Originated: Dan Tabler, Wicomico County, Maryland 4-H Agent and
Mark Manno, Delaware State 4-H Educator,
1999.
Revisions: Doris Behnke, 4-H Program Assistant, 2005.
The purpose of this Quick Reference Guide is to give 4-H club leaders an easy way to find quick answers to commonly asked questions. Topics are in alphabetical order and often include a suggestion where you can find more information.
Information for words in bold can be found elsewhere in this guide. When the word "4-H" is at the beginning of a topic name, the second word is used for alphabetization.
The words "usually," "often" and "typically" are used frequently in the following answers. This is because every county/unit has the flexibility of adapting their 4-H program to suit their particular needs or procedures. The answers given are for typical situations and may not always be accurate for your county's program. When in doubt, call your Extension Office for clarification.
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Achievement Pins - Pins or medals are used in many counties to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of 4-H'ers, usually related to project work. Generally, pins are awarded to the top 4-H'er(s) in a project area, based on their 4-H record books or resumes. Some counties also present pins to first year members, club officers and designated volunteers. Clubs may award achievement pins their outstanding members at club level awards programs, but must use a generic pin that is different from the achievement pins awarded at the county or state level. Both type of pins are available in the 4-H Source Book (www.fourhcouncil.edu/4hstuff/index.htm). Call your Extension Office for more information on achievement pins and other ideas for other types of recognition.
Achievement Program usually held in the fall. At this event 4-H members are recognized for outstanding work in the county during the previous year. Recognition is based on record books, demonstrations and judging contests from the previous year.
4-H Age - refers to the age of a 4-H'er on January 1st of the current year. The 4-H'er's actual age at the time of the event is also sometimes used to determine eligibility. Generally, if contest guidelines don't specify "4-H Age," the 4-H'er's actual age is used. Call the Extension Office if it's not clear whether "4-H Age" or actual age will be used. To be an "official" 4-H member, a young person must have reached their 8th birthday and not have reached their 19th birthday. Cloverbuds must have reached their 5th birthday and not have reached their 8th birthday. Two age groups are recognized for state competitive events. These are: Junior: 13 or younger as of January 1 of the current year, and Senior - 14 or older as of the current year. County events may have the designations of Beginner, Junior, and Senior for county purposes only.
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4-H Agent - the person employed by Cooperative Extension to manage the 4-H youth development program. May also be called the "4-H Agent."
All Reasonable Efforts - 4-H is a wonderful program for young people, all young people. Everyone in 4-H, including Agents, program assistants, teen and adult volunteers and members, have an obligation to make "all reasonable efforts" to recruit and welcome new members "without regard to race, color, nationality, religion, sex, age or disability." Club leaders are asked to keep a record of club activities to recruit new members. The Extension Office will ask organizational leaders to annually complete a form (simple statement verifying the club is open to all).
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Annual Club Plan - A written plan for the year that includes club goals, activities, meeting program topics with a time table and a list of who is responsible for each task is an excellent method of insuring the club's success. The annual plan will help the club have a good balance of programs and activities, allow for contacting special speakers well in advance, make it easier to schedule important activities such as demonstrations and public speaking and avoid the all too typical last minute panic when nothing has been planned for tonight's meeting. Writing an annual club plan may seem like unnecessary busy work until you begin using it. The best time to write the plan is the first or second meeting (usually September or October) of the new 4-H year.
Awards - Everyone likes to be recognized for a job well done, for perfect attendance, most improved performance, faithful service and many more good reasons. Four-H'ers and volunteers can be recognized at the club level, the county level and occasionally at the state or national level. Clubs are encouraged to hold family nights where members can be recognized for their accomplishments. The actual award can be a pin from the 4-H Source Book (www.fourhcouncil.edu/4hstuff/index.htm), an achievement ribbon, a certificate, etc. A creative leader will find some way to recognize every active member. Four-H'ers are recognized on the county level at the annual 4-H Achievement Program usually held in fall or winter. Most awards are based on a 4-H Project (Record) Book, portfolio, or resume the member has completed that documents the work they've done throughout the year. A few outstanding 4-H'ers will receive recognition on the state and national level in the form of trips and scholarships. For more information see "Recognition in Youth Programs: Helping Young People Grow." See also "Member Recognition."
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Bowl Teams - 4-H provides numerous opportunities for members to learn much about a subject while having fun competing on a bowl team. Four-H bowls are patterned after "College Bowl" and "It's Academic" television shows. Most bowl teams compete with others their same age (see 4-H Age). There are usually five members on a bowl team with four competing and one as an alternate. Typically county winners advance to state contests. There are currently bowl contests for poultry and horses.
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Camp - One of the best educational experiences 4-H provides is summer camp. There are two kinds of camps that 4-H offers: day camp and overnight camp (State 4-H Camp at Camp Barnes). Most of the camp staff are teen and adult volunteers which makes 4-H camp very affordable. Scholarships are often available. The program features a variety of activities including crafts, classes, organized games, sports and, in the case of overnight camp, special evening programs that often feature campfires. Four-H day camps are also available in various locations in New Castle County and around the state. Day camps vary in format from five days for one week to one day a week over the entire summer. Call the Extension Office for more information about resident and day camps. Camp applications for all camps are usually available around March 1.
Camp Barnes a residential camp in Frankford, Delaware, owned by the State Police and leased by 4-H for overnight camp, usually during the last 2 weeks of June. The camp generally sleeps around 100 and has a dining hall, bath facilities, recreation hall, ball fields, pond, archery range, swimming pool, basketball court, and a campfire circle. The camp is located on Miller Creek and has canoes and paddle boats for campers as well as a ropes course.
Camp Counselor Program a training program offered by 4-H for teens who wish to become counselors at summer 4-H day camps.
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Cecil Breeders Fair a 4-H show held at the end of May or early June at the Fair Hill Recreation Area in Cecil County, Maryland. The show includes dairy, sheep, swine, beef, horse, dog and rabbit shows. New Castle County 4-H members are eligible to enter.
CHARACTER COUNTS! - The purpose of this citizenship program is to civilize our young to become good people and productive citizens. The program was developed by the Josephson's Institute of Ethics and is built on the "pillars" of Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Justice and Fairness, Caring and Civic Responsibility. For more information, visit the Maryland 4-H Character Counts! site (www.agnr.umd.edu/CES/4h/update/february/ccounts.htm).
Citizenship Washington Focus - Is a national 4-H event held at the National 4-H Center during June and July. There are seven different sessions offered at a cost of under $500. This excellent week long event is open to high school age youth, not just 4-H'ers. Those attending CWF will increase their leadership skills, gain a much broader understanding of citizenship, learn a great deal about their nation's capitol and the federal government and have fun. Call 800-368-7432 to learn more about CWF or visit 4-H Council's Web Page (www.fourhcouncil.edu/4hcenter/cwf/cwftop.htm).
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Cloverbuds - This is a relatively new 4-H program in Delaware designed for youth between the ages of 5 and 7 (grades K-2). Cloverbud Clubs may be stand alone or as part of an existing community or project club. When part of a regular club, Clovers should have their own "hands on" activities separate from the older members. Cloverbud clubs do not elect officers or hold business meetings. Cloverbuds do not participate in competitive events or keep record books. Cloverbuds may participate in the State Fair and similar events, in non-competitive activities, and may receive participation ribbons. Cloverbud curricula are available for volunteers to use with Cloverbud groups
Club Constitutions and By Laws - A constitution and/or set of by laws is a good way to assure that everyone has the same understanding of the goals and rules of the club. A club constitution or by laws must include the "open to all" statement found above in the Affirmation Action section. The constitution and by laws should be written so as not to exclude anyone or have unrealistic attendance or participation rules. University of Alabama extension has an excellent publication (http://www.aces.edu/fourh/ForVolunteers/4-H-Vol-05.pdf) that includes a sample. Call the 4-H Agent for additional information.
Club Leaders - It takes a team of leaders for most 4-H clubs to be successful. The team leader is the Organizational Leader. This person makes sure the club meets on a regular basis, helps keep members informed, and encourages participation in county and state events. Project Leaders are those teens and adults who have skills or knowledge in particular project areas such as foods, photography, woodworking, sewing, animals, etc. Project leaders work primarily with those members enrolled in projects in which they are "experts." Activity Leaders, as the name implies, are the folks who organize club activities including fund raisers, service projects, family nights, club awards programs, trips, etc. Teen Leaders are valuable members of the club leadership team and are often responsible for one or more of the tasks described above.
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Club Meetings - All 4-H clubs are encouraged to conduct regularly scheduled meetings to conduct the business of the club. The officers and the adult leader should plan the meeting agenda ahead of time. The club president typically runs the meeting based on the planned agenda. Meeting Components include a get-acquainted activity, pledges, secretary and treasurers report, old and new business, announcements, and a planned program. Meetings often wrap up around refreshments.
Club Officers - Most clubs elect (usually in October/November or January/February) a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer and reporter. Other officers, who may be elected or appointed, can include committee chairs (program, telephone, health, safety and conservation, etc.), song leaders, game leaders and sergeant of arms. Officers usually serve for one year. The use of a nominating committee is a good way to help elect the right people for the right job and avoid a popularity contest. The use of a paper ballot is recommended. Officer training for one club or a group of clubs can be arranged upon request.
Code of Conduct - Prior to participating in any 4-H activity or event, 4-H members and their parents must read the Code of Conduct and then sign it. The code lists prohibited activities including the possession/use of drugs, alcohol or tobacco products, endangering other participants, destruction of property, breaking curfews, etc. The code also includes the penalty for violating the Code of Conduct and the provisions for appeal.
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Colors - The official colors of 4-H are green and white. Green was selected because it is nature's most common color and stands for life and growth. White represents purity and high ideals.
Community 4-H Club - A community 4-H club usually includes five or more members and two or more adult volunteers who live in the same general area. These clubs have no one project focus, as do project clubs (livestock, horses, shooting sports, etc.). Community clubs usually meet once a month in a public building such as a church or fire hall. Members of community clubs take a variety of projects and usually work on them at home under the supervision of a parent or older family member. Club members elected as officers conduct the meetings.
Contests - For those who like competitive events, there are lots of contests in 4-H. Most competition is by age group (see 4-H Age). While competing is fun for many 4-H'ers, the real purpose of every 4-H contest should be educational. While optional, competition is and has always been an important part of 4-H. In recent years, an increased emphasis has been placed on cooperative events for those not interested in competition. Here's a partial list of 4-H contests: public speaking, project demonstrations, bowls (horse and avian) and judging teams (horticulture, livestock, consumer, etc). There are also horse shows, livestock shows, dog shows, poultry and rabbit shows, bicycle, automotive and tractor operators contests. Call the Extension Office for a complete list of county, regional, state and national 4-H contests.
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Cooperative Extension Service (CES) - The Cooperative Extension Service (www.reeusda.gov/1700/statepartners/usa.htm) became "official" in 1914 with the Smith/Lever Act. Four-H is one of CES's major programs, along with agriculture and family and consumer science. Delaware Cooperative Extension is part of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Delaware and Delaware State University. Funding for Cooperative Extension, including 4-H, is a cooperative effort from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the University of Delaware and the County.
County Extension Director (CED) - The County Extension Director is responsible for the overall Cooperative Extension program in the county. He/she supervises the faculty and staff, maintains the budget and facility, is the liaison with County Council and is the primary contact with the University. Usually, the CED also provides leadership for one of the three main program areas (agriculture, family and consumer science or 4-H). The Director of Extension appoints the County Director.
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County 4-H Leaders Association All three counties in Delaware have very structured leaders associations with officers and committee chairs. The purpose for a 4-H leaders organization is usually to assist in the overall county 4-H program planning, implementation and evaluation. Membership is usually open to all interested teen and adult volunteers. A county 4-H leaders association is a good way to improve communications, involve more people in the planning process and spread the work load. County 4-H leaders associations are often the primary fund raisers and activity sponsors of the local 4-H program. In New Castle County, the 4-H Leaders Association meets on the 4th Monday of each month from August to May.
CSREES - Cooperative States Research, Education and Extension Service is the USDA agency responsible for 4-H and Extension. CSREES/USDA is our federal partner. A small group of National 4-H Program Leaders provide overall leadership for a wide variety of programs conducted at the state and county levels. CSREES also coordinates a number of programs with National 4-H Council. Call 202-447-5516 to learn more about CSREES or visit the web page (www.reeusda.gov).
Danish System the method of judging most commonly used in 4-H. In this system, each 4-H'er or 4-H exhibit is judged against a standard, not against other 4-Hers. Ribbons are awarded on the scale of blue (excellent), red (good) and white (fair). Thus is a class of 10 lamps, there may be 10 blue ribbons or any combination of blue, red and white.
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Delaware 4-H Foundation a private foundation with a volunteer board that raises money to support 4-H programs and activities in Delaware.
Demonstration - A project demonstration is a great way to introduce 4-H'ers to public speaking, a valuable life skill. Every 4-H'er should have the opportunity to present at least one demonstration each year at a club meeting. A demonstration, also known as a visual presentation, is somewhat like show and tell. members should choose something they've learned in their project they'd like to share with the club, such as how to make cookies. A good demonstration has three parts: introduction, body and summary. Posters may be used to help explain something not easily seen or when a list of information is provided, such as a recipe. The annual County Demonstration Contest is organized with 4-H'ers competing against others in their same age groups (see 4-H Age). For more information see Taming the Demonstration Lion (ag.udel.edu/ncc/4h-demolion.html).
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Dues - If dues are collected, all of the money is collected by the club treasurer and stays in the club treasury. There are currently no county, state or national 4-H dues, membership fees or enrollment fees. If a club decides to collect dues, the amount should not be so high as to make it difficult for members to pay them, particularly when several members of the same family belong to the club. If dues are collected, there should be a budgeted purpose for the money, such as accident insurance, resource materials, special club activities, etc.
E.A.C. - The Extension Advisory Council is made up of at least 12 citizens who represent a diverse cross section of the county/city. Members typically include representatives from major program areas including 4-H, agriculture, family and consumer sciences and a member of County Council. Members serve for a three year term and may serve two consecutive terms. The purpose of the group is to review existing county Extension programs and make recommendations for future programming.
ES237 The annual 4-H enrollment report that all counties are required to submit in October of each year. County enrollments are combined into a state enrollment, which is then forwarded to USDA (CSREES) and Congress.
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EFNEP (Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program) an educational program in food and nutrition offered by Cooperative Extension. EFNEP Aides visit individual homes to conduct nutrition education as well as offering group programs including summer camps.
Emblem - The official 4-H emblem is a green four leaf clover with a white capital H on each leaf. This emblem is copyrighted, as is the name 4-H, and may not be used without permission. USDA must approve any use of the name or logo at the national level; the State 4-H Leader must approve the use of the name and logo at the state level and the county 4-H Agent, at the county level. Clubs planning to use the clover or name on clothing, signs, banners, etc. should call the Extension Office before placing an order. For more information see "The 4-H Name and Emblem - Guidelines for Authorized Use" (ag.udel.edu/ncc/4h-lore.html).
Embryology program offered to schools, 4-H clubs and other groups to teach science through the hatching of eggs (usually chicken and duck). For more complete information visit the 4-H Embryology Web Site (ag.udel.edu/ncc/4h-embryo.html).
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Enrollment - All 4-H members and volunteers must complete an enrollment form when they join 4-H. Members and volunteers re-enroll each year, usually in September /October. After the form has been reviewed and updated, the member or volunteer signs and dates the form. The whole process takes just a couple of minutes. The purpose of enrollment is to gather information for the 4-H for the monthly newsletter and other mailings and to make sure the county and state receives credit for all members and volunteers enrolled. There is no charge to enroll.
Environmental Overnighter an overnight educational experience for younger members (ages 8-12) that focuses largely on environmental education. This event has recently been held in June.
4-H Events - There are a large number of 4-H activities, contests and events available at the club, county, state and national level. New events are being continually added while those no longer needed are dropped. A good way to learn what's currently available on the county level is to read the NCC Youth and Family News. For national 4-H events visit the National 4-H Council home page (www.fourhcouncil.edu) or the National 4-H site (www.reeusda.gov/1700/programs/children.htm) under CSREES. See also "Contests" above. You may also call your Extension Office.
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Extension Office - The County Extension Office is usually thought of as the headquarters for the county 4-H program. In New Castle County, it is located in Newark (ag.udel.edu/ncc/ncc-map.html). The Kent County office is in Dover and the Sussex county office is in Georgetown. Extension Agents, program assistants and secretaries are located there. Many 4-H materials and resources are available at the County Extension Office. Meeting space for 4-H clubs, volunteer groups, etc. is often available free of charge at the Extension Office.
Favorite Foods A fun 4-H activity usually held in the winter. In this activity, 4-H members submit a recipe and meal plan 2 weeks before the event. On the day of the event, the 4-H'er brings in the item made from the recipe for judging. Additional foods-related activities are also available that day.
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4-H@Udel.Edu the email address for the NCC 4-H program staff.
Fund Raising - Most 4-H fund raising occurs at the club level with the money raised kept in the club. Try to make fund raising an educational activity and only do it when money is needed for a club project, activity or other special purpose. First determine the amount of money needed and then the best activity to raise that amount. Raffles are not encouraged and may require a permit. DOOR-TO-DOOR SALES ARE NOT PARTICULARLY SAFE AND SHOULD BE AVOIDED.
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Health Forms- All overnight 4-H events and many other events require both youth and adult participants to provide a current health statement that is valid for up to 6 weeks. Download the 4-H Health Form from our web page (ag.udel.edu/ncc/4h-healthform.html). The form requests typical health related information such as who to call in an emergency, the name of the family physician and dentist name and telephone numbers, vaccination dates, allergies, medications, etc. The form also requires written parental permission for activities such as swimming. Both youth and adult forms are confidential and available only to the designated medical provider and event director.
4-H History - see the Delaware 4-H History page (ag.udel.edu/ncc/4h-ndel.html).
Insurance, Accident - Before conducting any special activities, including club trips and community projects, insurance to cover accidents and illness should be purchased. There are several insurance companies that provide this coverage at very reasonable rates ($.23 per person per day, for example). The year 'round policy at $1 per member, which covers all 4-H activities including meetings, is an even better idea. Insurance can be paid individually , from club dues, or from a club fund raiser. Call the Extension Office for more information about accident and illness insurance.
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Judging - Judging is a popular activity for many 4-H'ers. State supported judging contests include: dairy cattle, livestock, horticulture, poultry, horse, clothing, foods, photography, wildlife, and woodworking . Judging can be done as an individual and/or as a member of a team. Training packets are distributed to leaders in the winter. Usually the 4-H'er will be asked to rank four animals or items in a class using a variety of criteria. In many cases, the 4-H'er must explain his/her decisions by giving the judge Oral Reasons (see definition). Judging contests can be very competitive and provide a good opportunity for 4-H'ers to learn a great deal of very useful information about their project. County contests are held in the spring. The top 10 4-H members in each contest are invited to participate in the State Fair.
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Junior Council a group of teens from clubs all over the county who meet on the fourth Monday of each month to plan different activities and events and community service projects.
Land Grant Colleges and Universities - In 1862, an Act of Congress assigned tracts of land to each state. The proceeds from the sale of this land was to be used to establish colleges in each state to teach agriculture and mechanical sciences (engineering). A second Land Grant Act was passed in 1890 to better serve minority students. The Land Grant Act of 1994 provides educational opportunities for Native Americans. The University of Delaware and Delaware State University are Delawares land grant institutions.
Leader Handbook Handbooks are updated periodically and are available through the Extension Office (NCC 302-831-8965). There should be one handbook in each club.
Life Skills - Learning skills that will be valuable and useful for a lifetime is the real purpose of 4-H. Ideally, every 4-H activity helps 4-H members learn a life skill.
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Links - The highest honor a 4-H member or volunteer can receive is to be invited to join the Links. You would be nominated because of your outstanding service to 4-H. Links are usually inducted in the fall at the county Achievement Program.
Master Gardeners An organization of volunteers trained and supported by Cooperative Extension in each county. New Castle County's Master Gardener (ag.udel.edu/ncc/mg/) volunteer Agents support youth programs in teaching classes, judging, offering grants etc.
Member At Large - It's possible to be a 4-H member without belonging to a club. The Member At Large designation is usually reserved for 4-H'ers who don't have a 4-H club near their home or because of a physical disability or family situation that makes it difficult to attend 4-H meetings. Members At Large are eligible to participate in all 4-H activities and have the same opportunities as any other member.
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Member Recognition - The purpose of recognition is to encourage and support the efforts of young people in learning to improve their knowledge and develop their life skills. The National 4-H Recognition Model, part of a comprehensive plan which rewards positive learning behaviors in youth, includes five types of recognition: 1) participation; 2) progress towards personal goals; 3) standards of excellence; 4) peer competition, and 5) cooperation. (Also see Awards)
Membership youth in third grade or 8 years old, whichever comes sooner, are eligible to enroll in 4-H. Cloverbud members are ages 5-7 (grades K 2). Youth who reach their 19th birthday before January 1 of the current year are no longer eligible to participate as 4-H members.
Membership Card - A membership card is available, upon request, for all 4-H members and volunteers. These cards may be used for identification and sometimes for free or reduced admission to and for 4-H related purchases at some businesses. The card is good for one year and requires the 4-H Agent's signature. Please call the Extension Office in advance if a large number of membership cards are being requested.
Mission Statement - The Delaware 4-H Youth Development Program provides a supportive setting for all youth to reach their fullest potential. Youth learn beneficial cognitive and life skills (see Life Skills) through community-focused, research-based experiential educational programs. Achievement of this mission will create competent, caring, responsible individuals.
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Motto - The 4-H motto is "To Make The Best Better."
Multiple Club Membership - a 4-H member may belong to more than one 4-H club. Membership in a community club and one or more project clubs in not unusual. However, a 4-H'er should not join more clubs than they can actively support. In some cases, a member may belong to 4-H clubs in more than one county, usually because a particular project or activity isn't offered in the member's home county. Members who belong to clubs in more than one county must declare a "home county" for the purposes of competition. For example, members are not usually allowed to compete in two county public speaking contests or represent two counties in a judging contest. Please call your 4-H Agent for details and clarification of multiple club membership, especially where membership in two counties is involved.
National 4-H Center - This modern conference center is operated by National 4-H Council (www.fourhcouncil.edu/4hcenter/index.htm) and located at 7100 Connecticut Avenue in Chevy Chase, MD, just a few blocks from Washington, DC. A wide variety of 4-H educational programs and activities are offered at the 4-H Center, including National 4-H Conference, Citizenship Washington Focus and Wonders of Washington. Four-H Clubs and families are welcome to stay at the 4-H Center on a space available basis. The National 4-H Center is one of the safest places to stay in the city and its rates are among the most affordable. Call the National 4-H Center at 301-961-2840 for more information.
National 4-H Conference - This event is held at the National 4-H Center in the spring and is attended by the top 4-H'ers in the nation. At National 4-H Conference (www.4-h.org/4hconf/), teen delegates take the lead by serving on consulting groups to make recommendations for future directions for 4-H and by accepting responsibility on one of the operations committees to help conduct the events and functions of the Conference. Activities include a visit to Capitol Hill and a meeting with their senator or representative. Teens interested in this event must complete an application, due December 1. Most expenses for this event are provided by the Delaware 4-H Foundation. This event is sponsored and conducted by National 4-H Council.
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National 4-H Congress - what most people consider the premier 4-H experience. Participants are usually selected because of their outstanding accomplishments in 4-H, especially related to leadership and citizenship. Teens interested in Congress must apply, submit a record book and have an interview. In recent years, Delaware has sent a delegation of 10-12 teens. Most expenses for 4-H Congress are provided by the Delaware 4-H Foundation. The location for National 4-H Congress (www.agnr.umd.edu/events/DistEd/4hcong.html) for many years was Chicago. Currently it is located in Atlanta, Georgia. This event is sponsored and conducted by the State 4-H Leaders from around the U.S.
National 4-H Council - Council is one of two of 4-H's national partners, the other being USDA. Among the Council's responsibilities is raising funds to support a wide variety of programs and activities. Council operates the National 4-H Center in Chevy Chase, MD, the "4-H Source Book" (aka 4-H Catalog/4-H Supply Service) and conducts a large number of educational programs including Citizenship Washington Focus and National 4-H Conference, both held at the National 4-H Center. Council also provides leadership for marketing 4-H including the Youth Voices And Action campaign with the National Advertising Council. Visit National 4-H Council (http://www.fourhcouncil.edu) on the Web or call 301-961-2825 for more information
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National 4-H Week - The first full week in October is when over 6 million 4-H'ers nationwide celebrate with special activities including window displays, community projects, attending a church service as a group, field trips, outings and more. National 4-H Council (www.fourhcouncil.edu). In October, January, April, and July, brainstorm with other club members to find fun ways to celebrate 4-H week!
NCC Youth & Family News a newsletter sent out to 4-H members and volunteers. The newsletter lists all the important activities happening in 4-H.
Non-Resident Members - 4-H'ers are not required to live in the state where they are 4-H members. For example, many Delaware 4-H members live in Maryland or Pennsylvania. Four-H membership in another state usually happens because the member's home county does not offer the programs or activities the member wants. For purposes of competition, the member is required to claim a "home county." In some cases, multi-state 4-H membership may be possible. Call your Extension Office for details.
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Northeast Regional 4-H Leaders Forum - a yearly regional training forum for volunteer 4-H leaders from the Northeast. The forum runs Thursday evening through Sunday morning. The forum is partially sponsored by J.C. Penny Co. and rotates through each state in the northeast region.
Oral Reasons - Oral Reasons are usually associated with judging contests, especially livestock judging. Oral reasons are a good method of teaching public speaking, particularly extemporaneous speaking. After a 4-H'er has determined the placing of the animals in the class, he/she verbally explains to the judge why the animals were placed in that order.
Organizational Leader a volunteer who organizes and coordinates the functions of a 4-H club.
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Parents - Active, involved and interested parents are essential to a successful 4-H club. The best way to get parents involved is to ask them personally. If you can't meet with them face to face, a telephone call is the next most effective method. Sending a note home with a 4-H'er or just making a general plea for help doesn't often work. When asking parents to help, be specific as to what you want them to do, let them know how much time will be involved, and when their obligation is over. The more specific you are, the more likely you are to get help. Once parents have volunteered to help, give them a job and get out of their way. If you're always the one doing everything, others will usually be happy to let you keep doing it!
4-H Pledge - The official National 4-H Pledge (http://ag.udel.ed/ncc/4h-pledge.html) is: "I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service and my health to better living for my club, my community, my country and my world." To make the pledge, 4-H'ers stand and place the right hand to the head, followed by the right hand over the heart, then both hands with palms up held out at waist level and lastly with hands at the sides. The 4-H pledge is used at the beginning of every 4-H meeting and most 4-H activities. The original pledge was adopted in 1927. The words "and my world" were added in the mid 1973.
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Project - Much of the important learning in 4-H happens as part of a project. Members of community clubs work on a variety of projects, usually at home under the supervision of a parent or older family member. Project club members (horses, livestock, sewing, shooting sports, etc.) all take the same project and do some of the work at club meetings. There are dozens of 4-H projects available on just about every topic of interest to a young person. Project manuals are available for most topics and may be ordered from the Extension Office. Project manuals are free to enrolled 4-H members.
Project Club - A 4-H Project Club focuses on one or a group of related projects. Project clubs may exist for just about any subject or project young people are interested in. Typical project clubs include livestock, horses, photography, dogs, shooting sports, sport fishing and more. Project club members come from all over the county, and sometimes neighboring counties. The theme of most meetings relates in some way to the project.
Project Leader a volunteer teen or adult who guides 4-H members in learning experiences in a specific project area.
Project Record - See Record Book.
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Public Speaking - One of the most important things a young person can learn in 4-H is public speaking. Many 4-H'ers first experience public speaking when asked to give a report at a club meeting. Project demonstrations are great for helping expand public speaking skills. There are county and state contests for public speaking. A 4-H'er must win at the county contest to be eligible to compete in the state contest. Contestants compete in one of the categories with others their same age (see 4-H Age).
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Record Book - The record book, also known as a project record, is the method used for helping 4-H'ers learn the important life skill of record keeping. A project record has two major parts. The first is the Members Summary Record. This is the section where general 4-H information is recorded, such as offices held, number of meetings attended, committee assignments, etc. This is a cumulative record with the work in subsequent years being added to the page. The second major section is the project report, which is different for each project. In this section the 4-H'er will report what he/she wanted to learn, what was actually done and what skills were learned. The record book also has a section for a 100 word story, photos documenting project work, correspondence and news clippings. A standard 3 ring binder is a good way to keep the information organized. It's best to keep records as the work is done throughout the year, rather than trying to remember everything that was done just before the record book is due. Record books are usually due in early September. Most 4-H Awards are based on record books. Older members (14+), complete a record book for state competition instead of a county record book. For more information call your Extension Office or see samples of 4-H Record Books on line (ag.udel.edu/ncc/4h-rb-recordbook.html)
Ribbons - Ribbons are commonly used as an award for 4-H project exhibits, record books, livestock shows, horse shows, demonstrations, public speaking, etc. Ribbon colors sometimes vary but generally a blue ribbon is given for first place, red for second and white for third. Green ribbons are sometimes used as a reward for participation if the member does not win a blue, red or white ribbon. Additional ribbon colors are used when additional places are awarded. For example, the State Fair recognizes six places in some livestock events. A purple rosette is often presented to the best exhibitor in a class, section or department. Ribbons are available from a variety of suppliers including the 4-H Source Book. Clubs may purchase ribbons for their own mini-fairs and exhibits. A limited number of ribbons may be available from the Extension Office for a small fee.
4-H School Enrichment an educational program offered either by 4-H staff or volunteers during a school during class hours. One of the most popular school enrichment programs is embryology (ag.udel.edu/ncc/4h-embryo.html)
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Seeing Eye Dogs These dogs are bred and trained by the Seeing Eye Inc., Morristown, N.J. to assist the visually impaired. Some Seeing Eye puppies are raised by 4-H members. Guiding Paws (ag.udel.edu/ncc/4h-clubs/guiding.html) is a NCC 4-H that raises these puppies. Four-H members usually receive a puppy (German shepherd, Laborador retriever, or golden retriever) at 8-12 weeks of age and raise the puppy for about 14 months before the dog is returned to Seeing Eye Inc. (www.seeingeye.org) for training.
Slogan - The 4-H slogan is "Learn By Doing." The best way to really learn a new skill is by doing it--not reading about it, hearing about it, or watching someone else do it. We now call this "Experiential Learning" which is just a fancy way of saying what 4-H folks have known for over 90 years - learn by doing. In the 1951 publication "Guide Posts For Local 4-H Leaders," T.A. Erickson, former Minnesota State 4-H Leader and one of the founders of 4-H nationally, shares these additional slogans: "To win without bragging, and to lose without squealing." "Plan the work - work the plan." "To beat my own best record." "To be a willing follower or a worthy leader in my turn." "To be your own best exhibit." These slogans may be old but their messages are timeless.
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Smith-Lever Act - This act, passed in 1914, created the Cooperative Extension Service (CES). The word cooperative in the agency's name is well chosen. CES is a somewhat unique organization with funding cooperatively provided by federal, state and local partners. Authors of the act were Congressmen A. Frank Smith of South Carolina and Senator Hoke Smith of Georgia.
4-H Special Interest Groups - Similar to a project club in that all members take the same project or are all involved in the same activity. Special interest groups meet for only a short time and do not generally have officers.
4-H Source Book - the nationally-distributed catalog of the National 4-H Supply Service, a division of National 4-H Council. The 4-H Source Book offers hundreds of products including a wide range of 4-H clothing, jewelry, paper products, pens and pencils, awards, project materials and just about anything else you can think of - all with the 4-H logo. The Source Book can be used like any other catalog including placing orders by phone using a credit card. The Source Book is an excellent source of Christmas and birthday gifts for active 4-H members and volunteers. Call 301-961-2934 to request your free 4-H Source Book.
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State Fair - The Delaware State Fair (www.delawarestatefair.com) is held over nine days in the summer, usually in late July. The fairgrounds are located in Harrington (Sussex County) on U.S. Route 13. All 4-H'ers may enter exhibits in any of the hundreds of categories available. Pre-registration is required and all blue ribbons receive a premium. A premium book is usually available in May. The State Fair is the largest 4-H event of the year. It includes many contests and activities, including judging, demonstrations, horse and livestock shows and much more.
4-H Statistics - 4-H is a big organization with over 6 million members in the U.S. in 1997. A little more than a third (35%) live in small towns and in the country. Towns of 10,000 to 50,000 are the home of 22% and 21% live in the suburbs of large cities. Only 12% live on farms. Over 1.5 million are members of 83,000 clubs and another 1.6 million are in special interest groups. The largest program in 4-H is school enrichment with 3.45 million members. The largest project area is plants and animals, closely followed by healthy lifestyles and science and technology. Girls make up 52% of all 4-H'ers. Leadership is provided by nearly 625,000 teen and adult volunteers. For more 4-H statistics see page 70 of the "1999 4-H Source Book."
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Tax-Exempt Status - Four-H clubs are not required to pay income tax and do not have to file a tax statement unless an income of $25,000 or more is normally received in a given year. Tax law is complicated and cannot be thoroughly covered here. Please call your Extension Office for more complete tax-exemption information. See "Tax-Exempt Status of 4-H Organizations Authorized to Use the 4-H Name and Emblem," USDA Program Aid Number 1282.
Teens - With school sports and activities, jobs and everything else that competes for a teen's time, it's often difficult keeping them actively involved in 4-H. Many counties maintain teen clubs that provide opportunities for interaction with teens from all over the county. Teens are a wonderful resource and can be a leadership asset to any club. A good way to keep them involved is to give them important jobs and getting out of their way. Teens often relate to younger members better than adults. See State Teen Council and Teen Focus for more information.
Teen Leaders teens who assist organizational and project leaders in guiding a 4-H club or by leading a club or project group on their own. They also give leadership to county events.
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Teen Weekend an overnight activity held annually for teens ages 13 and up. The program usually involves leadership training as well as program planning.
Transporting 4-H'ers - There's obviously some risk in transporting 4-H'ers, but it can be managed by using good judgment and common sense. If your club doesn't subscribe to year-round accident insurance, request an insurance form from the Extension Office prior to the trip. Volunteers arranging for transportation must check to make sure all drivers have current licenses and safe driving records. Drivers must be at least 21 years of age. Before starting the vehicle make sure all passengers have their seat belts buckled. Never transport more passengers than you have seat belts for. Obey all traffic rules including the speed limit. Make sure the parents of those you are transporting know their child will be riding with you, the destination and when you will return. Try to avoid transporting just one child. Have a plan for dealing with parents who are late to the pick-up site. Never leave a 4-H'er unattended!
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4-H Value Set - We believe in these values: youth development, partnerships, volunteerism, and diversity
4-H Vision Four-H is a world leader in developing youth to become productive citizens and catalysts for positive change to meet the needs of a diverse and changing society.
Window Display Contest a promotional activity held during National 4-H Week in October, 4-H clubs are invited to create displays promoting 4-H in the county. The winner is announced at the Achievement Program. The top three winners represent the county at the State Fair in July. Contact the Extension Office for more information.
4-H Year - The Official 4-H Year in Delaware is October 1 September 30. Most clubs reorganize in September or October as 4-H gets back into "high gear" with the beginning of school. Call your Extension Office for details.
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Copyright © 1997-2003 NCC Cooperative Extension. Last revised February 16, 2005.
It is the policy of the Delaware Cooperative Extension System that no person shall be subjected to discrimination on the grounds of race, color, sex, disability, age, or national origin.