
- Madison Evans
- Frances Jackson
The Southwestern Shamrocks 4-H Club is located in the southwest part of Shelby County, but it is open to anyone from the county. We warmly welcome and encourage all 4-H members, Mini 4-H members, and parents to attend our monthly meetings. Our leaders work to help elected 4-H members follow parliamentary procedure at each meeting. We communicate important announcements and reminders via email and have a Facebook page for additional updates.
Our scheduled meetings for 2025-2026 will begin at 6:30 PM at the Flat Rock Fire Station (2785 Old State Rd 252, Flat Rock, IN 47234) on the following dates:
- November 18, 2025
- December 16, 2025
- January 20, 2026
- February 17, 2026
- April 21, 2026
- May 19, 2026
- June 2, 2026
Club Leaders
- Michelle Tobias
- Hayley Clark
- Jill Zaring
- Kristin Schoettmer
- Becca Miller
- Amber Fiesbeck
The Survivors 4-H Club welcomes members of all ages. Each year, the club participates in various community service projects, such as making blankets for nursing home residents and collecting food for the Salvation Army. Members also enjoy putting their projects together for the County Fair during winter and spring breaks.
Our scheduled meetings for 2025-2026 on the following dates:
- October 25, 2025 at 5:00 PM
- November 20, 2025 at 12:00 PM
- December 22, 2025 at 1:00 PM
- February 22, 2026 at 1:00 PM
- March 17, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Club Leader
- Deana Thurston
For meeting location, please contact club leader or the Extension Office.
Triton Lucky Leaf 4-H Club is a small club with big goals! The kids and leaders work together to make sure all members are informed and get the most from their 4-H experience.
Our scheduled meetings for 2025-2026 will begin at 6:00 PM at the Boggstown Presbyterian Church (2488 N Sand Creek Road, Boggstown, IN 46110) on the following dates:
- November 8, 2025
- January 12, 2026
- February 9, 2026
- March 9, 2026
- April 13, 2026
Club Leader
- Christa Weaver
- Katy Allen
The Union Ags 4-H Club is over 75 years old. Club meetings are open to everyone, including Min 4-H members. Like our Facebook page to stay in touch!
Our scheduled meetings for 2026 will begin at 6:30 PM at the Little Blue River Baptist Church (3515 N 500 E, Shelbyville, IN 46176) on the following dates:
- January 14, 2026
- February 11, 2026
- March 11, 2026
- April 8, 2026
- May 13, 2026
Club Leaders
- Ashley Pine
- Jerry Pine
The Hoosier Horseman 4-H Club welcomes all 4-H members in grades 3-12. We meet on Wednesdays at the Shelby County Fairgrounds at 6:00 PM. Members of the club take turns giving demonstrations, as well as participating in community service and fundraiser's. Topics covered at our meetings include ride safety, equipment, tack, and more. Club members also enjoy participating in ride nights, which are hosted by the horse and pony superintendent. These ride nights help members prepare, build confidence, and practice for the county fair show. Our club members come from various backgrounds; some own their horses, while others lease them. At the conclusion of the year in August, we hold an awards program to recognize members' hard work and present prizes.
Our scheduled meetings for 2026 will begin at 6:00 PM in the Brinson Building (500 Frank Street, Shelbyville, IN 46176) on the following dates:
- February 4, 2026
- March 4, 2026
- April 1, 2026
- May 6, 2026
- May 20, 2026
*If riding practice is canceled on the night of a club meeting, we will meet in the Brinson Building.
Club Leaders- Jennifer Wright
- Patricia Weddle
The Sunset Llama 4-H Club is open to all 4-H members in grades 3-12 who are interested in showing llamas or alpacas. Members can either show their own animals or lease one, depending on availability. The purpose of our club meetings and workshops is to teach proper showmanship techniques, as well as to provide knowledge about confirmation, anatomy, and general care of the animals. We will also cover the correct procedures for completing obstacle courses, public relations, and pack classes. Most of the obstacles that will be featured at the 4-H show will be brought to at least one meeting, allowing everyone to practice before the fair show. We encourage good fellowship and sportsmanship among all members.
Our scheduled meetings for 2026 will begin at 6:00 PM in the Livestock Arena (Shelby County Fairgrounds, 500 Frank Street, Shelbyville, IN 46176) on the following dates:
- April 3, 2026
- April 17, 2026
- May 1, 2026
- May 8, 2026
- May 15, 2026
- May 22, 2026
- May 29, 2026
Club Leaders
- Vanessa Benagh
- Tatem Hodge
- Sara Schaefer
Shelby County 4-H Shooting Sports is a club with the goal of teaching the safe use, understanding and handling of archery equipment as well as firearms. This is taught interactively by 4-H Shooting Sports Coordinators and instructors at a private range in Shelby County. The 4-H member will be expected to be familiar with the range rules, the parts of the equipment they are using as well as how all those parts work together. Four disciplines are offered: Archery, Pistol (22 caliber), Rifle (22 caliber) and Shotgun (20/12 gauge) Firearms/Bows, Ammo/Arrows and targets/clays are provided, however there may be a nominal fee charged per student per discipline.
Shooting Sports Workshops will be held at Jim Fischers (4048 S 515 E, Waldron, IN 46182) are scheduled for:
- January 17 ,2026
- January 31, 2026
- February 14, 2026
- February 28, 2026
- March 14, 2026
- March 28, 2026
- April 11, 2026
- April 25, 2026
- May 9, 2026
- May 16, 2026
Pistol & Shotgun - 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Rifle & Archery - 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Club Leader
- Bill Claytor
- Donny Chambers
The Sheep & Goat 4-H Club has been active for three years. Although we are a relatively new club, we offer many hands-on activities for 4-H members to participate in and learn from. We strive to invite guest speakers and organize showmanship clinics. These clinics help 4-H members understand the importance of animal selection and health, while also providing them with the basics of showmanship skills. Additionally, we hold meetings and workshops where 4-H members can bring their animals.
Our scheduled meetings for 2026 will begin at 6:30 PM at the Family Arts Building (500 Frank Street, Shelbyville, IN 46176) on the following dates:
- January 22, 2026
- February 19, 2026
- March 26, 2026
- April 23, 2026
- May 14, 2026
Club Leaders
- Trey Davidson
- Chastity Davidson
- Joel Parker
Fun Fair Events 2026
We have added several new FUN events to the fair schedule for 2026. Below is an overview of the new fair events as well as the flyers for the corresponding event.
Where: Livestock Arena
Contest Date & Time: Following Grand Drive of Beef, Dairy Cattle,
Goats, Sheep and Swine
Participants: Adults of Any Age, No Current 4-H Members
Think you’ve got what it takes to show like the 4-H members? Here’s your chance!
1. Eligibility
- Open to adults of all ages.
- Participants must not be current 4-H members.
2. Sign-Up
- Entry fee: $5 per person
- Sign-up will be available at each livestock show until the Grand Drive begins.
- Once the Grand Drive starts, no additional entries or withdrawals will be accepted.
3. Withdrawal
- Any adult who chooses to remove their name from the sign-up list must pay a $10 removal fee. Someone else nominated you? That’s fine, but it’ll still cost you the removal fee to not participate. (Adults can only be added/removed from the sign-up list one time.)
- Removal fees will be added to the jackpot.
4. Livestock Used
- Contests will include the following species: Beef, Dairy Cattle, Goats, Sheep, Swine.
- Animals will be provided by 4-H members with permission. Exhibitors are not required to use their own livestock.
5. Contest Format
- Adult Showmanship will be held immediately following the Grand Drive of each species.
- Adults will be judged (loosely) on basic showmanship skills, animal handling and sportsmanship.
- The judge’s decision is final.
6. Prizes
- The winner of each Adult Showmanship class will receive a jackpot payout.
- Jackpot will be shared between the winner and the Shelby County 4-H Advisory Council (split 50/50 unless otherwise announced).
7. Conduct
- All participants must handle livestock safely and respectfully.
- Any unsafe or inappropriate behavior will result in disqualification
Where: Livestock Arena
Contest Date & Time: Friday, June 19 at 8:00pm
Participants: All 4-H Members
Overview
The 4-H Barnyard Olympics is a fun, high-energy team competition designed to promote teamwork, problem-solving and good sportsmanship among 4-H members. Teams compete in a series of light-hearted, farm-themed challenges that reflect common barn and livestock tasks. While speed is important, safety, cooperation and positive attitudes are the top priorities. This contest is meant to be entertaining for participants and spectators while reinforcing 4-H values and encouraging friendly competition!
Contest Rules
1. Eligibility
- Only 4-H members in Shelby County may participate.
- All team members must be enrolled in 4-H for the current program year.
- Members must follow all 4-H codes of conduct during the contest.
2. Team Composition
- Teams must consist of four (4) 4-H members.
- Teams may be mixed by gender, grade or project area.
- No substitutions are allowed once the contest begins, except in case of injury or illness and only with coordinator approval.
3. Event Format
- Teams will complete a series of barnyard-themed challenges.
- Example activities may include, but are not limited to:
- Water trough filling
- Hay bale stacking
- Hose or rope untangling
- Feed bucket relay
- Wheelbarrow or equipment tasks
- The event will be timed and scored based on task completion/accuracy.
- Total scores or cumulative time will determine final placing's.
- Safety is the top priority.
- Good sportsmanship is expected at all times.
- All equipment and materials will be provided by contest officials.
- Scoring will be based on:
- Completion of tasks
- Time to complete each challenge
- Proper task execution
- Penalties may be assessed for: skipped steps, unsafe behavior and failure to follow instructions
- Trophies will be awarded to the team members of the winning team.
Theme: Building Success One Block at a Time
Judging Date & Time: Monday, June 15 at 3:00pm
Participants: All 4-H Livestock Barns
Overview
The Battle of the Barns decorating contest is a fun and friendly competition between all four (Cattle Barn, Arena Barn, Barn 13 - Overflow, Poultry Barn) livestock barns to show off their 4-H pride, creativity, and teamwork! Each barn will decorate their space using this year’s 4-H theme of Lego “Building Success One Block at a Time.” Decorations will be judged by a special committee and the winning barn will earn bragging rights!
Contest Rules
1. Eligibility
- All 4-H members and volunteers assigned to a livestock barn are eligible to participate as a team.
2. Theme
- Decorations must reflect the Lego theme of “Building Success One Block at a Time.”
- Creativity, originality, and 4-H spirit are encouraged.
3. Set-Up Deadline
- All decorations must be fully installed and ready for judging by 3pm on Monday, June 15.
- Barns may begin decorating after check-in is complete on Sunday.
4. Judging
- A panel of judges will evaluate each barn using a scoring rubric.
- Results will be announced at the start of the Sheep Show.
- Rubric: Creativity & Originality – 25 points, Use of Theme – 25 points, Teamwork & Participation – 25 points, Overall Appearance – 25 points
5. Guidelines
- Decorations must be safe and not obstruct aisles, gates, or animal care areas.
- No glitter, loose confetti, or hazardous materials may be used.
- Decorations should be secured to withstand weather and fair traffic.
- All decorations must follow fire safety guidelines.
- Decorations should be respectful and appropriate for all audiences.
6. Awards
- A traveling banner will be hung in the winning barn and gets that barn bragging rights for the year.
- Honorable mentions may be awarded for categories like “Best Use of Theme” or “Most Creative.”
7. Clean-Up
- Barns are responsible for removing all decorations by the end of load-out on the final Saturday of fair.
Where: Livestock Arena
Contest Date & Time: Wednesday, June 17 at 6:30pm
Participants: All 4-H Members
Overview
The Goat & Sheep Obstacle Course is a fun, interactive event designed exclusively for 4-H members to showcase their handling skills and sportsmanship in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. Members guide their goat or sheep through a series of obstacles that reflect common challenges faced while working with livestock, encouraging patience, control and communication between the exhibitor and animal.
This event focuses on participation and learning rather than perfection, making it a great opportunity for members of all experience levels to build confidence, practice responsible animal handling and have fun with their projects. Whether navigating turns, stepping over rails or weaving through cones, the obstacle course celebrates good stockmanship and the spirit of 4-H!
Contest Rules
1. Eligibility
- All competitors must be Shelby County 4-H members.
- Only goats and/or sheep being exhibited in the Shelby County 4-H Goat or Sheep shows will be allowed to participate.
2. Divisions
- Mini: Kindergarten – 2nd grade
- Junior: 3rd – 5th grade
- Intermediate: 6th – 8th grade
- Senior: 9th – 12th grade
3. Event Format
- Each competitor and goat/sheep may attempt the obstacle course once. No goat/sheep will be allowed to go through the course more than once.
- All goats/sheep must be treated humanely. The competitor will be disqualified if any inhumane acts are observed.
- All obstacles must be attempted. If no attempt is made, the competitor is disqualified. A ten (10) second penalty will be added to the competitor’s total time for each obstacle not completed.
- A five (5) second penalty will be added to the competitor’s total time for each tennis ball knocked off the orange cones.
- The winner will be the competitor who completes the obstacle course in the shortest amount of time, including any penalties.
- The official time of the competitor will be recorded immediately after they complete the course. All times are final.
- A prize will be awarded to the top competitor in each division.
Possible Obstacles & Descriptions
Plank – a board wide enough for the animal to walk across
Pond/Stream with a Bridge – a small area of water with a bridge; the competitor crosses the bridge and the animal should either walk in the water or across the bridge
Jump – some sort of object to simulate a tree that might have fallen across a hiking trail
Weave – weave poles that the animal should follow the competitor between; tennis balls can be added to the top for additional difficulty level
A-Frame – the animal would be required to calmly climb up and then walk down the other side, not jump
Teeter Totter – the animal should calmly cross the teeter totter without jumping off as it lowers
Balance Board – a wide teeter totter where the competitor and animal are required to stand on the board and balance with both ends off the ground
Backing Up – the animal would be required to back up on command
Distraction (required) – some sort of distraction that the animal should accept calmly (camping chair, fan, food, loud noise, another animal, etc.)
Loading (required) – the last obstacle will require the animal to be loaded onto a trailer or truck
Lifting Feet – the competitor will tie the animal to the fence and pick feet up; advanced divisions may have to clean the hooves
Pulling a Sled – either the competitor or animal would pull a sled
Where: Scale Area of the Main Livestock Barn
Judging Date & Time: Thursday, June 18 from 9:00-11:00am
Participants: All 4-H Members
Overview
Put your livestock knowledge to the test in a fun and educational way! The Livestock Skill-a-thon challenges 4-H members of all ages and experience levels to demonstrate what they know about animal science and livestock management practices. This hands-on, station-based contest is designed to be both educational and engaging, giving participants a chance to show off their skills, learn something new, and earn bragging rights at the fair.
Contest Rules
1. Eligibility
- All 4-H members in Shelby County may participate.
2. Participation
- 4-H members will compete individually and not as teams.
- This contest will be an open-format. Come at anytime before 10:30am to begin the contest. All answer forms will be collected at 11am.
- Junior Division = 3rd-7th grades
- Senior Division = 8th-12th grades
3. Scoring
- Identification: Breed – 5 points per question, Equipment – 5 points per question, Feedstuffs – 5 points per question, Retail Meat – 5 points per question
- Industry Quiz: 2 points per question (Juniors – 10 questions; Seniors – 25 questions)
- Quality Assurance Quiz: 2 points per question (Juniors – 10 questions; Seniors – 20 questions)
- Banners will be awarded to the Overall Junior High Point winner and Overall Senior High Point winner.
- Honorable mentions may be awarded for categories like “Top Score in Breed Identification” or “Top Score in Equipment Identification.”
- The winners will be announced at the start of Hot Dog Feed on Friday, June 19th at 5pm.
Where: Horse Arena
Event Date & Time: Saturday, June 20th from 4:00-5:00pm
Participants: All 4-H Members
Overview
The 4-H Shaving Cream Fight is a fun, supervised recreational activity for 4-H members designed to promote camaraderie and positive social interaction in a controlled environment. Participant safety, respect for others and care of facilities are the top priorities.
Event Rules
1. Eligibility
- This activity is open to current Shelby County 4-H members only.
- Participation is voluntary.
2. Event Area & Boundaries
- The shaving cream fight must take place entirely within the horse arena fencing.
- Shaving cream may not be thrown outside the arena or toward spectators.
- Anyone leaving the arena during the event may not re-enter.
3. Supplies
- Participants must bring their own shaving cream.
- Only foam shaving cream is permitted.
- No gels, colored creams, glitter products, slime or pressurized novelty products are allowed.
- Containers may not be altered or used as projectiles.
- No other items may be thrown (no water balloons, bottles, lids or equipment).
4. Safety
- No contact with the face. Shaving cream may not be intentionally aimed at eyes, nose, mouth or ears.
- No pushing, tackling, grabbing or rough physical contact.
- Closed-toe shoes are required.
- Participants should wear clothes they do not mind getting messy.
- Anyone acting in an unsafe or irresponsible manner will be removed from the activity.
5. Conduct & Sportsmanship
- Good sportsmanship and respectful behavior are expected at all times.
- No foul language, bullying or intentional targeting of individuals who ask to stop.
- Participants must follow all instructions from 4-H staff and volunteers immediately.
6. Liability & Assumption of Risk
- Participation in the shaving cream fight is at the participant’s own risk.
- 4-H, Extension and the event facility are not responsible for lost, damaged or ruined personal items.
7. Cleanup
- Participants may be required to assist with basic cleanup following the event.
- Shaving cream containers must be disposed of properly in designated trash receptacles.
Projects
Members have the opportunity to learn more about a subject matter that they choose to study through completing hands on activities. In 4-H, we refer to these as projects. In order to enroll in a project, members must sign up for them at the time of enrolling in 4-H. Each project has a manual that guides the youth through the learning process as well as a set of guidelines that helps them meet the project requirements. Adult volunteers and staff who are knowledgeable on that particular subject often host workshops to allow the youth to learn about that topic in a social environment. Each project has a beginner, intermediate, and advanced level to allow youth to build on their knowledge each year and continue to challenge their skills. Projects are meant to be worked on over time, providing an educational opportunity for youth outside of the classroom setting. Often, youth will exhibit and display their project at a local county fair in order to show the community what they have learned. There is no limit to the number of projects youth can sign up for, however, we suggest starting out with one or two your first year.
- AEROSPACE
- ARTS & CRAFTS - GENERAL
- BEEKEEPING
- CAKE DECORATING
- CAT POSTER
- CERAMICS
- CHILD DEVELOPMENT
- COLLECTIONS
- COMPUTERS
- CONSTRUCTION & ARCHITECTURAL REPLICA
- CONSUMER CLOTHING
- CONSTRUCTION SETS
- CONSUMER LIVESTOCK
- COOKIE DECORATING
- CREATING WITH A MIX
- CROPS
- CUPCAKE DECORATING
- DO YOUR OWN THING
- DOG POSTER
- ELECTRIC
- ENTOMOLOGY
- FAMILY PROJECT
- FINE ARTS
- FLORICULTURE
- FOODS, BAKED - LEVEL A
- FOODS, BAKED - LEVEL B
- FOODS, BAKED - LEVEL C
- FOODS, BAKED - LEVEL D
- FOODS, PRESERVED - ALL LEVELS
- FORESTRY
- GARDEN
- GENEALOGY
- GEOLOGY
- GIFT WRAPPING
- HEALTH
- HOME ENVIRONMENT
- HORSELESS HORSEMAN
- INDIANA HERITAGE
- LLAMA/ALPACA FLEECE
- LLAMA/ALPACA FIBER CRAFTS
- LLAMA/ALPACA POSTER
- MICROWAVE
- MODELS
- NEEDLECRAFT'S
- PHOTOGRAPHY - BEGINNER
- PHOTOGRAPHY - INTERMEDIATE
- PHOTOGRAPHY - ADVANCED
- POULTRY POSTER
- RABBIT POSTER
- READING
- RECYCLING
- ROBOTICS
- SCRAPBOOK
- SEWING CONSTRUCTION - GRADES 3-7
- SEWING CONSTRUCTION - GRADES 8-12
- SEWING FOR FUN
- SHOOTING SPORTS
- SMALL ANIMALS
- SMALL ENGINES
- SOIL & WATER SCIENCE
- SPORTFISHING
- SPORTS
- TRACTOR
- VETERINARY SCIENCE
- WEARABLE ART
- WEATHER AND CLIMATE SCIENCE
- WELDING
- WILDFLOWERS
- WILDLIFE
- WOODWORKING
4-H Volunteers
4-H Volunteers include Club Leaders, Project Leaders as well as 4-H Council and Fair Board Members.
Learn more about your role as a new or returning 4-H Volunteer through the "4-H Mentor Manual".
See Extension webpage here for instruction manuals.
Club Leaders
4-H Community Club Leader – provides organization to a 4-H Cub based in a local community, typically representing a certain geographic area.
4-H Project Club Leader – offers educational opportunities to 4-H members based on a certain project or subject area in a club setting.
4-H Club Leaders can be given access to see and utilize a club roster. If you are a club leader and would like to be given access, please contact the Extension Office.
Club leaders are asked to complete these forms annually. If you have questions on any of them, please contact our office.
|
Name of Form |
When the form/ letter is sent to you |
Due Back to the Extension Office |
|
4-H Club Information Form |
August or September |
October 1 |
|
4-H Unit/ Club Financial Report |
November |
February 1 |
|
4-H Unit/Club Activity Report Form |
November |
February 1 |
|
Volunteer Hours Chart |
November |
December 15 |
|
4-H Unit/Club Financial Review- Audit Information |
January |
February 1 |
|
990 Postcard (IRS) |
March |
May 15 |
As an Extension Office under the guidance of Purdue University, there are annual forms and paperwork that each unit (club) must complete to remain in compliance.
The following forms are typically mailed, emailed, and often available on the Extension website. These forms are designed specifically for club leaders to complete on an annual basis.
If you are apart of a brand new club, you may have a few additional forms to complete.
Some forms are available here. If there is a specific form you are in need of, please contact the Extension Office.
Club leaders, below is a guide to help you navigate your role.
Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded to youth recognizing their achievements and life skill development in 4-H experiences in both Indiana 4-H as well as Shelby County 4-H.Junior Leaders
The Junior Leader project allows 4-H members in grades 7-12 the opportunity to provide their Adult 4-H Volunteers with additional assistance in their 4-H Clubs and related activities. Junior Leaders also serve as mentors and role models to the younger 4-H members by sharing their experiences with them.
Shelby County 4-H Junior Leaders is a club as well as a project open to all youth is grades 7-12. They participate in various leadership and community service projects throughout the year. There is no additional charge for 4-H Junior Leader membership, but you must re-enroll in it every year.
*Make sure you mark “Junior Leaders” as a project when you re-enroll for 2025-2026 (just being enrolled in the club will not count as completion).