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.
4-H is a national organization delivered by Cooperative Extension–a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provides experiences where young people learn by doing. Youth complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and citizenship, in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Kids experience 4-H in every county and parish in the country.
Nebraska 4-H prepares young people for successful futures. Educational programs place a strong emphasis on life skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, social skills, communication, responsibility, citizenship, and leadership.
2025 Custer County 4-H Council
District I: Kyla Olson and JD Keefe
District II: Holly Bumgarner and Luke Smith
District III: Jen Schmidt and Chad Coleman
District IV: Christy Berghorst and Matt Peterson
District V: Dan Longfellow and Sarah Bartak
District VI: Holly Remund and Peter Pelster
District VII: Kory Ostrand and Michelle Nelson
District VIII: Jake Rosentreader and Sally Harris
District IX: Lana Phelps and Jeff Witthuhn
Youth Candidates: Alex Berghorst and Mace Beran
Youth Candidates: Emma Larsen and Caleb Wiiest
4-H Council Officers
President Jeff Witthuhn
Vice-President Jake Rosentreader
Secretary Kyal Olson
Treasurer Christy Berghorst
2026 4-H Special Garden Project
This project is open to youth of 4-H age, 8-18 before January 1, 2026, and it will give them the opportunity to learn about growing, harvesting, and exhibiting this unique flower.
The Special Gardening Project lets 4-H members try their hand at growing unusual vegetables, flowers, fruits, and herbs. The project allows experienced 4-H gardeners to grow something fun, new, and different while letting those new to gardening get their feet wet in this project area.
The focus of the 2026 project is the Alumia Vanilla Cream Marigold. This marigold produces creamy, yellow flowers on compact plants. This variety not only has a unique color, but it also has a very long bloom time.
