Tulare County UC Cooperative Extension 4-H
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4-H'ers Speak July/August 2026

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This newsletter shares timely updates, key deadlines, and opportunities to keep 4-H youth, volunteers, and families informed, celebrated, and ready for upcoming programs and events.

Closing Out the 2025-26 4-H Program Year

As the 2025–2026 program year comes to a close, Tulare County 4-H celebrates another remarkable year of growth, learning, and achievement. This year, 496 community club youth members and 665 youth participating through in-school programs experienced the many opportunities 4-H has to offer; all made possible by the dedication of 127 incredible adult volunteers.

Our volunteers generously shared their time, talents, knowledge, and encouragement, creating meaningful experiences that helped young people develop leadership, life skills, confidence, and a passion for learning. Whether leading projects, mentoring youth, organizing events, or working behind the scenes, their commitment has made a lasting impact on countless lives.

Throughout the year, Tulare County 4-H proudly hosted and participated in numerous events, competitions, conferences, and educational opportunities that showcased the talents and accomplishments of our members. None of these successes would have been possible without the unwavering support of our volunteers, families, community partners, and members.

To each volunteer who invested in the next generation—thank you. Your dedication is the foundation of our program, and your efforts continue to inspire youth to learn, lead, and thrive. We are grateful for all that you do and look forward to another successful year together.  To all youth who participated, made new friends and memories, we hope to see you again this next program year and we love to watch your growth, determination, and learning with you.

Treasurer and Secretary Books Due

Club treasurer and secretary books are due to the office on August 1, 2026.  Please submit books timely as office staff have due dates for annual financial reporting.  Reach out to tularecounty4h@ucanr.edu if you have any questions or need assistance with completing books.  Once books are turned in, new books will be ready for pick up with contents by August 15th.

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2026 Trap and Skeet Match

The annual Trap and Skeet Match on June 6th, 2026 with over 20 youth members participating across junior, intermediate, and senior levels.  Thank you to all shooting sports leaders, parents, and partners for making this event successful!  Another shoutout to youth members who places 1st-5th.

2026 Trap Champion

Reann B. Elbow Creek 4-H Club

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Picture of Reann B.
Photo by Aaron Boyd

Trap shooting is a challenging and exciting shotgun sport that tests participants' focus, accuracy, and consistency as they aim to break clay targets launched away from them at varying angles. Competitors spend countless hours practicing their skills, demonstrating discipline, patience, and safe firearm handling while striving for precision with every shot.

This year, senior competitor Reann B. of Elbow Creek 4-H Club delivered an outstanding performance on the trap range. Consistently hitting target after target, Reann rose above the competition to earn the title of 2026 Tulare County 4-H Trap Champion. Her dedication, hard work, and commitment to the sport were evident throughout the competition, making her achievement a well-deserved accomplishment. Congratulations to Reann on an exceptional season and championship performance!  This exceptional performance added a new belt buckle to her collection.

2026 Skeet Champion

Bryce B. Oakdale 4-H Club

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Photo of Bryce B.
Photo by Wendy kasdorf-Baker

Skeet shooting is a fast-paced and challenging shotgun sport that requires competitors to quickly track and break clay targets launched from two trap houses positioned at different heights. As participants move through eight shooting stations arranged in a semicircle, they must demonstrate precision, focus, and quick reflexes to successfully hit targets traveling at varying angles and speeds.

Bryce delivered an exceptional performance throughout the competition, consistently demonstrating outstanding accuracy and composure on the range. His impressive shooting earned him the title of 2026 Tulare County 4-H Skeet Champion and the honor of receiving the championship belt buckle. Bryce's dedication to developing his skills and commitment to excellence made him a deserving champion. Congratulations on an outstanding achievement!


2026 National Shooting Sports Championship 

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a picture of Kaylee G., Bryce B., Bradley H., and Reid., H. at the national shooting sports competition
Photo by Melissa Smith
Four outstanding Tulare County 4-H Shooting Sports members proudly represented California at the 2026 National 4-H Shooting Sports Championships, held June 21–26 in Grand Island, Nebraska. Bryce B. of Oakdale 4-H Club joined Kaylee G., Reid H., and Bradley H. of Elbow Creek 4-H Club as they traveled with their coaches and families to compete in the highly competitive shotgun discipline.
Earning the opportunity to compete at the national level is a remarkable accomplishment and reflects the dedication, sportsmanship, and countless hours of practice these youth have invested in developing their skills. Tulare County 4-H is incredibly proud of these members for representing our county, our state, and the 4-H program with excellence.


From Shotgun Leader Don O'Dell:

Qualifying for the National Shootings Spots Championship is a great accomplishment for the members of the team, they competed against 135 shotgun shooters from 42 states.  The championship has over 700 4H members competing in 9 events. I would like to thank the team’s sponsors and the parents for making this a great event for the team

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Kicking Off 2026-27 Program Year Together

Save the Dates - Tulare County 4-H 


California Youth Ag Expo 2026

July 29th - August 2nd 2026

Hosted right here in Tulare County at the International Agri-Center in Tulare, the California Youth Ag Expo is a premier event that showcases the talents and achievements of youth involved in agriculture from across the state. The Expo provides local 4-H and FFA members with the opportunity to compete, develop leadership and career skills, and connect with others who share a passion for agriculture. From livestock competitions and educational contests to scholarships and career exploration, the event highlights the dedication, hard work, and bright future of the next generation of agricultural leaders while bringing positive recognition to our local community.  Please send any photos and highlights of achievements to tularecounty4h@ucanr.edu to be featured in the next 4-H'ers Speak Newsletter!


Virtual Volunteer Kick-Off Training

Sunday, July 26th, 2026
4:00 PM – 6:30 PM 
4:00pm - New Volunteer Training Modules
5:00pm - Returning Volunteer Training Modules 
5:40pm - Project plan power point and plan development
6:20pm - Zsuite enrollment support
 
This regional training will be offered in collaboration with multiple counties and will cover:
• Required volunteer training modules for new and returning volunteers
• Volunteer enrollment procedures
• Annual Project Plan development and submission
• Program updates and volunteer resources
This virtual option provides an excellent opportunity for volunteers who are unable to attend the in-person session while also connecting with volunteers from neighboring counties.
 

Zsuite Enrollment - 26/27 Program Year

Zsuite enrollment will open for youth members on August 3rd, 2026 at 12:00pm.  Please refer to our website for information on new and returning youth members.  An important note to remember, to be an active 4-H member, enrollment in Zsuite and a membership fee of $40 for the new program year must be submitted prior to approval.
Tulare County 4-H Website

Adult volunteer enrollment is open now! Ensure you complete all steps to become an active volunteer for the new program year which includes returning volunteer training (40 min) and submitting enrollment in Zsuite.  If you are a project leader, it is also highly encouraged to submit a project plan to your club leader or the county office.
Submit Project Plan Here

 

Tulare County 4-H Family Fun Night

Mark your calendars for an exciting evening of fun, laughter, and fellowship at the Tulare County 4-H Family Fun Night at Boomers in Visalia! Join us on Thursday, October 8, during National 4-H Week, as 4-H families from across the county come together to celebrate another great year of 4-H.

This special event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow members, strengthen friendships, and create lasting memories with the entire 4-H community. Best of all, all event expenses will be covered for active Tulare County 4-H youth members. Membership status will be verified prior to the event, so be sure to complete your enrollment and activate your membership before the festivities begin.

The Tulare County 4-H Administrative Oversight Committee is putting the finishing touches on this fantastic evening. Watch your email for additional details, including registration information and event specifics, coming soon. We can't wait to celebrate with you!


Record Books Due - October 2, 2026

Record books for 25/26 program year will be due to the 4-H office on October 2, 2026.  Record books are for junior, intermediate, and senior level 4-H'ers to help improve skills in record keeping, goal management, and reflection.  Record books also play a beneficial role in utilization during college applications according to many 4-H alumni!  Please fill out the Tulare County intent to submit record book for county judging so the Incentives and Recognition Committee can adequately prepare for the amount of judges needed.

Intent to Submit Record Book Form

Find all record book information here


Ignite 2027 - March 17 -21, 2027

Tulare County 4-H Program Leadership Team is excited to fully sponsor high school aged youth members and chaperones to Ignite by 4-H, a national conference in Washington D.C.  The interest form for youth and adults is due by August 14th, 2026. Ignite tickets will be purchased on August 15th, 2026. There will also be a mandatory planning meeting for all participants at the Tulare County 4-H office on Thursday, November 5th from 6pm-7:30pm. Dinner will be provided.

Ignite Interest Form


National 4-H Week: October 4–10, 2026

Join us as we celebrate National 4-H Week with the 2026 theme, "Beyond Ready." Throughout the week, Tulare County 4-H will recognize the incredible impact of our youth, volunteers, families, and supporters through daily activities and celebrations.

Daily Highlights

  • Sunday: Kick Off National 4-H Week
  • Monday: Go Green Day – Wear your favorite green 4-H attire and show your 4-H pride!
  • Tuesday: Volunteer Appreciation Day 
  • Wednesday: Community Service Day
  • Thursday: Celebrate 4-H Spirit & Family Fun Night
  • Friday: Showcase Your 4-H Projects
  • Saturday: Alumni & Achievement Celebration

Start planning now with your clubs and community partners for ways you can celebrate and recognize 4-H in Tulare County!  Contact Shelley Magana for any questions or ideas you'd like to share at tularecounty4h@ucanr.edu 

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Help Us Recognize Outstanding Members of Our 4-H Community for 25/26 Program Year!

Do you know an outstanding leader, 4-H alumni, Friend of 4-H, or organization that has gone above and beyond in supporting Tulare County 4-H or our local community? We want to hear their story and celebrate the dedication, service, and impact they have made!

Help us recognize these exceptional individuals and organizations by submitting a nomination for a Tulare County 4-H Recognition Award. Your nomination is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on those who inspire others and help make meaningful 4-H experiences possible.
Submit Nominations for Outstanding Recognition 

 

Join Tulare County 4-H PhotoCircle!

We are excited to introduce a new way for Tulare County 4-H families, volunteers, and members to share and enjoy memories from across our program! Through PhotoCircle, families can easily view and contribute photos from 4-H events, activities, competitions, and special moments throughout the year.

This shared photo space will help us celebrate the accomplishments of our members, highlight the incredible experiences happening throughout the county, and showcase the impact of 4-H in our community.

Use the PhotoCircle invitation link or QR code below and join us in capturing and celebrating the moments that make Tulare County 4-H special!

PhotoCircle Invitation

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PhotoCircle QR Code