1. Programs

4-H Youth Development

Credit: Oregon 4-H (Cropped from original)
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Join 4-H

There are many ways to get involved with 4-H!

Youth ages 9–19 are eligible to become full 4-H members each year. The 4-H year runs October 1–Sept 30, and age and eligibility are based on those dates. Most youth get involved by joining a club, but you can also start a new club, join a project, or go to summer camp at 4-H.

Children ages 5–8 are eligible to join 4-H as Cloverbuds, a program that focuses on experiencing 4-H learning opportunities and having fun without the competitive factor that is inherent to youth Projects.

We also have a Collegiate 4-H Program for OSU students and recent 4-H alumni.

(To join as a volunteer, please go to the volunteer page.)

Ready to join 4-H?

Each county has programming that's relevant to their local community, which means that many of the forms and details of enrolling can differ. Make sure to communicate with your local program coordinator to get enrolled fully, get signed up for new member orientation, and get on the list to receive updates for your county 4-H program.

Contact your local 4-H program
Photo by Lynn Ketchum (Cropped from original)
Sign Up through 4-HOnline

How to Enroll

Oregon 4-H uses 4-HOnline to ensure everyone has their paperwork in order. To enroll each year, you'll need to sign in to 4-HOnline and confirm your contact information and clubs you'd like to join. (So make sure to keep that password for next year!)

Some counties may have additional questions or forms. To ensure you've done everything you need, contact your local 4-H county program.

If you are unable to use 4HOnline to enroll due to internet or other accessibility issues, we also have printed forms available below.

Sign In to 4-HOnline

You don't have to join a club to get involved!

No matter your budget, schedule, or passion, there is a 4-H program for you. Membership in 4-H is open to all youth without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, gender expression, disability, sexual orientation, or marital / parental status.

  • Go To Camp! 4‑H overnight and day camps offer recreational and educational opportunities in a camp setting. 4‑H camps provide youth with the chance to meet new people, have fun and experience the great outdoors. Learn more about 4-H camps.
  • Participate at School! 4‑H after-school and in-school programs provide 4‑H activities during and after school hours using hands-on activities and 4‑H curriculum. Both programs are available in grade schools and high schools.
  • Explore the Cloverbuds Program for youth ages 5-8. Learn more about the Cloverbuds program.
  • Participate in an event or short-term class: All across the state, 4-H offers short-term classes throughout the year where you can learn skills from cake decorating to financial management. Check your local events calendar to see what's happening near you!

Event and Enrollment Resources

  • 4-H Youth Standard Health Form: Please fill out this form if you are enrolling or attending a 4-H event.
  • Acknowledgement of Risk and Waiver of Liability: Please read and sign this form if you are enrolling in 4-H or participating in a 4-H activity.
  • Oregon 4-H Animal Science Exhibitor Agreement: All 4-H members participating in an animal science project or events with their animals must read and sign this form.
  • OSU Extension 4-H adult agreement: OSU Extension 4-H Adult Agreement
  • 4-H Youth Code of Conduct: The well-being of everyone involved in 4-H program is important. Please read and sign to agree to the Code of Conduct.
  • Adult Standards of Behavior: Standards of Behavior for Adults Working in 4-H Programs and Activities with Minors.
  • Chartering a 4-H Club in Oregon: A 4-H Club Charter allows a group to use the 4-H Name & Emblem, with related rights and responsibilities. For the 2022-23 4-H year, all 4-H Charters must be re-issued. Use this application to apply for a club charter, and then submit the form to your 4-H staff at your local Extension office.
  • Photo Opt Out Form: The Photo Opt Out Release should be used when program participants do not wish for the University to record their participation and appearance on any recorded medium. Please complete and return this form to your local Extension Office.

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