Join 4-H

4-H is a youth development program that allows members to learn through hands-on projects, like poultry. Members gain experience in animal care, responsibility, record keeping, and leadership while working with their chosen project throughout the year.

Who Can Join

Youth ages 8–18 are eligible to participate in 4-H. Age is determined as of December 31 of the year prior to the fair.

Ex: If the child is born January 2015 and fair is April 2027 then their 4-H age is 11.

When to Join

The 4-H year typically begins in September. To participate in the fair season, members must be officially enrolled by December.

Enrollment includes:

  • Joining a club

  • Completing registration through ZSuites

Missing the December deadline may make a member ineligible to show at the fair that year.

Where to Join

Members must join a local 4-H club in their area. Clubs can be found through the county club directory.

What to Expect

4-H is made up of both club meetings and project meetings:

  • Club Meetings: Typically held once a month, covering general 4-H activities, leadership, and group business.

  • Project Meetings (Poultry): Also usually held once a month, focused specifically on poultry care, showing, and project requirements.

Each club may also have its own expectations, which can include:

  • Community service projects

  • Fundraising activities

  • Additional meetings or events

Being active in both your club and your project is an important part of the 4-H experience.

Getting Started

If you’re new, start with these steps:

  1. Find and join a local club

  2. Complete enrollment before the December deadline

  3. Attend meetings and get involved

  4. Choose your poultry project and begin learning

Helpful Links

  • ZSuites Enrollment:

  • Club Finder:

  • Premium Book: