It’s time to enroll your kids in one of the best, positive youth development programs in Texas! The new 4-H year began Sept. 1 in all 254 counties in Texas. As part of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, the Texas 4-H Youth Development Program provides inclusive opportunities to youth ages 8-18 in grades 3-12 for personal growth, community service, and fun. Texas 4-H reaches around 500,000 youth per year.
By joining a club in their county, youth have the opportunity to participate in one or many projects, with 43 diverse options to choose from in Agriculture and Livestock, Family and Community Health, Leadership and Citizenship, Natural Resources, and STEM. Youth gain life skills while giving back to their community and making new friends.
Research shows Texas 4-H members excel in comparison to other Texas students. Youth who are involved in 4-H programs are four times more likely to give back to their communities, two times more likely to make healthier lifestyle choices and two times more likely to participate in STEM activities.
“With a variety of project options, all youngsters can find something in which they are interested,” County Extension Agent, Dawn Dockter said.
“Developing personal interests under the leadership of older teens and adult volunteers provides interesting learning opportunities and encourages cross-generation interaction and communication. 4-H members get to explore interests in a positive environment with the safety net of caring mentors.”
To join 4-H, youth usually pay a $25 fee, but thanks to a generous donation from Iris Energy, that fee has been waived for Childress County residents who register by September 30, 2022.
In addition to the youth and AgriLife Extension personnel, screened, adult volunteers assist with 4-H programming in the county, by providing leadership and sharing their expertise in the various project areas.
“Our volunteer leaders get to share their experience with the 4-H members,” Dockter said. “Texas 4-H volunteers enjoy sharing their interests in particular projects with young people. They also have a desire to see members grow and become the best individual they can be.”
Adult volunteers pay $10 to apply for a spot as a 4-H volunteer. If you are interested in volunteering with the Childress County program, contact the Extension Office at 940-937-2351. County Extension personnel will have information about where to plug in and how to get signed up.

Additional information can be found at https://texas4h.tamu.edu