4-H is a part of Cornell Cooperative Extension. Projects are based on research and knowledge from Cornell University, other land-grant universities and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Program Goals
The four H's (head, heart, hands, and health) represent four basic human needs: independence, belonging, generosity, and mastery. Research shows that youth whose basic needs are met in positive ways are likely to grow into active citizens and contributing members of their families and communities.
4-H helps children fulfill these needs. By combining project activities with opportunities to go to camp, publicly show their work, travel, host international youth, and attend meetings and events at Cornell University, 4-H provides a framework on which young people can build self-confidence, responsibility, and generosity.
4-H takes Cornell University to the youth of New York State
Interested in joining 4-H?
4-H is available to all youth, ages 8-19, regardless of gender, race, color, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation or marital status. Adult volunteer leaders come from all walks of life. They serve on boards of directors, and advisory committees in addition to carrying out their responsibilities as club leaders, special interest group instructors, etc. For more information about 4-H in Genesee County call 585-343-3040 or stop by our office at 420 E. Main Street in Batavia.
4-H Clubs
A 4-H club must have 5 or more members and must meet at least six times during the club year. Clubs may meet at any convenient location. Some clubs meet in the leader or member's homes, others meet in a central place such as a school, church or community room. 4-H clubs usually do the following: project work, business meetings, recreation or social activities and special interest programs. There are activities and events that supplement regular 4-H project work. These include: award trips, hippology, dairy bowl, clothing revue, public presentations, contests, community service projects, achievement night, county and state fair.
What are 4-H Projects? The “Learn by Doing” Method
A project is a planned series of learning experiences through which youth develop knowledge, skills and/or attitudes. 4-H projects always teach the "whys" as well as the "hows". Projects can be done individually or as a group. Some projects like conservation or clogging are more fun when done in a group. Countywide clubs are available to join. These include: poultry, sheep, rabbit, youth theater, clogging, conservation, goat, and dog.
Who Can Be a 4-H Leader?
Parents or other interested adults who are willing to volunteer a part of their time and skills by sharing their abilities with youth. Interested adults may call the Genesee County Cooperative Extension office at 585-343-3040. You will be sent a leader application that should be filled out and returned to the 4-H office. A 4-H Program Educator will contact you and help you start your club. You will be invited to attend new leader orientation and special subject matter trainings.
What is Expected of a 4-H Parent?
Since a 4-H leader is a volunteer who is there because of their interest and love for youth, your support for your child and the club's activities is very helpful. Basic support can come in the form of seeing that your child is properly prepared for each meeting, has transportation to and from the meeting place, and completes any activities that are to be done at home.
What other ways can a 4-H parent help?
Volunteer to hold meetings or parties at your house. Offer to provide transportation to an event for a group of members. Send refreshments if they are a part of the meeting plan. Let the leader know that you are willing to help in any capacity. Then, be sure to be available.
More Resources:
NEW YORK STATE 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT:
340 Roberts Hall
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14853
Phone: 607-255-4799
website: http://nys4h.cce.cornell.edu
NATIONAL 4-H CENTER: National 4-H Council
7100 Connecticut Avenue
Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815
NATIONAL 4-H WEBSITE: http://www.fourhcouncil.org
To find out more about joining 4-H call 585-343-3040 ext.122 or stop by the extension office at 420 E. Main St. in Batavia.
Whether you’re a 4-H educator, volunteer or member, we want to hear from you.
The Revolution of Responsibility comes to life everyday through real 4-Hers who are making a real impact in their communities.
4-H youth are a living, breathing, culture-changing revolution for doing the right thing, breaking through obstacles, and pushing our country forward by making a measurable difference right where they live.
We want to hear how 4-H’ers are stepping up, leading positive change, and making an impact in your community. Share your story by visiting http://www.4-h.org/about/revolution/share-story/
4-H Youth Development is a part of the programming offering by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County. Click HERE to see more of what Cooperative Extension has to offer.
Barb Sturm, 4-H Youth Development/Ag In The Classroom Educator
Phone: 585-343-3040 ext. 122
E-mail: bbs28@cornell.edu
Chip Malone, 4-H Youth Development Educator
Phone: 585-343-3040 ext. 130
E-mail: cwm4@cornell.edu
or stop by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County
at 420 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020