What do the four “H’s” stand for on the 4-H clover emblem? The “H’s” stand for: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. Club members pledge their Head, Heart, Hands, and Health (the four H’s) as they recite the 4-H pledge at meetings.
What is the 4-H pledge? I pledge, my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, and my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.
What is the 4-H motto? “To Make the Best Better”
What are the 4-H colors? The 4-H colors are green and white.
How did 4-H begin? 4-H began in the early 1900’s as Corn Clubs for boys and Canning Clubs for girls. Although the program has changed a lot through the years, it has always been a program designed to help children become productive members of their communities. The national 4-H program celebrated its 100th birthday in 2002.
Do I have to live on a farm to join 4-H? No, although 4-H began as a program for rural children, today 4-H is available for ALL CHILDREN whether they live on a farm or in the city.
How old do you have to be to join a 4-H club? Children can join a 4-H club as soon as they are five by January 1 of the current year, and they can stay involved until their final year of eligibility - the year they are 18 on January 1. Clover Kids = 5-7, Traditional 4-Her = 8-18
What is the 4-H year timeline? The 4-H year begins in October and continues through the following September. But most clubs run January-September for their full-time 4-H activities. The 4-H year kicks off with a kickoff/achievement party. Youth work all year long to complete projects to enter at the County Fair.
Can we join 4-H at any time during the year? Yes! However, all youth must be enrolled with the Nebraska 4-H online enrollment system (https://v2.4honline.com) by June 15 to be eligible to exhibit in the Burt County Fair or any competitive 4-H events.
What are the age divisions for competitive events (County Level)? A child must be at least eight years old as of January1 of the current program year to compete in any 4-H event. Most competitions are held in the following age divisions: Juniors (8-10), Intermediate (11-13), & Seniors (14-18); Livestock age divisions: Juniors (8-11), Intermediate (12-14), and Seniors (15-18). However, age divisions do vary from program to program. Always carefully review the registration information for 4-H events. But we also have Clover Kids…
What is a Clover Kid? Children ages five to seven are known in 4-H as “Clover Kids”. These children are full 4-H members and can participate in a wide range of programs and activities, including the fair. However, because research has shown that competition at this age is detrimental, Clover Kid members are not allowed to participate in competitive events. These members do participate in many contests and receive participation ribbons. Their work just isn’t “judged” and compared to other children’s work.
What does it cost to join a 4-H club? There is no cost to join 4-H. Some clubs will assess “dues” for each member to cover the cost of the project supplies. Dues vary from club to club depending on the projects selected. Project manuals are available at the extension office at no cost, thanks to the 4-H Council. If you are planning to exhibit livestock, there is an additional fee for ear tags and state fair nominations. Depending on your 4-H project, the cost will vary according to your supply needs.
How do I stay informed about 4-H opportunities? Read the Burt County 4-H Newsletter as it will give you all the details about upcoming programs. You can visit the Burt County 4-H website at: https://extension.unl.edu/statewide/burt/. We are also on Facebook: BurtNeExt. Finally, a great way to stay informed is to sign up for Remind. If you would like to receive text reminders, text @burtco4h to the number 81010. Or go to our website: https://www.remind.com/join/burtco4h