Faith Kroschel, Colorado State University Extension
Youth and in Boulder County age 5 through 18 have the exciting opportunity to get involved in area 4-H clubs and projects. 4-H programs offer immense benefits to kids including building confidence, enthusiasm and leadership skills. Here in Boulder County, more than 300 youth are enrolled in the Colorado State University Extension’s 4-H program in 2022. As the nation’s largest positive youth development program, 4-H teaches through hands-on learning and self-guided projects.
Starting at age 5, kids can join 4-H and start building the skills they need to succeed in life. Through hands-on projects and activities, kids learn teamwork, leadership and civic responsibility. They also develop communication skills and learn to work with others. 4-H helps kids build healthy habits and make smart choices for a lifetime. 4-H members participate in age-appropriate activities throughout the year and also participate in the communities around them through service-learning projects and community activities.
Mentors and adult volunteers provide guidance, ask questions, share their knowledge and give encouragement to the youth in the 4-H program. In 2022, Boulder County had 175 adult 4-H volunteers involved in local youth programming. These adult volunteers drive our members to greater understanding and engage them in their communities.
Members and volunteers participate in a club setting, where 4-H participants meet together with a qualified leader to plan and learn on a regular basis about multiple aspects of their 4-H experience.
Boulder County 4-H is proud to offer a full range of projects for every interest area. 4-H members can learn to bake, decorate cakes, exercise their artistic abilities, learn about small engines, plan a garden, raise livestock animals or learn about training a companion animal. There is something for everyone in 4-H!
If you are interested in joining 4-H in your area, contact the Boulder County Extension 4-H office by email at [email protected] or visit boulder.extension.colostate.edu/4h for more information.
By Faith Kroschel is an Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development at the Colorado State University Extension Boulder County. For more contact CSU Extension at the Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Road in Longmont, call 303.678.6238 or visit boulder.extension.colostate.edu.
