Members develop skills & knowledge in dog show handling
 
Lindsay Chichester.

A message from Lindsay Chichester, your 4-H Leader

I am a 10-year member of Extension's 4-H Youth Development Program, as well as a ranch-raised, fourth-generation agriculturist.

4-H heavily influenced the trajectory of my life and my career. The skills I learned here gave me advantages throughout college and continue to shape my professional career. I am humbled and honored to now be in a leadership role for the program.

4-H is a community of young people across America learning leadership, citizenship and life skills.

All children face risks as they grow and develop, and most children can benefit greatly from positive interactions with caring adults. Children who have strong interpersonal skills and support are less likely to participate in risky behaviors, such as drug and alcohol use, early sexual involvement and dropping out of school.

For more than 90 years, Extension has administered a 4-H program in Nevada, part of one of the largest youth organizations in the U.S. Many 4-H alumni have become elected state officials, legislators and teachers, contributing greatly to the state and their communities. 4-H is a learn-by-doing life-skills program that teaches youth communication, self-concept, team-building, problem-solving, decision-making, self-responsibility, conflict resolution, aspiration-building, goal-setting, community leadership and career development. The youth learn through projects, in or after school, in a variety of subjects ranging from animal science to nutrition, leadership, public speaking, horticulture and other science and technology programs. Through these projects and interactions with other youth and leaders, 4-H youth learn how to make good choices, feel good about themselves, think critically and become leaders.

How to Join 4-H

Who can join?

Youth ages 5 to 19 as of January 1 of the current year, may join.

Where do I sign up?

Join a club in your county, near your home or school. Experience 4-H with a friend, invite them to join with you. Contact your county Extension office to enroll today.

When should I sign up?

Join anytime! But join by the county's 4-H enrollment deadline to take advantage of all 4-H opportunities including participation in the Fair.

What is there to do?

Members, age 9 to 19 as of January 1 of the current year, select 4-H project(s) to explore through club and county activities. Cloverbud members, age 5 to 8 participate in non-competitive activities exploring a variety of fun, hands-on interest areas.

Does it cost anything?

Your out of pocket costs for participating in 4-H will include one or more of the following types of expenses:

  • Project Book/Resources — Project books/resources may be available through your county Extension office, so ask your 4-H staff member.
  • Project Items — Supplies, materials, equipment, animals, facilities and other resources needed to complete the 4-H project learning experience.
  • County Activity Fee — Per member fee determined by the County 4-H Program.
  • Club Dues/Fees — Per member fee charged by some clubs used towards refreshments, project book costs, Fair pass, club t-shirt, supplemental insurance, etc. Please ask the club advisor about their 4-H club fee structure.
  • 4-H Events & Opportunities — Fees charged for participation in events and opportunities such as camps, workshops, conferences, trips, etc.

What are the benefits?

Members learn life skills, make new friends, enhance self-esteem, achieve personal goals, develop positive relationships with peers and volunteers, and have fun learning and sharing as a family and a club.

Nevada Stakeholder Perceptions of Youth Educational and Mental Health Needs During the Pandemic

Calling for 4-H Volunteers

Volunteers offer the nurturing, vision, commitment, skills, creativity, dedication and wisdom that can significantly impact the development of young people

Learn more about becoming a 4-H Volunteer

Need to contact a 4-H representative?

Meet the 4-H leadership team

Lindsay Chichester
Program Leader & Contact
Jacob DeDecker
Program Leader & Contact
Sarah Chvilicek
Program Contact
Nora Luna
Program Contact
Kenny Haack-Damon
Team Member
Rachel Kaiser-Schoen
Team Member