Welcome to GLW 4-H!
Garfield, Loup & Wheeler Counties have a long and proud tradition of 4-H. Since 1928, Nebraska Extension has prepared thousands of youth to become active and responsible citizens in these counties. In the past year, we reached over 1 in 2 youth in our counties through membership in our traditional 4-H program and even more through school enrichment and afterschool programs. We are inspiring youth to become the leaders of the future through educational opportunities in STEM, leadership development, healthy living, community development, food supply confidence, entrepreneurship and college and career readiness. Our programs are based on the principles of positive youth development and experiential learning to provide youth the opportunity to learn life skills through hands-on lessons with trusted, caring adults.
Modern 4-H
Many may reminisce about the three C's when they think about 4-H: cows, cooking and clothing. However, 4-H has grown and changed with the times to serve even more families. 4-H's foundation in positive youth development requires it to be inclusive of all youth. This means that you do not have to live on a farm or have a strong background in home economics to enroll your youth in 4-H. We have projects ranging from photography to horticulture and robotics to home environment to fit the needs and interests of any youth. One of the greatest characteristics about 4-H is that it is a safe place for youth to explore and discover new interests through programs and workshops offered throughout the year. We also have a number of volunteers that are willing to share their knowledge with your youth.
How Do I Get Started?
The first step is to enroll your youth in GLW 4-H. You can find the enrollment instructions right on this website. However, we prefer that you contact the office so that we can send you one of our enrollment packets. This packet features enrollment instructions, a camp scholarship form, our most recent newsletter and a list of our planned programs and workshops. It also gives us the opportunity to connect with you to learn what you would like to gain from 4-H!
About Us
Nebraska Extension in GLW has two staff that serve the 4-H program in different roles.
Jennifer Epp, 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator
Jen was a 12 year Harlan County 4-Her before joining Nebraska Extension in GLW in 2013. Her favorite projects included Quilt Quest, Swine, Foods, and Favorite Food Revue. As a 4-H Educator, her main passion is teaching leadership development and college and career readiness programs. If you have questions about GLW 4-H, please contact Jen at jepp@unl.edu or 308-346-4200.
Donna Keller, Office Manager
Donna was a 7 year Sarpy County 4-Her before joining Nebraska Extension in GLW in 2015. Her favorite projects were sewing and cooking. As our office manager, her main passion is creating a positive experience for all who come to the extension office. If you have questions about enrollment, county fair entries and workshop registration, please contact Donna at dkeller4@unl.edu or 308-346-4200.