4-H Clubs

A 4-H club (chartered by the State 4-H office) is a group of youth enrolled in 4-H, lead by a caring adult leader (who has completed child protection screening), and supported by ISU Extension staff.   A 4-H club carries out youth development learning experience throughout all or several months of the year.

The target audience for club membership is grades 4-12. In Clay County students in 3rd grade may enroll in 4-H and join a club as a participation member. (Participation members may be involved in all aspects of 4-H with the exception of animal projects and competitive events.)

Clubs must have a minimum of 5 members from 2 or more families.

Clubs meet any time (before, during and after school, evenings or weekends).

Club types include, but are not limited to, project/special interest clubs, community clubs, afterschool clubs, and site-based clubs. The club learning experience can be general/and or a specific topic of interest.

Generally 4-H club meetings have four basic parts:

• Pre-Meeting:
• Business Meeting
• Educational Program
• Recreation / Refreshment / Social Activities

Pre-Meeting activities provide a opportunity for youth to become engaged between the time they arrive at the meeting until the business meeting is called to order. A wide array of activities can be utilized and lead by youth or adult leaders.

• Pre-Meeting Ideas   Check out these Pre-Mmeeting Ideas for your next 4-H club meeting!

• Pre-Meeting Recreational Activity Guide:  Word & PDF versions (Booklet Format)

Business Meetings are lead by club officers in partnership with club leaders.  Club members learn how to conduct business using parliamentary  procedure and democratic decision making processes.  

• Club Officer Roles

Educational Program typically relates to 4-H project areas of interest to club members.  The educational component of a club meeting can vary widely based on the interests of club members. 

• Educational presentations by youth, adults, community members, or experts can be an interesting avenue to share knowledge with club members.
• Tours or field trips can serve as a great educational experience.
• Learning by doing workshop or trainings offer a chance for youth to practice and master life skills.
• Citizenship and community service projects are a good way for club members to learn about the community where they live and how to be an involved citizen.

Recreation / Refreshment / Social Activities include a time for club members to develop a sense of belonging and friendships. This is a wonderful way for club members to have fun together in a safe environment. 

• Recreation   Check out these Recreation  Resources for your next 4-H club meeting!
• Refreshment
• Social Activities: In addition to regular meetings, field trips, tours, and special activity days, some clubs also plan social events such as holiday parties, potluck dinners, picnics, parents’ programs, swimming parties, skating parties, trail rides, or campouts. These activities allow members to get to know one another better, help them learn to get along with others, promote team spirit, and are fun!