Kennebec County 4-H Youth Development Program

What is 4-H? | How to Get Involved | Sign Up Now

What is 4-H?

4-H is the positive youth development education program of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension. 4-H is the largest youth organization in the world! Youth ages 5-18 can join, and you do not have to own an animal or raise livestock to be a member of 4-H. 4-H programming is diverse and offerings include activities in the areas of agriculture, science (STEM), healthy living, and civic engagement.

How To Get Involved

Clubs

Traditional volunteer-led clubs in the community meet year-round and can focus on any topic ranging from raising animals to building robots and everything in between. 4-H Clubs are eligible to participate in any county, state, and nationwide 4-H events throughout the year including but not limited to: Public Speaking, 4-H@UMaine, Maine 4-H Days, County Fairs, and more! Find a 4-H Club for you.

Special Interest/Short-Term Programs

We regularly offer SPIN (SPecial INterest) clubs and projects. These short-term programs are led by staff and/or volunteers and are designed for youth to learn a selected topic or skill of interest. You are not necessarily required to join 4-H as a full member to participate in these short-term programs, although full membership makes you eligible to participate in any county, state, and nationwide 4-H events throughout the year. These special interest programs can be held in locations such as but not limited to afterschool programs, community centers, area organizations, and the Extension Office. View the list of current 4-H Programs.

Independent

Independent 4-H members are typically working on a 4-H project at home or at school. They are mentored by parents and/or a 4-H Volunteer. Independents are eligible to participate in any county, state, and nationwide 4-H events throughout the year including but not limited to: Public Speaking, 4-H@UMaine, Maine 4-H Days, County Fairs, and more! This option offers families flexibility and independence since they are not required to meet in a club setting.

Camp and Learning Centers

There are three 4-H Camp & Learning Centers in Maine: Bryant Pond, Tanglewood, and Blueberry Cove. You do not need to be enrolled in 4-H to attend camp, but Hancock County offers scholarships for enrolled 4-H youth to attend camp in the summer!

Volunteer

If you are an adult who is interested in sharing your passion for a topic or skill, consider volunteering with 4-H! Volunteer opportunities are designed to work with your schedule.

For more information about the Kennebec County 4-H Program and clubs, please contact the Extension Office at 1.800.287.1481 (in Maine) or 207.622.7546 or by email at extension.kennebec@maine.edu.

New members can enroll at any time throughout the year via ZSuite and create a household and personal profile. Returning members must re-enroll before the November deadline each year. Please make an appointment at the Extension office for any ZSuite assistance, we are happy to help!