4-H SPARK EXPO

4-H SPARK EXPO is...

• four days and three nights of fun and learning.
• a chance for youth to develop valuable skills, make new friends, and fuel individual growth. 
• a first glimpse of the premiere college and career readiness program, Ohio 4 H Pathways to the Future.
• a collaboration between Ohio 4-H and the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences.
• jam-packed with career exploration sessions designed just for us!
• CFAES WOOSTER CAMPUS VISIT!

WHEN: June 11-14, 2025

WHERE: Nationwide & Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center, 2201 Fred Taylor Drive, Columbus, OH 43210 on the OSU Columbus campus

COST: Thanks to generous financial support from the Ohio 4-H Foundation and others, the registration fee is $75.

CAREER EXPLORATION DAY

One day will be devoted to exploring possible career choices offered through Ohio State’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. Youth will attend four sessions assigned from preferences reflected on their registration form.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

To attend, youth must meet the following criteria:

• Complete 8th grade OR 9th grade at the end of the 2024-2025 school year
• Willing to experience in-depth action learning in specific interest areas
• Be eager to share new ideas with 4-H members back home
• Participate in additional Ohio 4-H Pathways to the Future programming throughout the upcoming year

First Time Campers Register Here!

Spark EXPO is intended to be a 1-time experience, if you would like to return for a second year you may add your name to the waiting list by using the link below.

Returning Campers Register Here!

Payment is due no later than April 25 to be considered a complete registration. Health Forms are included in registration.

Ohio 4-H SparkEXPO Junior Residential Advisors

The Ohio 4-H SparkEXPO Junior RAs are a group of 4-H teens selected to assist in being responsible for campers in grades 9th and 10th during Ohio 4-H SparkEXPO. As a result of participation, counselors will develop knowledge, skills, attitudes and aspirations needed for adult success, and the Ohio 4-H Pathways to the Future Program will be strengthened and expanded.

Applications are due February 1 by 11:59 p.m.

WHO CAN BE A Junior RA?

Counselors must be at least 16 years old by the start of SparkEXPO.

4-H Alumni (19-20 years old) are also welcome to apply, too, and will need to complete the counselor application, complete the required online counselor trainings, attend the required meeting, and have a BCI background check conducted, and on file with their local county Extension Office. Having previous Ohio 4-H SparkEXPO experience is not required, but is preferred.

Apply Here!

Don't forget to share https://go.osu.edu/sparkcounselorreference with your references. They're due February 1, along with all the other submission requirements.

Please note: One reference must be your local 4-H professional, 4-H volunteer, and/or Ohio Teen Leadership Council Advisor.