4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM OFFERINGS

Transcription

1 H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM OFFERINGS Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties Schoharie County Office Otsego County Office Otsego Outreach Office 173 South Grand Street 123 Lake Street 31 Maple Street Cobleskill, NY Cooperstown, NY Oneonta, NY (518) / (607) (607) Fax: Fax: Fax: cceschoharie-otsego.org

2 4-H Youth Development Principles The mission of Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development is to create supportive learning environments in which youth and adults reach their fullest potential as capable, competent, and caring citizens. Vision 4-H Youth Development in New York State is a leader in enabling youth to develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and abilities to become productive citizens and is a catalyst for positive change to meet the needs of a diverse and changing society. Patti Zellmer 4-H Program Leader psz2@cornell.edu Kathlyn McCarthy 4-H Community Educator kmm427@cornell.edu Through 4-H Youth Development, youth will: Practice effective problem-solving and decision-making skills Possess positive work attitudes and skills Value diversity Accept community and social responsibility Contribute to positive relationships with families, peers and community Demonstrate communication and leadership skills Value lifelong learning Cornell Cooperative Extension values: 4-H Youth development as the focus of all youth development activities Partnerships that support, encourage and extend the program Volunteers as a cornerstone of the program Diversity in CCE programs Table of Contents 3 Dear 4-H Family Letter 4 Building Skills for a Lifetime 5 4-H Calendar of Events 8 4-H Contributing Educational Events 11 4-H Trips 12 4-H Trainings 13 4-H Projects 14 Cloverbuds 15 What Is 4-H Youth Development? 16 Involving Parents 17 4-H Club Logistics 19 Volunteer Opportunities 19 4-H Recognitions 23 4-H Fund Raising 24 Understanding 4-H Evaluation 26 Annual 4-H Member Portfolio KEEPING YOU INFORMED In an effort to keep 4-H members, families, and volunteers informed of current events and programming the Schoharie and Otsego County 4-H Youth Development Program publishes The Power of YOUth newsletter for Otsego 4-H members and the 4-H Chronicle newsletter for Schoharie County 4-H members 11 times per year. 2

3 Dear 4-H Family: We are pleased to present you with the Schoharie and Otsego County 4-H Program Offerings. This booklet will acquaint you with the various 4-H opportunities available at the county and state level. We invite you to become involved, whether it be through volunteering your time and talents or encouragement and support to your child and his or her 4-H Club. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Cornell Cooperative Extension at: For specific addresses see staff list on page 2. Schoharie County 4-H Youth Development Program 173 South Grand Street, Cobleskill, NY / Fax Office Hours Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. or Otsego County 4-H Youth Development Program 123 Lake Street, Cooperstown, NY Ext. 225 Fax Office Hours Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. or 31 Maple Street, Oneonta (607) Fax (607) Office Hours Wednesday & Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (closed from 12:30-1:30 p.m.) Sincerely, Schoharie and Otsego County 4-H Youth Development Staff Cornell Cooperative Extension Schoharie and Otsego Counties provides equal program and employment opportunities. Accommodations for persons with special needs may be requested by contacting Cornell Cooperative Extension prior to a program. 3

4 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT BUILDING SKILLS TO LAST A LIFETIME 4-H TAKES YOU PLACES... it truly does. This past year Schoharie and Otsego County 4-H ers have traveled to Ithaca, Albany, Syracuse, and other places near and far. Through these travels, 4-H ers gained skills that will build a lifetime of success. The 4-H Youth Development Program is founded on the four H s representing Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. 4-H members pledge their heads to clearer thinking because the ability to think, to plan and to reason enables them to achieve independence of thought and action. Members pledge their hearts to greater loyalty because feeling connected to others in a group creates a sense of physical and emotional safety and develops an awareness of the feelings of those around them. 4-H members pledge their hands to larger service because they need to feel that their lives have meaning and purpose while developing a spirit of generosity. Finally 4-H members pledge their health to better living because their ability to achieve their goals and enjoy their lives depends on having healthy minds and bodies. The H Program Offerings is a directory of the educational programs and activities that help develop youth into successful adults. 4

5 4-H Program Delivery The goal of the Schoharie and Otsego Counties 4-H program is to strengthen 4-H in both counties. The need of specific communities will be addressed. There will be one set of rules and procedures. 4-H programming is dependent on volunteer involvement and may be defined by school district enrollment and regional 4-H districts. 4-H Programing in County There are 3 different categories for 4-H programing. Program categories can be changed according to interest and volunteer availability. Combined both counties participating at the same time in the same location. e.g. Officer Training, Discover 4-H Similar same program/project is offered in both counties but may be held at different times and curriculum may not be exactly the same. Program advertisement will note if the program is available to Otsego county residents, Schoharie county residents or a combination. e.g. Clinics, Bowls, Vet Science, Cash for Crops Unique Hosted in a specific county. Participation may be defined by school district enrollment or regional 4-H districts. Similar program can be developed in the other county. e.g. Robotics, Legislative Interns 5

6 Association 4-H Calendar Events SEPTEMBER Labor Day, CCE Offices closed 13,14 The Farmers' Museum Autumn Harvest Festival 28 DISCOVER 4-H Day! 1-4 pm, Farmers' Museum - Club displays, 4-H promotion 28 Year-End Completion Sheets and 4-H Club Financial Reports (L-18) due to the 4-H Office OCTOBER 1 First day of NEW 4-H year! 4-H Club & Individual 4-H Member Enrollment forms due to the 4-H Office to ensure continuous communication & insurance coverage 5-11 National 4-H Week 4-H National Youth Science Experiment - Rockets to the Rescue 13 Columbus Day, CCE Offices closed State 4-H Educators Professional Development Conference, Villa Roma, Callicoon, NY 23,24 Annual New York State 4-H Agribusiness Career Conference, SUNY Cobleskill 25 Insectapalooza, Cornell University, 9 a.m.-3pm NOVEMBER 8 Officer Training 11 Veterans Day, CCE offices closed 27,28 Thanksgiving Day, CCE Offices closed DECEMBER 5 4-H Club Secretary reports must be postmarked or received today 13 Candlelight Evening at the Farmers' Museum Christmas Holiday, CCE Offices closed 31 New Year s Day observed, CCE Offices closed JANUARY New Year s Day observed, CCE Offices closed 21 Martin Luther King's Birthday observed, CCE Offices closed FEBRUARY Applications are due for 4-H Dairy Discovery Workshop 16 Presidents' Day observed, CCE Offices closed MARCH March Dog Madness Regional 4-H Horse Bowl Hippology (Otsego) Regional 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl Dairy Discovery, Cornell University 1-3 Capital Days 6

7 APRIL New York State 4-H Horse Quiz Bowl New York State 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl 4-H Career Explorations at Cornell Registrations due Applications for 4-H Animal Crackers at Cornell due to 4-H Office State Teen Action Rep. Retreat (STARR), NYS Fairgrounds, Syracuse 5 Easter Sunday 12 Cornell Vet School Open House MAY Animal Crackers at Cornell State 4-H Public Presentations 4-H Calf Sale 25 Memorial Day, CCE Offices closed JUNE Junior Livestock Show Entries Due 1 4-H horse certificates & large animal non-ownership certificates due to 4-H Office 5 4-H Club Secretary reports must be postmarked or received today 30 & July 1,2 Career Explorations at Cornell, Cornell University, Ithaca JULY 4-H Camp Shankitunk Opens 3-4 Independence Day, CCE Offices closed 5-7 Farmers' Museum Junior Livestock Show, Iroquois Farm, Cooperstown 29 Schoharie County Sunshine Fair Static Judging, Cobleskill AUGUST Schoharie County Sunshine Fair Opening Day, Cobleskill 2 Otsego County Fair Static Judging, Morris 4 Otsego County Fair Opening Day, Morris 20 New York State Fair Opens, Syracuse 7

8 4-H CONTRIBUTING EDUCATIONAL EVENTS The following events are offered to enrich the 4-H experience. They complement 4-H Club activities and provide an added and unique educational experience. Events preceded with a are eligible towards the Outstanding 4-H Club Award P are eligible toward the Outstanding 4-H Member Award and ª are appropriate for 4-H Cloverbuds A certificate of participation is awarded to each 4-H participant. Please refer to county 4-H newsletters for more information on dates, times, and locations. NATIONAL 4-H WEEK - The first week in October is National 4-H Week and officially kicks off the new 4-H year and is celebrated throughout the United States. All 4-H Clubs are encouraged to plan and promote the work of 4-H through promotions in your community. These may include educational displays or community service. Let us know what you do! P 4-H TEAM COMPETITIONS - Quiz Bowl is a fun way to learn about a particular animal species. 4-H ers expand their knowledge through utilizing a variety of resources in group sessions. Electronic buzzers are used in game style learning environment to answer questions related to the industry. 4-H ers can work toward participating in the Regional 4-H Quiz Bowl contest and an opportunity to compete at the State level. The Otsego County 4-H Program currently has a Dairy and Hippology Team. It would be great to have a Horse Bowl Team. P 4-H CLUB OFFICER TRAINING - All 4-H Club members are encouraged to attend this session to learn more about conducting an interesting and efficient 4-H Club business meeting. New 4-H Club Officers will receive specialized training in the responsibilities of their 4-H Club Officer role. 4-H leaders and parents are welcome to attend. This workshop is optional for those youth returning to the same office. ª P 4-H HORSE CAMP Last weekend in May/ first weekend in June (NOT Memorial weekend). Hands on clinic WITH horses. ª P 4-H CHRISTMAS TREE PLANTING - For twenty years 4-H members have planted spruce trees on a track of land donated by Glimmerglass State Park. Each year, 4-H members plant more trees, care for them. The goal is to harvest the trees to sell. More trees are planted to replace the harvested trees. P 4-H HOMEMADE HOLIDAYS - Workshops for 4-H members and leaders will present how to make homemade gifts for holiday giving. 4-H EARN-AN-ANIMAL - This program was developed to help youth start a 4-H animal project. Traditional 4-H members are encouraged to apply for the following animals: beef calves, dairy calves, kids, lambs, chicks, piglets, and rabbits. Cloverbuds may apply to earn chicks. All 4-H Earn-A-Project Animal applications are due January 15. The applications will be reviewed and a recipient announced by April 15. These opportunities are subject to sponsorship and in some instances; the recipient may be required to make some financial contribution toward the purchase of their animal. 8

9 P P 4-H DAIRY JUDGING - Do you know what the ideal dairy cow should look like? The skills you learn during dairy judging will help you when buying or breeding your heifer or cow. Those interested may also work towards earning a spot on the County 4-H Dairy Judging Team. Junior and Senior Teams may represent Otsego County 4-H at State Fair. In order to qualify for the team, participants must attend at least one of three barn teaching meetings and three of six judging sessions. Top senior individuals also have an opportunity to judge at national shows. Membership on the county teams is based on participation and rank in other contests. 4-H DAIRY CHALLENGE - focuses on increasing a 4-H ers knowledge of the dairy industry. This includes product and equipment identification, feeds and feeding, farm safety and linear trait evaluation. Members of 4-H Dairy Challenge gain knowledge of the dairy industry throughout the year during team meetings. At the Otsego County Fair, team members participate in the 4-H Dairy Challenge 4-H Youth are divided into novice, junior, and senior level categories where youth are able to test their knowledge. Qualifying individuals may choose to proceed to state and national level competition. ªP 4-H PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS - helps youth develop skills and confidence in organizing, preparing, and presenting a demonstration, speech, or dramatic interpretation. A 4-H project serves as the source of subject matter for a presentation. 4-H Public Presentations begin in February with county events. Youth give their presentations before a team of evaluators and an audience of peers. Selected traditional 4-H ers go on to a regional event. From the regional event 4-H ers age may be chosen to participate in the state-wide public speaking event held at the New York State Fair. P 4-H FOCUS ON CAREERS - This event organized by the Consumer Science Committee will focus on a career or careers in the Consumer Science Project Area. ª P 4-H PROJECT CLINICS - Participants learn new techniques and skills to enhance their project activities. P FARMERS MUSEUM JUNIOR LIVESTOCK SHOW - 4-H ers from Chenango, Delaware, Herkimer, Madison, Fulton-Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego and Schoharie Counties participate in this show which was established by Stephen C. Clark, Jr. in The show is still fully supported by the Farmers Museum in Cooperstown. Youth enrolled in 4-H dairy, beef, sheep, swine, and dairy goat projects are invited to participate. P ª PRICE CHOPPER VEGETABLE MARKETING - The 4-H Price Chopper Vegetable Marketing Program gives youth the chance to grow vegetables in their home garden and earn money by selling vegetables to Price Chopper stores. Golub Corporation (Price Chopper) supplies the seeds and plants. The 4-H Program conducts trainings on garden planning, growing, and how to market the vegetables 4-H'er grows. ª P YOUTH COMMUNITY ACTION - brings young people and adults together to learn, share leadership, take action, and make a difference in their communities. All 4-H members are strongly encouraged to participate in at least one community service activity each year. P 4-H ROBOTICS - The Otsego County 4-H Program offers a variety of robotic activities. All associated robotic workshops, demonstrations, and competitions are eligible as educational events. 9

10 P 4-H CAMP SHANKITUNK - At 4-H Camp you will have fun meet new friends learn about nature make items in the craft hall.cook and camp in the outdoors swim in the pool work in special groups enjoy evening programs. Campers live in units with other campers their own age plus a counselor and have their own responsibilities. Campers register between 2-4 p.m., Sunday and leave after the Friday evening parents program at 5 p.m.. 4-H Camp Shankitunk is located on 165 acres of county owned land along the west branch of the Delaware River near Delhi. Brochures are mailed in the Spring. Pª COUNTY FAIR - The County Fair provides 4-H ers with the opportunity to display project work, and demonstrate skills learned through project work. Exhibits show individual growth and accomplishment, provide social interaction and responsibility and encourage 4-H teamwork and family cooperation. Each 4-H family is supplied a County Fair Book for entering classes. A Guide to Your 4-H Participation at the Otsego County Fair, a booklet full of useful information about 4-H participation at County Fair is available on request. P ª FARMERS' MUSEUM AUTUMN HARVEST FESTIVAL - Celebrate autumn and our horticultural heritage at this 1840 s living history museum. You are invited to participate in this 4-H event in September. All 4-H ers who received packets of heirloom seeds are required to exhibit their crop in any or all of the classes: P Heirloom Vegetable Exhibit P Heirloom Flowers Garden Exhibit P Heirloom Herb Garden Exhibit P Heirloom Three Sisters Exhibit ª Heirloom Pumpkin Exhibit ª Heirloom Sunflower Exhibit P P NEW YORK STATE FAIR - Syracuse. The objectives of 4-H members participating in the NYS Fair are as follows: to help youth learn standards of quality of project work to provide an additional opportunity of recognition of 4-H youth to promote an understanding of the 4-H Program by the public through the showcase of youth in action, as well as exhibits of their project work to provide teens with experiences for social interaction and development to provide teens with a variety of activities that aid in the development of leadership skills responsibilities Teens can apply to be on the State Fair Teen Team 4-H TAKES YOU PLACES TRIPS & ACTIVITIES 4-H ers are invited to create a report, picture, story, poster, or collage to depict a 4-H trip or activity that they took part in. These creations will then be displayed at County Fair in a special 4-H Takes You Places area. Guidelines include: - Trip or activity must have taken place during current 4-H year - Photos, art work, and writing must be done by the 4-H member - Attention should be paid to the technical quality, composition, and story telling ability and preparation of the work - Photographs or digital images shall be larger than 3 ½ x 3 ½. - Work shall be titled or captioned to assist in interpretation of the message - Preparation to demonstrate good workmanship and use of materials 4-H TAKES YOU PLACES DISPLAY - Create a display demonstrating the theme 4-H Takes You Places. Then exhibit this display at the Otsego County Fair in a special 4-H Takes You Places area. Guidelines are listed above in the 4-H Takes You Places Trips & Activities section. 10

11 EXAMPLES OF REGIONAL AND STATE 4-H TRIPS A variety of educational trip opportunities are available to 4-H members to gain new experiences, meet new friends, and explore career possibilities. Applications are available at the 4-H Office. Although we will accept applications for trips at any time, payment for the trip is due by the registration deadline. For specific trip dates and application deadlines please refer to the Calendar of Events on pages H trips are often very popular. Registration will take place on a first come, first serve paid basis. 4-H AGRI-BUSINESS CAREER CONFERENCE Sponsored by 4-H and the NYS Farm Bureau, this experience offers an awareness of the great diversity of agri-business careers. It features insights into natural resources and the academic requirements for professional positions and field visits to regional farms. You'll stay at the Best Western Hotel in Cobleskill and be based at SUNY Cobleskill. This trip occurs in October and is open to 4-H ers who are at least high school freshmen. Applications and payment are usually due September H CAPITAL DAYS Delegates from each NYS county meet in Albany for this two-day government awareness program. The goals of the event are to: achieve a better understanding of the NYS government; create an awareness of career opportunities in state government; gain a better understanding of our county as it relates to NYS; and provide the opportunity for delegates to meet with their legislators. This trip occurs in March and is open to two 4-H ers who are at least sophomores in high school. Nominations and payment are due in early January. 4-H DAIRY DISCOVERY WORKSHOP 4-H youth will participate in hands-on educational sessions and socialize with other youth from throughout New York State. The workshop takes place in late March or early April and is open to all 4-H ers ages This workshop is held at Cornell University. 4-H STARR The State Teen Action Rep Retreat is a threeday fun-filled event where 4-H teens participate in a variety of workshops and activities meant to challenge, excite and further develop life skills. Overall theme and ideas for workshops and activities come from input and efforts of teens and adults serving on the youth and adult STARR planning committee. Youth Voice is what keeps STARR contemporary, fresh and in tune with the youth of today. STARR is open to all NYS 4-H Teens. 4-H ANIMAL CRACKERS An excellent "hands-on" 4-H Animal Science Clinic on the Cornell Campus. Each year two different animal species are the focus of an all day event, which deals with the specific animal's health, products, biology of animal reproduction, good farming practices, and animal ethics. This trip occurs in May and is open to all traditional 4-H Members. 4-H CAREER EXPLORATION AT CORNELL Join approximately 350 teens from across the state for this three-day adventure on campus of Cornell University. Learn about campus life, the many academic departments, and meet others from across the state. Career Explorations offers two programs, Focus for Teens, for teens in grades and University U, for teens in grades 8 & 9. This event occurs in early July, 11

12 4-H TRAININGS/OPPORTUNITIES Throughout the year, 4-H training sessions are conducted for 4-H adults and teen leaders, parents, school personnel or anyone planning to teach particular subject to 4-H youth. We strongly encourage members to attend these trainings to: Gain additional confidence in teaching to youth Learn to share techniques & ideas that work for working with 4-H members To keep abreast of the latest information All sessions are designed to acquaint you with the 4-H projects, offer tips and ideas for teaching to youth, as well as any additional resources available. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. A minimum of five Otsego County 4-H ISSUE COMMITTEES are held at 7 p.m. at the Milford Central School on: September 2 November 7 March 4 May 6 The 4-H Program in Otsego County is made possible with the commitment of 4-H volunteer leaders. One important way 4-H volunteers assist is through participation on a 4-H Issue Committee. Current committees are: Auction, Consumer Science, Dairy Science, Dog Science, Environmental Enhancement, Horse Science, & Livestock/Small Animal Science. These committees assist 4-H staff in identifying program priorities, logistics, and events. Committees are always looking for new members and new committees; contact the 4-H office for more information. 4-H leader training requirement toward an Outstanding 4-H Club Award can be met as a member of a 4-H Issue Committee and attendance at two of the four regular meetings. 4-H PUBLIC PRESENTATION WORKSHOP Watch the Power of Youth for date and location. Schoharie County 4-H PUBLIC PRESENTATION WORKSHOP Watch the Chronicle for date and location. REORGANIZATIONAL MEETING LEADER MEETINGS Leaders meet with 4-H staff quarterly to discuss 4-H events, introduce new club leaders, review policies, etc. Watch the 4-H Chronicle for date and location. November 10 January 12 May 11 ENTRY FEST FOR THE OTSEGO COUNTY FAIR July 11, 10 a.m. MUST Pre-register. Designed for 4-H members, leaders and parents to learn more about the 4-H Youth Development and involvement in the Otsego County Fair. We will answer commonly asked questions, review any fair book updates and changes, complete entry forms and exhibit tags. VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION & TRAINING Watch the Power of Youth newsletter for additional volunteer training opportunities. REORGANIZATIONAL MEETING 12

13 4-H PROJECTS A 4-H project is a unit of work, which is the basis of "learning by doing." Each project consists of a series of hands-on learning experiences on a particular topic. The following 4-H projects are offered in Schoharie and Otsego Counties. Your 4-H Club s Organizational Leader has a detailed list of each project. A 4-H project includes at least 5 activities with a minimum of 6 hours invested in the total project. Citizenship/Cultural Education: Citizenship Public Adventures Cultural Education Three Sisters The Great American Peanut The Humble Potato Rice: Grain of the Ancients The Appealing Apple Simple Gifts Community Service Club Community Service Communication/Creative Arts: Public Speaking/Presentations Theater Arts Adventure A Palette of Fun (Visual Arts & Crafts) Arts & Crafts Photography, Video Home Economics: Child Dev. Child Care Kids on the Grow Clothing & Textiles A style of your Own Clothing Connections Adventures in Clothing Challenges in Clothing Strategies in Clothing Let s Sew Exploring Textiles & Sewing Consumer Education It All Adds Up My Money, My Self Home Environment Environmental Education Nature Trails Development Field Guides made easy Lasting Impressions-Geology Pond & Stream Safari Water Wise Water Worlds Weather and Climate Soils & Soil Conservation Trees: Dead or Alive Know Your Trees Wildlife in Today s Landscape Let s Go Fishing Basic Fly Tying Exploring Freshwater Fish Fishing Birds in Your Backyard Wildlife Discovery Insects All Around Us Forestry Outdoor Ed/Recreation Shooting Sports What about Waste? Composting: Wastes to Resources Recycling Health/Food & Nutrition Health It s Your Choice Food & Nutrition Cooking Up Fun - A Pyramid of Snacks - Muffins & More - Yeast Breads In the Bag Kitchen Science for Kids Six Easy Bites Tasty Tidbits You re the Chef Foodworks Bag of Tricks Micro Magicians Amazing Rays Presto Meals Cloverbuds Cloverbud Projects Cloverbud Exploring Farm Animals Gifts of Gold Teen Leadership Skills Teen Council Animals: Llamas 4-H Vet Science Animal Skills Sheep Animal Skills Beef Animal Skills Poultry Incubation & Embryology Animals Skills Swine Animal Skills Dog Animal Skills Cat Animal Skills Pets Animal Skills Dairy Cattle Animal Skills Goat Animal Skils Meat Goat Animal Skills Horse Horse Science Horse & Horsemanship Animal Skills Rabbits 13 Beef Birds and Poultry Cats Dogs Dairy Cattle Goats Horse & Pony Rabbits/Cavies Sheep Small Animals/Pocket Pets Swine Plant Science Radishes to Riches Grow with the Flow Hydroponics Gardens of Fabulous Flowers Gardening CCS Horticulture Gardening Flower Garden/House Plants Gardens Fruits/Vegetables Ornamental Horticulture Science & Technology In Touch Science - Foods & Fabrics - Plants & Engin - Chemistry & Env. - Fiber & Animal Biological Sciences Insectaganza Know Your Insects Learning about Butterflies Aquatic Science Entomology & Bees Technology & Engineering Fabric Flight Connection Aerospace Adventures Bicycle Adventures Computer Mysteries Electric Excitement Start Your Engines Wood Working Wonders Electric (notebook & kit) Wood Science and Ind. Arts Its Out of This World Astronomy

14 What are Cloverbuds? Cloverbuds are children who explore areas of healthy living, earth environment, citizenship, plants and animals, consumer skills, science and technology, personality development, and expressive arts. The primary goal of the 4-H Cloverbud program is to promote children s healthy development mentally, physically, socially and emotionally. The 4-H Cloverbud program provides an excellent opportunity for your child to reach his or her highest potential because early life experiences, even subtle ones, affect future development. The 4-H Cloverbud program allows for and encourages creativity and play. CLOVERBUD 4-H ACTIVITIES Cloverbud 4-H Club meetings consist of activities rather than projects. A Cloverbud activity focuses on developing a single concept and/or skill. For example, the children might plant a simple dish garden and learn that it will need sun, water and food to stay healthy. An activity such as this would be just one in a series of learning experiences for older children enrolled in an indoor gardening project. A complete set of Cloverbud 4-H Club activity guides for a wide array of activities that are categorized within eight broad program areas are provide to each Cloverbud 4-H Club Organizational Leader. The meeting plans included in these leader materials have been designed to foster the development of the life skills while teaching information and skills related to a particular program area. The activities are appropriate to the developmental level of this age group and they apply the 4-H learning by doing method. Most of the leader guides provide a selection of activities within an individual lesson so that leaders can tailor the meeting plan to the needs and interests of the members, the time available and the meeting place. The activities have also been kid tested so, you can be sure they will work well. 14

15 WHAT IS 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT? What if no youth development programs existed? If we were to develop one using the latest research that would assist young people to become healthy, problem-solving, constructive adults, what would it look like? It would look a lot like 4-H! Using the Essential Elements of 4-H, we create opportunities and environments that meet young people's needs and build life skills. 4-H offers opportunities for Belonging - young people don't just join 4-H...they belong! Youth need to know they are cared about and accepted by others. Youth also need to experience a sense of physical and emotional safety. They need to feel a sense of connection to others in the group. Current research emphasizes how important it is that youth have opportunities for long-term consistent relationships with adults other than their parents. In fact, the research suggests that a sense of belonging may be the single most powerful positive ingredient we can add into the lives of children and youth. 4-H offers opportunities to experience Mastery - young people master skills that are relevant. Mastery includes the development of skills, knowledge, and attitudes followed by the competent demonstration of these skills and knowledge. In order to develop self-confidence and a sense that they matter, young people need to feel that they are capable. They must also experience success at solving problems and meeting meaningful challenges. Mastery is sometimes called self-efficacy. Settings that promote self-efficacy and mastery encourage youth to take risks, seek out challenges, and focus on self-improvement rather than comparing themselves to their peers. 4-H offers opportunities to experience Generosity- young people become active and engaged citizens. Young people need to feel their lives have meaning and purpose. They need opportunities to connect to their communities and learn how to give back to others. As part of this process, youth gain an understanding of others' needs and learn how to respond to these needs. Generosity may also include the development of values such as compassion and tolerance for diversity and the ability to take the perspective of others, and to approach problems as "a member of a global society," through participation in local, and national politics. 4-H offers opportunities to experience Independence- young people have opportunities to choose...and learn to make good choices. Youth need to know that they are able to influence people and events through decisionmaking and action. Independence refers to an adolescent's growing ability to think, feel, make decisions, and act on her or his own. This continues to develop whenever someone is challenged to act with a new level of self-reliance. By gaining a sense of independence, youth develop personal responsibility and discipline. From: National 4-H Headquarters 15

16 Involve Parents 4-H Is A Family Affair. Everyone benefits when parents are involved in the 4-H club program: 4-H members need their own parents support and encouragement to attend meetings, complete projects and fulfill responsibilities to the club. Parents have an opportunity to spend time with their children, and enjoy activities together. In many ways 4-H is a partner in parenting. 4-H leaders have a lot to juggle. Being able to delegate some of those responsibilities, even the smallest ones, can be a big help. The community benefits when families support community-minded organizations like 4-H. Involved families are more knowledgeable about community issues and therefore, more likely to support community efforts as well. Keep these benefits in mind when you invite parents to attend events or to lend a hand. Here are some suggestions on how, when, and who you can ask: Meet with parents at the beginning of each year. This parent meeting may take place before, after or as part of the club s planning meeting. While members should make the final decisions about their projects and activities it is important to know early in the year the ways in which parents can support the club program. Consider using an interest survey and/or activity sign-up sheet to encourage commitment and to keep track of everyone s interests and availability. Maintain good communications. In order for parents to feel like a part of the group and that they share responsibility for its success, they must be kept informed about the when, where and whys of both the club s activities and the 4-H club program in general. 16 Some ways you can stay connected are: Ask parents to assist at club meetings on a rotating basis. You may even want to meet in each (or a few) of the members homes on a rotating basis. Encourage members to ask for their parents help when working on projects at home. Send information sheets home with members prior to special activities such as Public Presentation Day. Include information about the purposes of the program why it is important for their child s personal development and how they can help their child prepare, as well as the basic facts about time and place. Make time to chat with parents whenever they bring their child to a 4-H activity. Create opportunities to get to know parents better. For example, hold parent nights or family days during which members can show-off their accomplishments and you can socialize with parents. Learn about their personal interests, hobbies and family activities. Later requests for help can then be based on the things you know they enjoy and can do well. When you need help: Ask an individual, basing your request on that person s interests, skills and abilities. Be specific on what you need, generic calls typically don t work! Be honest and specific about the time commitment and time frame. Ask well in advance of when the job needs to be done. Regardless of how much or how little a parent has done she or he deserves a thank you. Whether that is delivered in the form of a phone call, a handwritten note or public recognition that may include a certificate or small gift, will depend on what was done and the person s personality one size does not fit all!

17 A 4-H club is an informal, educational youth opportunity, which serves as a hands-on laboratory for helping youth grow in any or all of the following ways: Learning how to make thoughtful decisions Developing a zest and skill for lifelong learning Learning positive socialization skills by working in a group and as part of a team Improving their communication skills Learning and using practical technical skills Acquiring confidence and a positive attitude toward self Enhancing citizenship by developing an awareness and involvement in their community Developing leadership and teamwork skills Exploring possible vocations and careers Learning to manage time wisely and set priorities Interacting with adults who act as role models and have a positive influence on their lives Spending quality time with their parents in a mutually rewarding setting THE 4-H CLUB A 4-H club consists of five or more school-aged youth (ages 5-19) from three different families, facilitated by one or more adult volunteers. The 4- H club s goal is youth development, which encourages life skills that will help youths grow into healthy and productive citizens. How to Organize a 4-H Club: Have five or more members who are the appropriate ages from three different families. Have one or more volunteer leaders (parents, grandparents, interested community members, after-school care providers). New leaders must meet with a 4-H staff for an orientation session, complete a Volunteer Application and have the required reference and background checks. - Complete a 4-H Club Enrollment Sheets, signed Code of Conduct forms, and 4-H Club program (plan for the year) and return it to the 4-H office within one month after organization. New 4-H Clubs enrolling before June 1 will receive credit for the current year. After June 1 enrollment credit will begin for the following year. How to Renew your 4-H Club Enrollment: A representative from each 4-H Club must attend the annual 4-H Club Reorganization meetings (See Calendar of Events) to receive a 4-H Club Reorganization Packet and all of the latest information for the new 4-H year. To derive maximum benefit from the 4-H program and ensure continuous insurance coverage and monthly 4-H newsletters all 4-H Club Enrollment Forms, 4-H Club programs and individual 4-H member Reenrollment Forms are due to the 4-H Office no later than 4:00 PM, October 1. Maintaining Your 4-H Club Submit a secretary report to the 4-H office by mail or electronically, by the 5th of each month. Ensure members maintain Annual 4-H Member Portfolios and optional project records books. 17

18 4-H Club Charters - 4-H Club Charters are awarded to new 4-H clubs that meet the following requirements. The Club must have: 1) A membership of five or more 2) Have a 4-H Club Organizational Leader (Project and Activity leaders are encouraged) 3) Be organized as a club and elect officers (Not necessary for Cloverbud 4-H Clubs) 4) Plan, adopt, and submit a program for the 4-H year to the CCE office. Those clubs who meet the requirements will be presented with a charter soon after the 4-H Club Enrollment Sheet is submitted to the 4-H office. Applications for 4-H club charters can be found on page two of the secretary s book and is included in the new 4-H Club Organizational Packet. Membership Enrollment Policy: - To enroll in 4-H, potential members joining 4-H for the first time have until May 31 to enroll in order to have full benefits of the 4-H program. After this date, a 4-H er is not eligible for participation in the County Fair or Junior Livestock Show. - Returning 4-H members (individual or club) must re-enroll by December 31st. After December 31st, a returning 4-H member is not eligible to exhibit in the County Fair, Junior Livestock Show or for year-end completion. - If for some reason you are not re-enrolled by October 1 (or until you re-enroll) you are not covered by 4-H insurance, you will be dropped from our mailing list and you should not attend any 4-H event. - Re-enrollments not received by December 31st will result in a $5.00 late fee for each re-enrollment; in addition to, County Fair ineligibility, Junior Livestock Show ineligibility, and 4-H Year End Completion ineligibility. Membership Requirements 1. Age In New York State, 4-H club membership includes youth age Cloverbud membership is open to youth ages 5-7. Cloverbuds must turn 5 years-old by January 1 of the 4-H club year. - To enroll as a regular 4-H club member, a youth must be 8-years-old by January 1 of the 4-H club year. - A New York State 4-H member may not re-enroll if s/he will turn 19-years-old before January 1 of the 4-H club year. 2. Residency Youth may participate in 4-H programs in one county only, preferably their county of residence. However, in special circumstances a youth may be allowed to participate in an adjacent county. The staff of each county s Cooperative Extension Office will be in contact with each other to make an informed decision. Independent 4-H Membership Independent 4-H members are 4-H members that do not have a 4-H club affiliation. They work on the projects of their choice at their own pace. They are encouraged to participate in County fundraisers and all of the county sponsored events. They are required to enroll each year as a 4-H Member. This membership option is only open to traditional aged (not 4-H Cloverbud) youth. Independent 4-H Members must identify a volunteer (who has been formally recognized by CCE) who will oversee their 4-H project work. This 4-H leader may be a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, friend, neighbor, etc. See Volunteer Opportunities or contact us for more information. Out of county youth are not eligible to join 4-H as Independent members 18

19 Volunteer Opportunities Schoharie and Otsego County 4-H has a long and proud history of 4-H volunteer involvement. W i t h o u t t h i s v o l u n t e e r involvement our program would not be successful. There are m a n y o p p o r t u n i t i e s f o r volunteers in a variety of capacities in the program. Such areas include 4-H Club Organizational Leaders, 4-H Project and Activity Leaders, office work, chaperoning, etc. All 4-H members have a volunteer that helps the member with the development of life skills. In a 4-H Club setting those leaders are easy to identify, but many volunteer leaders are overlooked. We would like to recognize all 4-H volunteer leaders and ask that every adult and teen who works w i t h i n t h e 4 - H Y o u t h Development Program, whether it be for a few hours, a day or over a long period of time, complete a volunteer application and be recognized for their contributions to the program. If you would like additional information, please 4-H RECOGNITION 4-H Certificate of Completion - to receive this recognition a member must: 1) Complete one 4-H project. A project includes at least 5 activities with a minimum of 6 hours invested in the total project. 2) Present at an area 4-H Public Presentation event OR exhibit 4-H project work at the County Fair 3) Submit a project record book to the 4-H office by September 1. 4) The 4-H Club Organizational Leader, or in the case of individual members, the parent/ guardian, must submit 4-H Year End Completion Sheets, one per member to the 4-H Office by October 1. Cloverbud 4-H Certificate of Completion - to receive this recognition, a member must: 1) Attend at least six 4-H meetings. 2) Complete at least three Cloverbud 4-H activities. 3) Present at an area 4-H Public Presentation event or enter a Cloverbud 4-H exhibit at the County Fair. 4) The Club Organizational Leader must submit Cloverbud 4-H Year End Completion Sheets to the 4-H Office by October 1. Continued on next page 19

20 Outstanding 4-H Club Officer - to receive this award you must complete the requirements for your 4-H Club Office: 1) Attend Officer Training, required for all who are new to their office, optional for returning officers 2) Exhibit your Officer Book at the County Fair «President/Vice-President A notebook with copies of meeting agendas that you have prepared for monthly business meetings «Secretary 4-H Club Secretary s Book «Treasurer 4-H Club Treasurer s Book «News Reporter 4-H Club News Reporter Book «Recreation Leader A notebook with a list of activities you prepared and executed at each meeting as well as a review of that activity. «Other Club Officer A notebook or written article reflecting your role as an officer in your 4-H Club. This should include a description of the job you performed and the frequency. It may also include your suggestions for improving the job and a self-evaluation of your job performance. 3) 4-H Club Secretary s must have monthly 4-H Club Secretary Report s postmarked or into the Office by the 5th of each month for the preceding month. October reports in November, March reports in April etc. 4) 4-H Club News Reporters must send a minimum of three 4-H Club articles to the newspaper. Save a copy of the originals and use them in their 4-H Club News Reporter Book if the articles are not used by the news paper. 5) 4-H Club Treasurer must complete a 4-H Club Financial Statement and return it to the 4-H Office by October 1 of the current 4-H year. 4-H Club Annual Seal of Achievement - A Seal of Achievement to be placed on the 4-H Club s charter is awarded to clubs who have: 1) 4-H Club enrollment sheets and 4-H club programs submitted to the 4-H office within one month after the new 4-H Club s organization or by October 1 for reorganizing clubs. 2) 4-H Year-End Completion Sheets for 4-H Members and 4-H Club submitted to the 4-H office by September 30. 3) 4-H Club Secretary Reports or Cloverbud 4-H leader s reports postmarked by the 5th of each month. 4) A majority of 4-H Club Members complete a year s worth of work from a project. If none are recommended, complete at least five project activities (three for 4-H Cloverbuds) during the current 4-H year. 5) A majority of 4-H Club members present at an area 4-H Public Presentation Event or exhibit 4-H project work at the County Fair. Outstanding 4-H Club - to receive this award you must complete the requirements for the Annual Seal of Achievement, one or more 4-H Leaders must participate in at least one 4-H Training and a majority of the clubs members must participate in at least three of the following: 1) Promotion during National 4-H Week 2) 4-H Club Exhibit at the County Fair 3) 4-H Community Service - these activities are listed on monthly 4-H Club Secretary Report 4) Participate in one of the countywide 4-H fundraising events 5) Area 4-H Public Presentation 6) 4-H Club Officer Training 7) Receive Outstanding 4-H Club Officer 20

21 Schoharie & Otsego Counties 4-H Awards Information 2015 Individual 4-H Awards General criteria for ALL Individual Awards Members are annually eligible for ONE (1) Individual award. Please read each description carefully and apply for the HIGHEST level award for which you qualify. You must submit a completed Leader Recommendation for Individual 4-H Awards and all supporting documentation on or before OCTOBER 1st. General criteria for all Individual 4-H Awards: 1. Must be 8-19 years old. 2. Must have exhibited at County Fair, BOTH a completed Annual 4-H Member Portfolio AND individual Project Records. 3. Must submit a Leader Recommendation and completed Portfolio to the 4-H office on or before October 1. Heart of 4-H (Level 1): To receive this award, member must: 1. Complete 3 projects from at least 2 different project areas. 2. Enter at least 2 exhibits at County Fair (in addition to Annual 4-H Member Portfolio AND individual Project Records). 3. Complete a minimum of 4 hours of Community Service. 4. Participate in COUNTY level 4-H Public Presentations. Above & Beyond (Level 2): To receive this award, member must: 1. Complete 5 projects from at least 3 different project areas. 2. Enter at least 4 exhibits at County Fair (in addition to Annual 4-H Member Portfolio AND individual Project Records). 3. Complete a minimum of 6 hours of Community Service. 4. Participate in COUNTY level 4-H Public Presentations. 5. Spend at least 2 hours on marketing 4-H (i.e.: parades, booths, window displays, newspaper articles). "Making The Best Better" (Level 3): To receive this award, member must: 1. Complete 10 or more projects from 5 or more project areas. 2. Enter at least 8 exhibits at County Fair (in addition to Annual 4-H Member Portfolio AND individual Project Records). 3. Complete a minimum of 10 hours of Community Service. 4. Participate in COUNTY level 4-H Public Presentations. 5. Spend at least 4 hours on marketing 4-H (i.e.: parades, booths, window displays, newspaper articles). 6. Participate in a District or State level event (State Fair, Career Ex, Bowls). Larger Service" (Level 4): To receive this award, member must: 1. Complete 15 or more projects from 6 different project areas. 2. Enter at least 12 exhibits at County Fair (in addition to Annual 4-H Member Portfolio AND individual Project Records). 3. Complete a minimum of 15 hours of Community Service. 4. Participate in COUNTY level 4-H Public Presentations. 5. Spend at least 4 hours on marketing 4-H (i.e.: parades, booths, window displays, newspaper articles). 6. Participate in 3 District or State level events (Presentations, State Fair, Career Ex, Bowls). "And My World" (Level 5): To receive this award, member must: 1. Complete 25 or more projects from 7 or more project areas (cumulative). 2. Enter at least 25 exhibits at County Fair (in addition to Annual 4-H Member Portfolio AND individual Project Records). 3. Complete a minimum of 25 hours of Community Service. 4. Participate in COUNTY level 4-H Public Presentations. 5. Spend at least 6 hours on marketing 4-H (i.e.: parades, booths, window displays, newspaper articles). 6. Participate in 4 District or State level events (Presentations, State Fair, Career Ex, Bowls). 21

22 Schoharie & Otsego Counties 4-H Awards Information 2015 Leader Recommendation for Individual 4-H Awards Due October 1st Club Name Leader Name _ Phone _ Leader Signature Heart of 4-H (Level 1) Name: Year in 4-H: Name: Year in 4-H: Above & Beyond (Level 2) Name: Year in 4-H: Name: Year in 4-H: "Making the Best Better" (Level 3) Name: Year in 4-H: Name: Year in 4-H: "Larger Service" (Level 4) Name: Year in 4-H: Name: Year in 4-H: "And My World (Level 5) Name: Year in 4-H: Name: Year in 4-H: Please attach any supporting comments on any individual applicant 22

23 4-H FUND RAISING POLICY Fund raisers, broadly defined, are selling a useable, useful or edible product usually in exchange for money. For many reasons, we suggest that clubs do not get involved in excessive fund raisers. Being involved with too many fund raisers gives the appearance that you are always selling something; reduces the potential impact of having good results with the County 4H sale. Also, time spent on fund raising detracts from time spent on educational 4-H projects. Top priority for money derived from any fund raising activity should be to enhance the educational program of 4-H. Financial goals and a financial plan of how the club treasury is to be spent are a necessity. All 4-H Clubs must submit in writing a fund raising request form for the approval of their event. This form is provided in the current 4-H Club Organizational Packet. Fund raising request forms should be submitted at least six weeks in advance. Failure to submit this form may result in your club being ineligible for future club fundraising activities. ANNUAL 4-H FUND RAISERS Fund raising plays an important part in 4-H. Each year 4-H Clubs have the opportunity to boost their own club treasuries and support the county 4-H program. These fund raisers help us provide many educational opportunities for 4-H members and leaders, which would otherwise be impossible. We strongly urge each 4-H Club to participate and work toward this common goal. We encourage participation from each 4-H Club (Cloverbuds too) and individual members. 23

24 UNDERSTANDING 4-H EVALUATION Youth join 4-H to learn by doing and be with their friends. One reason why 4-H is so successful is because youth choose the subject matter that interest them. As their participation increases, their learning increases and they begin to assess progress for themselves as well as look to others for evaluation of their work. The evaluation process in 4-H is like real life. 4-H ers set goals, work to achieve them, and reap rewards for their efforts. Having one s accomplishments evaluated should be motivating and educational for the 4-H er. When evaluators critique a 4-H ers work or performance, it serves as a guide to promote further improvement. The evaluation process is probably more valuable than the award or recognition. To plan, practice, and present a finished product is to learn by doing. To graciously accept constructive criticism of one s work is an important life experience. 4-H ers quickly learn that evaluating results reflect a personal opinion, and that evaluations will vary among evaluators. The Danish System of evaluation is the most commonly used to evaluate youth projects. It is the system of evaluation used by the 4-H program. In this system, the evaluators do not evaluate one person s work by comparing it to another s. The evaluation is made against a standard. An evaluator looks to see whether requirements are met for the youth s level of experience and age. If the work meets high standards, it receives an excellent rating and a blue ribbon. A red ribbon signifies very good work and a white ribbon for worthy work that needs some improvement. THE PHILOSOPHY OF EVALUATING IN 4-H WHY DO WE EVALUATE? There are four strengths in evaluation that influence positive youth development: 1. Help youth gain more appreciation of excellence and quality of workmanship. 2. Teach youth and help them improve their talents and potentials. 3. Encourage youth to discover and develop their talents and potentials. 4. Help youth to think critically and objectively about their work and themselves. WHO ARE THE EVALUATORS? Evaluators are people like you. They are people who want to help 4-H members learn. Not all evaluators have the same training and the same background in the same subject matter area and that is why evaluators sometimes differ in their opinions and ideas of how something should be done. You and those youth you interact with need to understand this and accept gracefully their award. The process of evaluating will never be perfect. Evaluators can evaluate only what they see. They cannot know how hard one member has worked or what obstacles another may have had to overcome. So, they must evaluate just what they see according to a standard. They can guess a little about what to expect from members of a certain age or years of experience, but even then there can be a difference of opinion. Learn what you can from the evaluating, but always remember our end product is helping young people to become better citizens. Consider evaluating as a partnership to help youth make the best better. 24

25 4-H DANISH SYSTEM OF AWARDS Youth need motivation and incentives. 4-H leaders who understand this will be more effective in helping youngsters achieve their goals and learn as much as possible from any activity they undertake. Public recognition of work well done, in the form of awards, is one source of motivation. The Danish Award ribbon system, used throughout the 4-H Youth Development Program in New York State, was selected to provide the most incentives and motivation for 4-H participants. This system is very useful in that it makes possible recognition while not encouraging direct individual competition. In an educational program, competition is not always necessary to help youth learn. While receiving ribbons and awards may increase motivation and cooperation, the other rewards received for work well done must also be kept in mind. EVALUATION OF 4-H CLOVERBUD MEMBERS Cloverbuds are younger members of the 4-H Program with club projects and activities designed especially with their ages and stages in mind. 4-H Cloverbuds are between 5 7 years of age. 4-H Cloverbuds will receive the same benefits from evaluation as older 4-H members: reinforcement for learning, skill in public speaking, self-confidence and recognition for a job well done. 4-H Cloverbuds do not compete against their peers. Each Cloverbud is evaluated on his or her own merit. 4-H Cloverbuds will be recognized for their efforts with a special 4-H Cloverbud ribbon. This system includes three core sets of ribbons. The core consists of blue ribbons for excellent work, red for good work and white for a worthy effort. The greatest advantage of this system is that every participant can receive a ribbon. Exhibits are evaluated based on a standard rather than compared to other exhibits. Each work or exhibit is evaluated for its own merits. This system do not allot a percentage or ratio of types of ribbons. Conceivably, if all the exhibits are far above average, all the participants could receive a blue ribbon. Animal science programs utilize the Danish Award system along with class placement. 25

26 SCHOHARIE AND OTSEGO COUNTY 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT ANNUAL 4-H MEMBER PORTFOLIO What is an Annual 4-H Member Portfolio? The Annual 4-H Member Portfolio is an organized summary of a 4-H ers entire 4-H experience. It is a personal record of their accomplishments as a 4-H member. Every 4-H member should make and keep a permanent record of his or her accomplishments. Why complete an Annual 4-H Member Portfolio? The Annual 4-H Member Portfolio organizes written documentation of accomplishments and experiences during the 4-H year. The portfolio will make a good reference for years after a member s 4-H career is complete. It will help 4-H ers as they complete award trips, scholarships, future college, and job applications. Each 4-H ers personal 4-H history as recorded in their Annual 4-H Member Portfolio will help them reflect on how they have grown from year to year, and where they can work To Make the Best Better. Where can I get the Annual 4-H Member Portfolio? Pick up a copy from your local 4-H office in Schoharie or Otsego County. What is the difference between the Annual 4-H Member Portfolio and a 4-H Achievement Book? The Annual 4-H Member Portfolio represents one year of a 4-H members personal 4-H experience. An Achievement Book consists of a collection of Annual Member Portfolios and additional information such as: project records, certificates, etc. Your Achievement Book can be submitted as a exhibit at the county fair. Helpful Hints Use blue or black ink pen for writing. 4-H members may wish to type their information. Apply reinforcements to help keep pages from ripping. Apply them to the back of the page so they do not show. Use Photo Corners for mounting photographs. Do not use Scotch tape. It will dry out and turn yellow after a few years. If you would like to more firmly secure your photos, use double faced photo tape, which is more durable and acid free. Certificates and paper other than normal 8 ½ x 11 paper should be attached to a mounting paper with double-faced tape and/or photo corners. Use index tabs to separate each year. They should be clearly labeled and affixed to the title page for each year. Take your time! Be neat! Keep your pages clean! Crisp, clean pages are more appealing to look at than those with excessive erasures, smudges, or white out. 26

27 NOTES 27

28 Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit # Lake Street Cooperstown, NY South Grand Street Cobleskill, NY H Facts the 4-H Program Year begins October 1 st and ends September 30 th 4-H was founded nationally in 1914 when Congress passed the Smith Lever Act 4-H is a partnership. It is part of a national system and funded at the Federal Level (Science and Education Administration of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture); State Level (Albany through Cornell University). County (local government) and Private (4-H donors to our 4-H private support fund) the 4-H Emblem is a four-leaf clover with a stem and the letter H in white or gold on each leaflet. the 4-H s stand for - Head, Heart, Hands & Health the 4-H Colors are green and white the 4-H Motto is To Make The Best Better the 4-H Slogan is Learn By Doing the 4-H Mission is To enable youth to develop knowledge, skills, abilities, attitudes and behaviors to be competent, caring adults the 4-H Pledge 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. 28