The Clinton County 4-H program currently has 177 members and is still building its membership for 2011. New members are enrolling all the time to get a taste of the action. While new members, ages 8-18, are always accepted into the program, they must be enrolled by May 1, 2011 to participate in the 4-H Round Up in August. An Open House will be held at the Ross Library in Lock Haven for those interested in learning more about the local 4-H program. The event will be held on March 15, 2011 from 6pm to 8pm. It is open to the public and will have a wide variety of activities for youth. Those interested may also contact the Penn State Cooperative Extension Office at any time. (570) 726-0022.
The 4-H program focuses on hands-on learning, community service, leadership development and healthy choices all with life skills development in mind. The Institute for Applied Research in Youth Development did a longitudinal study at Tufts University to determine the impact of 4-H on youth. This study concluded that members involved in 4-H were two times more likely to get good grades in school and plan to go to college. They are 41% less likely to engage in risky behaviors and 25% more likely to positively contribute to their families and communities. All of these results show that 4-H has a very positive impact on our local community.
Positive relationships with caring adults are a large part of the success the 4-H program has in providing a positive youth program. Nation-wide, 4-H is supported by 3,500 Professionals and 540,000 Volunteers. Over 50 of those volunteers are involved with the Clinton County 4-H program. Without this adult support, the opportunities for youth would not exist. We are always in search of good volunteers to be a part of the program. Those interested may also use the contact information above to learn more about volunteering in the 4-H program.
