What is 4-H?

4-H is a non-formal educational youth program, conducted by the University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources (4-H). The purpose of 4-H is to help young people discover and develop their potential, by learning to set goals, making plans and decisions, building self-confidence, and learning to understand others. 4-H offers an opportunity to enjoy learning with family and friends. 4-H is open to all people equally and Affirmative Action is practiced to insure fair opportunities to all. This guide is designed for new families in 4-H to help them have 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 live@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! We have agriculture projects but there are hundreds of projects in 4-H, including yoga, archery, robotics, and art. Projects vary at each club.

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 2024-2025 program year, the program fee is $75 per Returning Youth if paid before September 30, 2024; $85 Per Returning Youth if paid between October 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024; and $100 Per Returning Youth if paid on January 1, 2025 until the end of the program year. It is $75 per New Member 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 for more information.

Project Fee: Most of the time, each child or parent is 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) should only receive recognition for participation. Click here for more information on awards and incentives.

How does a 4-H Club Work?

4-H Uniform