Who can join Ohio 4-H?
Ohio 4-H membership is based on a child's age and grade as of January 1 of the current project year. Eligibility for Cloverbud participation begins when a child is enrolled in Kindergarten and is five years old. Eligibility for participation in 4-H projects and competitive events begins when a child is age 8 and in the 3rd grade. Any youth age 9 or above is eligible for project membership, regardless of grade level. Membership requires enrollment in an authorized Ohio 4-H club or group under the direction of an OSU Extension professional or an approved adult volunteer. A youth’s 4-H eligibility ends December 31 the year he or she turns 19. Joining Ohio 4-H is a privilege and responsibility for individuals and is subject to the Ohio 4-H Code of Conduct and applicable policies of The Ohio State University.
How do I join Ohio 4-H?
Step 1: DECIDE you have the interest, time, and resources and meet the age and grade requirements to join 4-H in your county.
Step 2: CONTACT your County Extension Office. They will help connect you to a 4-H club that meets your needs in your area. Experience 4-H with a friend, invite them to join with you.
Step 3: CONNECT with the respective 4-H volunteer to see if the club is a good fit for your project interests and availability.
Step 4: ATTEND your first club meeting. The 4-H volunteers will provide you with this information.
Step 5: SELECT a project. Choose from over 200 projects that range from healthy living and STEM to leadership and livestock. Members may select 4-H project(s) to explore through club and county activities. Use the Ohio 4-H Project Guide to learn about each and every one. Cloverbud members, age 5 and in Kindergarten until age 8 and in 3rd grade participate in non-competitive activities exploring a variety of fun, hands-on interest areas.
Step 6: ENROLL through 4-HOnline. Work with 4-H volunteers in your club or your County Extension Office to complete the enrollment. Make sure to do this by the county deadline to be eligible for the full range of 4-H opportunities, including county and state fair participation.
Special Needs Accommodations
Accommodations can be made for youth with disabilities through our Winning 4-H Plan.
To make an accommodation request, complete the Winning 4-H Plan Request Form (link below) and send it to your local 4-H Professional.
Winning 4-H Plan Request Form- Two Options:
Print and Write - print this form, handwrite your responses, then send
PDF Fillable - open this form, type your responses, then print and send
Are you a 4-H alum?
Tell us your story! Did 4-H make a difference in your life? Do you get together with other 4-H alumni for an annual reunion or to collaborate on local projects? Share your experiences and how they shaped your life by taking our alumni survey!