4-H is more than livestock—kids can explore robotics, genealogy, leadership, and more. Find out how to join during Ohio 4-H Week!
Ohio 4-H: More Than Just the Fair—How Youth Can Get Involved
For many, the term 4-H brings to mind images of county fairs, prize-winning livestock, and agricultural projects. But as local leaders are eager to point out, 4-H is much more than just farm life—it’s a diverse, skill-building program that equips youth with leadership, teamwork, and career-readiness skills in a variety of fields.
According to Allison Cooper, Extension Educator for 4-H Youth Development in Crawford County, one of the biggest misconceptions about 4-H is that it’s all about fair week. “Although we LOVE seeing all of the youths’ hard work put on display fair week, it’s the life skills, knowledge, friendships, and memories made that truly make 4-H such a great experience,” she said.
2024 Showman of Showmen Contest Winners- Sydney Stirm, Kendal Widman, Rylinn Edgington
A World of Possibilities Beyond Livestock
While livestock projects remain popular, 4-H offers over 200 projects spanning robotics, genealogy, photography, financial literacy, public speaking, woodworking, and even skateboarding.
One project that has grown in popularity is the “Family History Treasure Hunt”—a genealogy project that allows youth to uncover their family’s past through six years of activities. Cooper noted that many 4-H’ers continue this project for several years, drawn in by the excitement of discovering their roots.
2024 Kelleys Island 4-H Camp- Cabin #4 explored the Glacial Grooves
Life-Changing Opportunities for Youth
Beyond individual projects, 4-H offers a wealth of leadership and career-building experiences that often go unnoticed. Sandy Fankhauser, a 4-H advisor for 35 years, emphasized the program’s role in shaping future success.
“After completing a project, every 4-H member is judged through an interview about their work. It’s a wonderful opportunity to prepare for job or college interviews. Many of our 4-H members are hired on the spot because of their polished interview skills,” Fankhauser explained. “As kids are learning with their projects, they don’t even realize they are shaping their future.”
In addition to project work, 4-H provides unique experiences such as:
- Trips to Sea Camp, Leadership Camp, and Washington D.C. for guided tours.
- Opportunities to serve on Jr. Fair Board, where older youth help organize fair events, present awards, and oversee shows and contests.
- 4-H Camp experiences, where younger kids can attend as campers and older youth serve as counselors.
- The Cloverbud Program for younger members (ages 5 and up), introducing them to hands-on activities and fair contests.
2024 Cloverbud Funday- Youth made fruit smoothies with a bicycle
More Than Just a Club—It’s a Community
Beyond career readiness, 4-H fosters a sense of community and service.
“Community service is a big part of 4-H,” Fankhauser added. “Members learn the importance of giving back, helping those in need, or just making people smile. The skills they learn in 4-H shape them into responsible, caring adults.”
Cooper echoed this sentiment, pointing to activities like the Crawford County Denim and Paws 4-H Club’s Valentine’s Community Service Project, which brought members together to make a difference.
Makenna Murphy from the Buckeye Stars 4-H Club at the Ohio State Fair with her “You and Your Dog” project
4-H Week is Happening Now—How to Get Involved
With Ohio 4-H Week happening right now, it’s the perfect time for families to explore the opportunities available. April 1, 2025, is the deadline for youth to enroll if they want to exhibit projects at the fair, but anyone can join at any time to participate in camps, workshops, and year-round activities.
Fankhauser and Cooper both encourage families to start by finding the right club.
“We always tell kids to visit several clubs and find the best fit—with friends, schoolmates, or sports buddies,” Cooper said. “All Crawford County clubs can be found on the OSU Extension website at crawford.osu.edu, or parents can contact me directly at cooper.2360@osu.edu.”
Fankhauser added that the Crawford County Extension Office is a great resource for finding information about different clubs, meeting times, and activities. Parents can call 419-562-8731 for details.
Crawford County Denim and Paws 4-H Club Valentines Community Service Project
A Program for Everyone
As 4-H clubs across Ohio ramp up for another year, leaders are working hard to spread the message that 4-H is for everyone—not just farm kids.
“Most clubs are starting now and looking for members,” Fankhauser said. “If a child is interested but unsure where to start, we’re here to help.”
With opportunities ranging from STEM to public speaking to outdoor adventures, there’s never been a better time for kids to get involved in Ohio 4-H. Whether they’re looking to explore a passion, gain leadership experience, or just have fun with friends, 4-H has something for everyone.
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