4-H members learn "life skills" by taking part in:

Project Work - Project work helps members gain knowledge and learn responsibility. By doing project work, youth develop strong relationships with fellow club members and with their own families.

Public Presentations - 4-H members show and tell others how to do something they have learned. Members learn public speaking and communication skills while helping others.

Record Keeping - 4-H members keep a written record of what they have done during the 4-H year. Keeping records helps members evaluate their learning and develop business sense.

Recreation - 4-Hers learn to enjoy life, themselves, and their association with others in social activities.

Community Service - 4-Hers do things to improve their community. 4-H clubs often choose projects in conservation, beautification, safety or health.

County Contests and Fairs - 4-H members can choose to take part in judged contests. For many 4-H members and parents, the Grays Harbor County Fair is the culmination of the year's work and activities.

Exchanges - Exchanges may be arranged with other 4-H clubs throughout the United States or with Japan and other overseas programs.

Who will help me?

4-H members are helped by adult volunteer leaders. Every club has one or more adult leaders who teach, organize, assist at meetings and keep the parents informed about the club activities.

There are variety of leadership roles:

•Main Club Leader - club organizer

•Project Leader - works with members on a specific project

•Activity Leader - responsible for one or more activities, i.e., recreation, public presentations or community service.

•Teen Leader - Works under the guidance of an adult. Helps with activities and events or helps members with their project work.

Adults interested in becoming 4-H volunteer leaders may contact the 4-H office to schedule an orientation meeting and complete the application and screening process.

To learn more about 4-H or for more information, contact:

360-482-2934 or email crieth@wsu.edu