What is 4-H?
4-H is a volunteer-led organization that reaches boys and girls through small groups called clubs all around America and the world. Parents, other adults, and youth lead young people to develop social skills, confidence, decision-making abilities, and expand on unknown subject matter. 4-H members decide for themselves which projects and areas they want to learn more about. Most projects through 4-H use hands-on learning techniques to each subject matter and life skills.
What is a 4-H club?
To join 4-H, you must belong to a club. Clubs are the foundation of the 4-H program. A 4-H club is a group of five or more youth guided by one or more adult volunteer leaders. A club can be any size, from a small group of kids from one neighborhood to a larger club consisting of youth from all over the county. Historically, 4-H clubs were based on location, bringing together youth from the same area. Nowadays, travel is not as limited, so a club may be selected based on meeting times available, or projects and services offered. Most 4-H clubs have meetings for the entire membership (general club) once a month. During these meetings, decisions are made about group-sponsored activities such as community service efforts, project opportunities, and fundraising efforts.
When is the 4-H year?
The 4-H year begins October 1st and ends September 30th.
Participation in 4-H
What is the minimum age to join 4‑H?
Youth may join 4‑H if they are at least 5 years old by December 31 of the enrollment year or are enrolled in Kindergarten. Members may remain active through one 4‑H year following their high school graduation.
What are club general meetings?
Club meetings are held monthly, usually consisting of a short business discussion along with recreational and educational opportunities. During club meetings, youth strengthen life skills like decision-making, public speaking, and cooperation, which will help them become effective citizens and leaders in our community. Our club meetings are led by our officers, who are youth members elected into position at the September club meeting. Members are encouraged to vote, make motions, and participate in the business meetings. As a club, we also work together on community service activities; meet new friends; and most importantly is to have lots of fun.
How much does it cost to join the Kirchhayn Trotters 4‑H Club?
Annual dues are $10 per member or $25 per family for three or more members. Dues are collected at enrollment in October and help cover insurance, county and state 4‑H programming, and select club activities.
How often does the club meet?
The Kirchhayn Trotters meet on the first Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church.
Is attendance required?
Members are expected to attend at least 50% of club meetings. We understand that school activities, family commitments, and illness may occasionally prevent attendance. Members with a valid excuse should contact the General Leader by the day following the meeting.
What if my child has special circumstances that affect participation?
We recognize that every family’s situation is unique. Attendance and participation exceptions may be considered for circumstances such as extended illness, college attendance, or other special situations. The General Leader and club officers work with families to find appropriate solutions whenever possible.
What activities are members expected to participate in?
To make the most of the 4‑H experience, members are encouraged to actively participate in club life by:
- Serving on at least one club committee
- Participating in at least one fundraising activity
- Taking part in at least one community service project
- Giving a talk, demonstration, or project presentation each year
These activities help members develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills.
What are club community services?
Our members participate in projects that support local individuals and families, helping them develop a lifelong commitment to giving back to their community. Some examples are: making blankets as part of the January meeting, food pantry donations, caroling at a local nursing care facility, and more. You will hear about these events at the club meetings.
What do I need to know about the fair?
The fair is the culmination of the 4-H project year. Because our club is chartered in Washington County, every member enrolled in 4-H must exhibit in at least one project at the Washington County Fair. The Washington County Fair is held on the Tuesday through Sunday of the last full weekend of July, and is located off of Hwy 45 and Pleasant Valley Road. Every member enrolled in 4-H must exhibit at the fair in at least one project. In addition to exhibits, there are many other opportunities for members to support the fair. For more information about the fair, see the Washington County 4-H website.
4-H Projects
What are Cloverbuds?
Children ages 5-8, or those in Kindergarten through 2nd grade, participate as Cloverbuds. This program introduces young members to 4‑H through age-appropriate activities that encourage learning, exploration, and creativity.
What is a 4-H project?
A 4-H project is a series of hands-on learning experiences in which youth learn subject matter and life skills. There are so many 4-H projects available that at times it can feel overwhelming. A good rule of thumb is to select an area of interest to the youth, as they will explore that project for the 4-H year. Projects are done both individually and as a group.
Which projects are available at the club?
Our club has a variety of volunteer leaders who enjoy working with youth, love to share their knowledge, and are super enthusiastic about teaching and learning. Arts and Crafts, Foods, Dairy, Crocheting, Rabbits, Knitting, Robotics, Photography, and Vegetables are some of our current club projects.
Can I participate in projects that are not at the club?
Of course! There are many projects available in 4-H that our club does not have a leader for. These projects can be self-guided, which means that the member pursues the project independently, directing their own learning utilizing high-quality, research-based literature with support of a parent/guardian.
The other option is to participate in projects at a county level. There are a number of projects that are offered on a county level in addition to or instead of the club level. Leaders will communicate with all enrolled project members throughout the county. They hold educational meetings, activities, and other opportunities and these leaders also serve as a great resource for questions. Members can participate as little or as much as they would like – but please note that there may be requirements specific to each project. For example, all countywide animal projects have specific expectations that must be met in order to have the privilege of representing 4-H at the Washington County Fair. For a listing of projects available at the county level, please see the current Enrollment Guide book available online.
Are members expected to follow a code of conduct?
Yes. All members are expected to follow the Wisconsin 4‑H Code of Conduct and Behavior Agreements to help maintain a safe, respectful, and positive environment for everyone.
Awards & Recongition
What benefits do members receive?
Members who successfully complete club requirements may:
- Receive a year completion pin or award
- Be eligible for club and county funding opportunities through volunteer activities
- Receive reimbursement for Washington County Fair admission wristbands or tickets
- Gain valuable leadership, communication, project, and community service experience
How do I learn more or join?
We are always excited to welcome new families! If you’d like to learn more about the Kirchhayn Trotters 4‑H Club, our projects, meetings, and membership opportunities, please contact us.