4-H clubs are back in action for 2026
MEDIA RELEASE__Wonder when and how you can get your child involved in 4-H? While many youth programs are aligned with the school year, the 4-H program takes a break during the fall and runs from March to September. The current enrollment deadline is April 15.
Who can join?
Ohio 4-H membership is based on a child's age and grade as of January 1 of the current project year. Eligibility for Cloverbud participation begins when a child is enrolled in Kindergarten and is five years old. Eligibility for participation in 4-H projects and competitive events begins when a child is age 8 and in the 3rd grade. Any youth age 9 or above is eligible for project membership, regardless of grade level. Membership requires enrollment in an authorized Ohio 4-H club or group under the direction of an OSU Extension professional or an approved adult volunteer. A youth’s 4-H eligibility ends December 31 the year he or she turns 19. Joining Ohio 4-H is a privilege and responsibility for individuals and is subject to the Ohio 4-H Code of Conduct and applicable policies of The Ohio State University.
How to join?
Join a club in your county near your home or school. Experience 4-H with a friend, invite them to join with you. If you would like more information about the clubs that are available in your area, please click HERE to complete a short survey so we can assist you better.
Click HERE for a listing of Allen County 4-H Clubs, where they meet, and what projects they offer.
When to join?
Most clubs start up in late winter or early spring. Join by April 15 , the county's 4-H enrollment deadline, to take advantage of all 4-H opportunities including participation in the Fair.
What is there to do?
Members may select 4-H project(s) to explore through club and county activities. Use the 4-H Family Guide to learn about each and every one. Cloverbud members, age 5 and in Kindergarten until age 8 and in 3rd grade participate in non-competitive activities exploring a variety of fun, hands-on interest areas.
Stories Posted This Week
Monday, August 10, 2026
- Pirate girls tennis 2nd at Lima City tourney
- Professor Parquet on the passing of Don Nelson
- Bluffton historical society to discuss upcoming events, fundraising
- Bluffton Public Library hosts Mobile Health Clinic on Aug. 13
- 2026 PorchFest preview: Tommy Jenkins, Cat Dailey, Szabo Trio
- Chair massages offered at the Senior Center
- Bluffton Senior Center to host Spa Day
Sunday, August 9, 2026
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Friday, August 7, 2026
- BHS Junior Class to hold Post Prom fundraiser on Sept. 13
- Aug. 23 anniversary celebration at Tri-County Family Assembly of God
- Pirate boys golf 10th at L-B Invite
- Save these dates: Four more months of America 250 events in Bluffton
- Lens turns Bluffton's NNO fireworks to neon
- Should all beavers beware of Buc-ee's logo litigation?
- Letter: As Ohio grows, conservation must become part of the conversation
- 2026 Lincoln Highway Buy Way sales August 13-15
- History you can taste: Bluffton celebrates local businesses on Aug. 8