What is 4-H?

Chester County 4-H is an informal education program for youth ages 8-18, designed to teach youth life skills.  4-H is built on the subject matter projects developed by Penn State Cooperative Extension and National 4-H Council. This information is used by interested adults who serve as volunteer leaders. 4-H is a joint effort of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Penn State University and Chester County Cooperative Extension. The union of these organizations and funds provides the materials, tools and professional staff needed to support our volunteers and family participants.

4-H is people sharing, doing and learning together in all kinds of projects, events and activities. Members choose projects that fit their interests, and the places where they live. Group activities and events like fairs, trips, leader trainings, fundraising, and achievement programs provide additional opportunities and learning experiences.
4-H is open to all youth and adults regardless of race, sex, national origin, creed or disability. Most 4-H clubs have a business meeting for the entire membership once a month. They make decisions about projects to do, community service efforts, fundraising activities, election of officers, etc. Project meetings involve the adults and youth who want to work on a specific topic.

The backbone of 4-H is the system of volunteer leaders who lead 4-H clubs. Don't be surprised though, if you see 4-H in other places! We visit school, operate a residential 4-H camp, and have short term project and trainings for 4-H and non 4-H youth, known as special interests groups.