Join Frederick County 4-H
Enroll in Frederick County 4-H
Virginia 4-H is open to all youth who are between the ages of 5 and 19 as of October 1 of the program year.
Members may participate in Virginia 4-H, regardless of their state of residence. Many Virginia 4-H members live in neighboring states! However, they may only participate in competitive 4-H activities (horse shows, livestock shows, etc) in the state in which they are a member.
- New 4-H members: Contact Frederick County Extension office (number listed below) before beginning the enrollment process. They will assist you with identifying available clubs and answer questions you have regarding Virginia 4-H.
- Returning 4-H members: All families may enroll or re-enroll ONLINE after October 1. If you have any questions about the online re-enrollment process, please contact Frederick County extension office. If necessary, paper enrollment forms may still be submitted.
Do not use Internet Explorer when enrolling online.
(Family & Volunteer Enrollment Guide and Instructions)
(Club Leader login tip sheet)
Paper Enrollment Forms
Frequently Asked Questions
4‑H empowers young people with the skills to lead for a lifetime. It’s a research-based experience that includes a mentor, a hands-on project, and a meaningful leadership opportunity. Based on their interests and guided by adult mentors, youth develop their own pathway in 4‑H. They select from a broad menu of local 4‑H programs. There are hands-on, learn-by-doing, opportunities for everyone.
In 4‑H programs, kids and teens complete hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Kids experience 4‑H in every county and parish in the country through in-school and after-school programs, school and community clubs and 4‑H camps.
4‑H’s reach and depth are unmatched, reaching kids in every corner of America – from urban neighborhoods to suburban schoolyards to rural farming communities. Our network of 500,000 volunteers and 3,500 4‑H professionals provides caring and supportive mentoring to all 6 million 4‑H’ers, helping them grow into true leaders today and in life.
Join a local 4-H club — 4-H clubs are groups of youth who meet regularly to work on 4-H projects, perform community service, develop leadership skills, and learn to work together. Guided by one or more adult volunteers, a club can be any size, from a small group of neighborhood kids to a large group from a school or county. Visit a club meeting in your area before joining and see what 4-H has to offer!
Participate in 4-H Camp — Every summer youth are invited to participate in a 5-day overnight camp at the Northern Virginia 4-H Educational Center in Front Royal.
4-H is a publicly funded program of Virginia Cooperative Extension. Some counties and clubs charge a nominal membership fee (check with your local county Extension office.)
Project costs vary, and many don't require a big investment. For example, members enrolled in crafts might use supplies from around the house to practice the skills they are learning; therefore, would have no additional expenses. 4-H'ers who buy and keep a horse, however, might have to make a large investment.
Capable, caring adult volunteers are always needed to help lead and assist with 4-H activities. Orientation and training are provided, so no previous experience is necessary. 4-H volunteers are supported by a professional staff, including 4-H Program Coordinators and 4-H Extension Agents. There are also various 4-H support and advisory groups made up of interested adult volunteers.
All adults who work with 4-H youth must complete the Volunteer Selection Process, including a criminal history check.
Here is our Frederick County Club database
Enroll in Cloverbuds
The 4-H Cloverbuds program is designed to introduce children age 5 to 8 to traditional 4-H programs. Cloverbuds learn by doing in this informal, non-competitive, educational program conducted by Virginia. Cloverbuds helps children get along with each other, explore many interests, practice skills and build self-confidence. The 4-H Cloverbud program is open to all youth regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, or handicap. The curriculum is designed for children in kindergarten through second grade.
In addition to regular club activities and meetings, Cloverbuds participate in a number of county activities, including the Frederick County Fair. Because the program is non-competitive, members are not evaluated on their efforts but are recognized for their participation.
Cost: It does not cost to join Cloverbuds. 4-H curriculum and training are provided to interested parents at no cost. Clubs can determine on their own whether or not to charge dues.
Meetings: Cloverbud clubs meet in members’ homes or neighborhood locations. Meetings, conducted informally by parent leaders, are typically held twice a month but can be held more if desired. Meetings usually last one hour and include pledges, songs, games, learning activities, and a snack.
Additional Information
4-H Clubs typically meet once per week or once per month, although some may choose to meet more or less frequently. 4-H programs are available for children ages 9-18. 4-H Cloverbud programs are available for children ages 5-8. The 4-H year runs from October 1st-September 30th
Can I start a new Frederick County 4-H club?
You may start a new club with enough interested young people and an adult or two to help! Hold a meeting with any interested children, parents, and adults, and publicize your club in any place where young people and their parents can be reached (school bulletins, social media, community flyers, etc). Check with your local extension office for additional assistance.
Who names a club?
The members of the club may name the club with guidance from the adult club leaders.
How big should a club be?
Club size depends on the age of members, where they meet, and the amount of leadership available. The ideal club is big enough to have fun together but small enough for everybody to feel a part of the group. The average club in Frederick County is typically 10 to 20 members, with two or three leaders.
What happens at the club's first meeting?
At the first meeting, members should get acquainted with each other and have fun with a group mixer and refreshments! Discuss projects the group might enjoy and decide when, where and how often the club will meet. Be sure to plan ahead and reach out to 4-H agents or leaders for assistance.
Contact the Frederick County Extension office for club registration help. 504-665-5699
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Location:
Frederick County Extension
107 North Kent Street
Winchester, VA 22601
Phone: 540-665-5699
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