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Ohio 4-H Youth Development

Ohio State University Extension

CFAES

Join 4-H

Who can join?

Ohio 4-H membership is based on a child's age and grade as of January 1 of the current project year. Eligibility for Cloverbud participation begins when a child is enrolled in Kindergarten and is five years old. Eligibility for participation in 4-H projects and competitive events begins when a child is age 8 and in the 3rd grade. Any youth age 9 or above is eligible for project membership, regardless of grade level. Membership requires enrollment in an authorized Ohio 4-H club or group under the direction of an OSU Extension professional or an approved adult volunteer. A youth’s 4-H eligibility ends December 31 the year he or she turns 19. Joining Ohio 4-H is a privilege and responsibility for individuals and is subject to the Ohio 4-H Code of Conduct and applicable policies of The Ohio State University.

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 Fair.

What is there to do?

Members may select 4-H project(s) to explore through club and county activities. Use the 4-H Family Guide to learn about each and every one. Cloverbud members, age 5 and in Kindergarten until age 8 and in 3rd grade participate in non-competitive activities exploring a variety of fun, hands-on interest areas.

Are you a 4-H alum?

Tell us your story! Did 4-H make a difference in your life? Do you get together with other 4-H alumni for an annual reunion or to collaborate on local projects?  Share your experiences and how they shaped your life by taking our alumni survey! 

Special needs accommodations

Accommodations can be made for youth with disabilities through our Winning 4-H Plan.

To make an accommodation request, complete the Winning 4-H Plan Request Form (link below) and send it to your local 4-H Professional.

Winning 4-H Plan Request Form- Two Options:

Print and Write - print this form, handwrite your responses, then send
PDF Fillable - open this form, type your responses, then print and send