What is 4-H?

4-H is a non-formal educational youth leadership program provided by the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR). The purpose of 4-H is to help young people discover and develop their potential through experiences that will inspire goal-setting skills, develop plans, execute decisions, build self-confidence, resilience, and pro-social skills to better understand one another. 4-H offers an opportunity for members to enjoy learning in family-friendly, safe settings where they can thrive. 4-H is open to all young people and all families, this equal opportunity program and it's Affirmative Action policies ensure fair treatment to all. This guide is designed for new families in 4-H to support a positive experience.

What is the 4-H Pledge?

As a true and loyal 4-H member...
I pledge my head to clearer thinking,
My heart to greater loyalty,
My hands to larger service,
and my health to better living,
for my club, my community, my country, and my world.

What do the "H"s stand for in 4-H?

Head, Heart, Hands, Health

What is the 4-H Motto?

"To Make the Best Better."

Where are 4-H Clubs Located?

4-H Clubs are located throughout San Diego County. 
Click here to find a club near you. 
Can't find a club in your area? Contact our county office at remanzo@ucanr.edu to find out how to start a club.

How does my family sign up for 4-H?

Registration is easy. Click here for the steps on how to register.

What age does my child need to be to join 4-H?

5 by December 31st of the program year. 
Click here to find out more information about 4-H age groups.

Is 4-H just livestock and agriculture?

No! While we do offer agriculture and livestock projects there are also hundreds of other projects in 4-H such as yoga, archery, robotics, STEM, art, fashion design, cooking, sewing, animal care and presentation, and so much more. Projects vary at each club so be sure to check what each club has to offer. 

What are the costs of joining 4-H? 

Enrollment Fee: Each child pays an annual state program fee. This fee contributes to costs for county staff positions, online systems, statewide events and activities, and accident/sickness insurance. For the 2025-2026 program year, the program fee is $75 per Returning Youth if paid before September 30, 2025; $85 Per Returning Youth if paid between October 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025; and $100 Per Returning Youth if paid on January 1, 2026 until the end of the program year. The fee for a New Member is $75 all year.

4-H is open to all youth, regardless of their ability to pay. Program fees can be waived or reduced for eligible youth. Contact your County Extension office at 858-822-7735 or for more information you may visit: Request for 4-H Program Fee/Waiver Reduction.

Project Fee: In most cases youth and parents are responsible for acquiring the materials needed to carry out project activities. Additional fees may be included for some projects, depending on the needs. Some project groups will raise funds to help lower the costs for everyone involved in that particular project. We recommend that families review these costs with club and project leaders before signing up for a particular project.

What kinds of incentives and rewards are offered in 4-H?

4-H promotes participation and excellence through rewarding members of all ages with ribbons, pins, patches, medallions, stars, and certificates. Primary members    (5-8 years old) will receive recognition for participation. Click here for more information on awards and incentives.

How does a 4-H Club Work?

4-H Uniform