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4-H offers a wide variety of opportunities for teens to develop knowledge, skills, attitudes, and aspirations needed for adult success.
The beginning point for teens to become involved in all 4-H opportunities is through local 4-H clubs. Through these clubs, they have the opportunity to participate in activities that could include projects designed especially for teens, community service and citizenship activities. After that there are many leadership opportunities at the county and state levels including numerous boards, committees, and camping opportunities.
Check out the Older Youth Opportunities Infographic, Brochure or Table for more information!
Some opportunities include:
- Ohio 4-HÂ Conference
- 4-H Event Youth Assistant
- Citizenship Washington Focus
- Leadership Washington Focus
- Collegiate 4-H at The Ohio State University
- Awards and Scholarships
- CARTEENS
- State Fashion Board
- Teen Leadership Council
Here are some potential county level opportunities for teens - talk to your 4-H educator for more information as specific details of these programs look a little different in each county! (click on each item for more information)
In Ohio 4-H, counselors are often 14 to 18 years of age. The counselors are responsible for the safety, well-being, education and fun of the campers. They guide the campers through camp activities and sessions/workshops and are involved with the planning and programming of camp as well. Best practice for Ohio 4-H is a minimum of 24 hours of training with 6 of those hours of training on site. Counselors may serve at overnight, residental camps or day camps.
4-H CARTEENS is a traffic safety program conducted by 4-H teen leaders and their program partners for juvenile traffic offenders. 4-H CARTEENS goals include, reducing the number of repeat juvenile traffic offenders, decreasing the number of teen traffic offenders, and increasing teen awareness of traffic/vehicular safety.
CARTEENS teen leaders assist with facilitation of the program and provide a valuable peer-peer perspective for participants.
Food and Fashion Board members play a role in the planning and organizing of events related to food & nutrition and clothing & textiles 4-H projects. While their specific responsibilities differ from county to county, board members often facilitate workshops, provide assistance at project judging, and serve as mentors to younger members.
Junior Fair Board members play an integral role in the direction of their respective county's junior fair. Junior Fair Board members must be willing and available to dedicate a tremendous amount of time, energy, and effort to the success of the junior fair. These responsibilities often include meetings throughout the year, preparation days, judging events, and the county fair.
Teen Leaders or Junior Leaders clubs or groups provide an opportunity for teens to improve leadership skills while working together in a social environment. Teens increase their skills in leadership, citizenship and community service and also develop social skills through interaction with their peers and adult leaders.
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