FAQ
4-H is a youth development program that promotes hands-on, experiential learning for all youth ages 5-19. Our motto is to “make the best better.” We encourage youth to discover their passions, adopt a growth mindset, practice self-reflection and set goals.
Q) Who can join?
Youth ages 5-19 can join. You must be 5 by Dec 31st of the program year in order to join.
Q) Can adults participate?
Yes, we welcome adult volunteers! Our program couldn’t function without parent chaperones. All volunteers must go through a fingerprinting and training process in order to be 4-H Leaders.
Q) What is a Club?
There are 14 clubs in Sacramento County. Join a club that meets near your house or one that has a monthly meeting that fits your schedule. Each club is unique and it's important to find a club that is the right fit for your family. Club meetings are run by the youth Executive Board and elected each spring by our members for the following year.
Q) How do I enroll?
First reach out to us so we can answer any additional questions you may have such as questions about project sign-ups, then visit our enrollment page and complete your enrollment there. We will connect you with the different projects and add you to our club email group.
Q) When and where are meetings?
Our general club meetings occur on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6:45 p.m, from September through May in Wilton. Project meetings are at various locations such or at leaders' homes.
Q) What is a Project?
4-H projects are like classes that only meet once a month (this does vary depending on the project), and instead of textbooks and tests, project meetings are about hands-on activities, group collaboration, and learning while having fun. Many meetings are led by our Junior and Teen leaders who share their knowledge and research of various topics related to the project.
Q) Is 4-H year-round?
The 4-H program year follows the school year, so most project meetings are held September-May (sometimes June). 4-H Resident Summer Camp is in June as well as 4-H Day Camp. Many 4-Hers spend springtime preparing for Fair, practicing showmanship with their animals or preparing exhibits.
Q) Who runs the 4-H program?
4-H programs are delivered locally through the county University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) offices.The UCCE offices are managed through the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR). UC ANR has been extending research-based information to community partners, farmers, individuals, collaborators, councils and schools for over 100 years.
Q) What activities are offered?
In addition to the Projects and Club events offered through Wilton 4-H, members are also able to join any other project in the county. There are also county-wide 4-H events, including Summer Camp, Presentation Day, Fashion Review and Leadership Overnight. Some of our members are also involved in 4-H at the county and state level. Many 4-Hers are also involved in the Sacramento county fair held in May.
Q) How much time is involved?
The great thing about 4-H is that you can decide how much time you have for it. Some members join one project and attend the monthly club meeting–less than 4 hours a month. Others follow their interests and join a bunch of projects and own animals, which take a lot more time.
Q) Do you have to own an animal?
No! While 4-H is historically agriculture focused, we have many projects that are not animal related. If you choose to join an animal project, the first step is to learn about the animal at project meetings. From there you can decide if you would like to be an owner, chore helper or just a regular project member.
Contact
Are you always looking for new and exciting opportunities? Let's connect.
(916) 825-4321 Robyn McCall