4-H helps young people learn and grow through a process that builds competence, confidence, connection, compassion, and character.  By participating in 4-H, young people prepare themselves for economic and social success as adults while making positive contributions to their communities.

4-H programming is based on the theory and practice of positive youth development.  In short, it based on a belief that positive outcomes for young people don’t happen by chance.  Instead, it is up to parents, schools, youth organizations, and the entire community to help them learn and grow.

Positive youth development occurs best in settings that provide opportunities for mastery, independence, generosity, and belonging. That's why 4-H goes to great lengths to ensure that all 4-H experiences include these essential elements.

Interested Youth

What can you do in 4-H?

• All different kinds of projects that include animals, science, engeering, technolgoly, arts, drama, photography, dance, scrapbooking, cooking, modeling, shooting sports, teen leadership, and these are just naming a few
• 4-H Offers opportunities to travel all over the United States and around the world
• Offer all kinds of  camps, conferences, and retreats
• And all kinds of other things as well

4-H Helps you:

• Meet new friends
• Gain knowledge and learn fun new skills
• Work together as a team and develop a sense of fair play
• Learn and and practice leadership skills
• Learn decision-making skills
• Develop an appreciation and understanding of your community
• Improve communication skills
• Develop positive attitudes about yourself and others
• Accomplish goals through successful youth/adult partnerships

How do I become a 4-H member.....

• Visit the Crook County Extension office for more information on available clubs and projects
• Fill out a Crook County 4-H Member Enrollment Form
• Pay the minimal enrollment fee
• Turn the form into the Crook County Extension Service

Interested Adults

Adult volunteer leaders are the mainstay of the 4-H program. Each year more than 7,000 adults volunteer their time and talents to help Oregon 4-H members. In addition, nearly 1,000 teens are involved in leadership projects.

Leaders learn along with 4-H members as Extension faculty members keep them informed about new information. Not only do leaders learn more about the project they are teaching, but they learn about teaching techniques and working with people. For this reason, 4-H is often referred to as an adult education program as well as a youth education program.

Although most volunteers lead clubs, there are other leadership roles in Oregon 4-H. Some volunteers might serve as community coordinators, assisting Extension staff in recruiting and organizing 4-H work in a particular geographic area. Others serve as resource leaders sharing their skills with club leaders, while still others share their talents as activity leaders for camps and special programs or committee members involved in program planning with professional staff.

How do I become a 4-H leader.....

• Fill out a New Leader Application, including 3 references
• Attend a new leader training session
• Pass a criminal background check

Want more information?

Contact the Crook County Extension Office today at:

498 SE Lynne Blvd
Prineville OR 97754
(541) 447-6228

Kim Herber- Crook County 4-H Program Coordinator

Email Kim Herber or (541) 447-6228

Jeremy Green- Crook County 4-H Agent

Email Jeremy Green or (541) 447-6228