More than six million youth are celebrating National 4-H week, and 566 of those can be found in Washington County. This year’s theme is Inspire Kids to Do. Riverside Ramblers and County Council member Phelan Hostetler shares she’s gained skills through her projects with 4-H, especially in working with livestock, “The biggest thing would definitely be responsibility. Just the day in, day out, there’s no days off. You can always get help from your friends and family, but it’s an everyday thing. Also, the budgeting and the marketing of the livestock industry. And then, kind of the teamwork and the leadership that comes along with being involved in 4-H and having those projects.”

According to a study from Tufts University, young people involved in 4-H are nearly four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to pursue healthy behaviors; and two times more likely to engage in STEM programs outside of normal school hours. Last year, Washington County had 395 students take part in traditional 4-H club meetings and county fair opportunities, with another 171 involved in Clover Kids for kindergarten through third graders. Locally, 4-H also engages students with the Pick a Better Snack program, a babysitter basics class, agriculture safety day, 21 different day camps, and 10 specialty STEM clubs.

To enroll a child in 4-H contact the Washington County Extension Office.