What is 4-H?
Traditional programming
Jefferson County 4-H has a history of club activity with youth participating in fair based projects. With over 30 clubs, members have the opportunity to experience a variety of projects.
Traditional 4-H project clubs provide volunteers who assist members to learn about a specific project area through hands-on experiences. Youth then have the opportunity to exhibit their projects at county fair.
Expanding the program
Jefferson County 4-H has expanded in recent years, to include:
- Explore 4-H. Youth are given the opportunity to expand their skills in different areas in classes that offered once a week for one month. Information about the various classes and class schedule is found in Jefferson County 4-H Newsletter. Examples of classes offered are: Leathercraft, Hunter Safety, Sewing, Cake Decorating, and Making Fishing Lures.
- Science activities. Youth participating in this area are given opportunities to work with robotics and compete in district competitions.
- Indoor Soccer Program. New to the Jefferson County 4-H program, indoor soccer started in November of 2011. Members meet and improve their soccer skills twice a week.
- Jr. Master Gardener. This new club meets once a month at the COCC Madras Education Center and utilizes research based curriculum that is taught by OSU horticulture staff and Certified Master Gardener Volunteers. Youth attend classes through the winter and then will continue at Central Oregon Ag Research Center as the weather improves. Members will be involved with planting a garden and having items to exhibit at the Jefferson County Fair.
Providing educational opportunities
Members of 4-H have the opportunity to experience local, state, as well as, regional trainings. Local youth have attended:
· High Desert Leadership Retreat—this retreat is designed for youth in the 7th to 12th grade. Participants have the opportunity to participate in hands on activities, workshops and seminars designed to enhance their capabilities in school, at home, on the job, and in life. This conference is held annually over the Martin Luther King Jr. weekend.
· OSU Summer Conference—this retreat is held on the OSU campus. Registration is for youth that are in the 7th to 12th grade. There are many classes to choose from. It is a great chance to make new friends and spend time on the OSU campus. The conference is usually held each year in June.
If you would like further information about joining a club, activities or educational opportunities call the OSU Jefferson County Extension office at: 541-550-4130
