Discover Future Leaders at Hillsborough's 4-H Open House on August 30!

Florida State Fairgrounds, Ag Hall of Fame building, Tampa, Florida, USA - The coming month holds excitement for local youth in Hillsborough County as the 4-H Association gears up for an open house on Saturday, August 30, at 9 a.m. This event will take place at the Florida State Fairgrounds, specifically in the Ag Hall of Fame building. Open to youngsters aged 5 to 18, it’s a fantastic opportunity for families to explore what 4-H has to offer.

Established in 1909, 4-H is an educational program organized by the Florida Cooperative Extension, part of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Florida currently ranks fifth in the nation for 4-H member enrollment, boasting an impressive 206,000 members statewide. Hillsborough County, contributing significantly to this number, has 20 active 4-H clubs with 334 youth members.

A Variety of Clubs

The essence of 4-H is found in its clubs, which generally meet once a week in local churches or similar venues. Clubs cover a diverse range of interests and activities. Participants can get involved in clubs focusing on speech and debate, sewing, and even a brand new fishing club. Additionally, some clubs dedicate themselves to specific project areas, such as dog training, swine, dairy, shooting sports, and leadership. Each meeting consists of a business meeting, an educational component, and fun activities, making them highly engaging for the kids. Hillsborough County youth can join these clubs and enrich their learning experiences through hands-on activities.

One noteworthy achievement has come from a local club that participated in the 4-H Food Challenge, earning a commendable third place at the national level. During the upcoming open house, various clubs will showcase their projects, allowing attendees to see firsthand what they have been working on.

Skills for Life

Participating in 4-H is not just about projects and competitions; it’s a comprehensive learning experience. Members gain invaluable skills in areas like recording, bookkeeping, and self-esteem development. As clubs encourage resilience and volunteerism, the positive impact on personal growth is undeniable. These experiences can be particularly beneficial for youth with disabilities, a demographic that 4-H actively engages, as indicated by the statistic that 15% of individuals aged 3–21 are served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. 4-H programs strive to accommodate all young people, ensuring inclusivity and fostering the development of life skills necessary for academic and workforce success.

For more details about the open house, or to connect with local clubs, interested families are encouraged to reach out to 4-H county agent Amber Norris at 813-744-5519 or visit the Hillsborough 4-H website. It’s essential that attendees enter through the Orient Road entrance and follow the necessary signs to find their way.