4-H offers many opportunities for adults, parents and — most importantly — kids!
The program focuses on teaching agriculture; life skills; citizenship; science, technology, engineering and mathematics; diversity; teamwork; leadership skills; and responsibility.
Fun, educational children’s programs include summer camp, the county fair, school enrichment opportunities, county and district events, and club meetings. Eglin and Hurlburt Air Force Bases youth centers have active 4-H programs.
The organization began more than 100 years ago and has served many youths in its time. All 67 Florida counties have a 4-H program.
The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ 4-H Youth Development Program mission, as it appears on the state 4-H website, is to "use a learn-by-doing approach to help youths gain the knowledge and skills they need to be responsible, productive citizens.
“This mission is accomplished by creating safe and inclusive learning environments, involving caring adults, and utilizing the expertise and resources of the University of Florida and the nationwide land grant university system."
LEARN MORE
Contact the Okaloosa County Extension Office, 689-5850, for more information about 4-H.
UPCOMING PROGRAMS
INDOOR YARD & CRAFT SALE: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., June 8, extension office, 3098 Airport Road, Crestview. Food, crafts and household items, including area farmers' fruits and vegetables.
BUILDING YOUR FINANCES FOR RETIREMENT: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 20. Register: http://bit.ly/PlanRetire.
TEACH CHILDREN TO SAVE: through July 31. Youths ages 18 or younger who deposit money into a savings account are eligible for a $50 prize. Details: 683-8431; 689-5850, extension 0; or visit your local financial institution.
Haley Worley is an agent at the Okaloosa County Extension office in Crestview.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: EXTENSION CONNECTION: 4-H kids learn about agriculture and more