4-H is a positive youth development program that teaches through hands-on “learn by doing” activities that encourage children and teens to experiment, innovate, and think independently. Youth use their HEADS to learn and develop life skills, their HEARTS to support and encourage others in their 4-H clubs, their HANDS to carry out a wide variety of community service projects, and their HEALTH to improve the quality of life for themselves and others. Through participation in 4-H, youth learn project-related knowledge and develop skills for success in life.

National studies have documented that 4-H members often do better in school, are more motivated to help others, have confidence to try new things, develop self-esteem, and create lasting friendships. 4-H can be a fun, educational experience for your entire family.

How old do youth need to be?

Members are 8-18yrs; Clovers 5-7yrs

How is 4-H structured?

In Anne Arundel County, 4-H is run primarily through clubs with club, county, state, and national opportunities and events. Clubs in our county specialize in one major learning realm with opportunities in other interest areas (“sparks”) based on time and resources available.

Tell me about clubs in Anne Arundel County.

Clubs are independent, run by certified, background checked volunteers.  Meeting dates, times, frequency, location, and dues information is specific to each club.  Youth activities/projects are dependent on what adult volunteers can/will do. Our clubs are not aligned with any county or private school system. Here is a chart of Anne Arundel County Clubs.

Do I have to own an animal in order to participate?

Owning an animal is not required. 4-H is “learn by doing” so youth are fully engaged in hands-on activities; all 4-H curriculum is research-based. A variety of topics are covered - animal science, robotics, healthy living, money and personal finance, STEM, agriculture, business, child development, creative art, gardening, photography, shooting sports, nature/environment, and much more! Check out our Anne Arundel County 4-H Calendar for information on county, state and national events.

While we participate in many exciting activities, we focus on the life skills youth acquire through their experiences.

Life Skills Ring

When can I join?

Our primary membership drive is Jan-March, but youth may join at any time.  Club calendars run January-December.

4-H Clubs: I am ready to Join a club.

1. Here are some things to think about before you enroll:

  • How old are your children?
  • What type of activities do they enjoy? What type of club would they like to join?
  • Where do you live and is proximity to meeting place important?  Here is a map of where clubs in Anne Arundel County most frequently meet.  
  • How much time do you have to give to the club?  Animal projects require a time and financial commitment, just as you allot these resources to your family dog or cat.  Some animal projects are required to go to auction/market at the county fair. These are factors to consider and investigate when you visit a club.  

2. If you definitely want to sign my youth up with a club:

  1. Select a club you would like to join. 
  2. Contact the leader for details then attend a meeting or two to determine if it’s a good match and confirm they have space for new members.
  3. Register Online: Sign-up via our 4-H enrollment platform:  v2.4honline.com.  Additional information on registration can be obtained from the club leader(s) and our county office. Cost for general membership is $10/year/member, for up to 3 youth, the $10 is waived for additional children. Clubs may have separate fees.

I don't see a club of interest to my youth, can I start a new club?

  1. Absolutely. To start a club you need five youth from at least three different families and two certified 4-H volunteers (we will work through this process with you).
  2. For project ideas you can review 4-H curriculum here. On the page, click on curriculum along the top bar for all the options. 
  3. Our County Office can assist with resources and help with the first few meetings to get established. We will continue to support the club once established.