4-H — America’s largest youth development organization — is a community of youth learning in partnership with caring adults! Open to all youth ages 5–18, the Nebraska Extension 4-H youth development program emphasizes: STEM, agricultural literacy, leadership development, entrepreneurship, career & college success, and healthy living.
NO FEES to join Lancaster County 4-H!*
*Lancaster County 4-H is supported by the Lancaster County government and Nebraska Extension
Video: Overview of Lancaster County 4-H
If you live outside of Lancaster County, Nebraska: Find your local 4-H
Youth: Join 4-H!
Ways youth ages 5–18* can participate:
- Join a new or existing 4-H club. Most clubs work on a variety of projects together. A few clubs focus on a specific project, such as rabbits. See Specialty Clubs Invite New Members (pdf).
- Be an independent member. Learn at your own pace with your family.
- Participate in 4-H activities such as workshops, camps, contests and Super Fair.
*Nebraska 4-H age is determined by the age of the youth as of January 1 of the current year.
Get Involved Form
Adults: Volunteer!
Ways adults can help youth grow:
- Help start a new 4-H club (it’s easy)!
- Help with an existing club.
- Volunteer at events such as workshops, contests and the Super Fair.
Get Involved Form
Why 4-H?
Through 4-H, youth:
- Choose from over 50 projects to “learn by doing” (such as STEM, photography, food & nutrition, home design & restoration, horticulture or animals).
- Develop practical and life skills to thrive and become resilient.
- Explore interests and career “sparks.”
- Participate in leadership and community service activities.
- Create positive change in their lives and communities.
- Earn recognition such as ribbons, awards and scholarships!
- Have fun while making new friends!
Many 4-H youth showcase their projects at the Lancaster County Super Fair!
Video: 4-H at Lancaster County Super Fair
FAQ's for Joining 4-H
Is there a club to join? Is there a list of clubs to join available?
While Lancaster County 4-H cannot share volunteers’ personal information through a list, we can provide information on a specific club you might be interested in joining. We do have a list of Specialty Clubs Invite New Members (pdf).
How to join a club?
Complete a 4-H Get Involved Form sharing what project areas youth are interested in and Lancaster County 4-H staff will connect you with a club.
How do I start a club?
View details at Help Start a 4-H Club. Call 4-H staff at 402-441-7180, and we'll help you get started!
Can youth join more than one club? Within the county or a neighboring county?
Youth may join as many clubs as they are interested in joining. Youth may join more than one club within this county or in any other county in Nebraska.
Do I have to join a club to be in 4-H or is there an independent option?
If a club format does not work, youth can join 4-H as independent members and work on 4-H projects at their own pace with their families. When enrolling on 4-H Online, select ‘Lancaster Independent’ when making a club selection.
How often do clubs meet?
On average, clubs meet once a month, though each club is different. For example, some clubs meet year-round, other clubs spring through the fair, and some clubs only in the summer.
Are animals provided for projects?
Not usually.
Is there a cost for joining 4-H?
There are no fees to join Lancaster County 4-H. However some clubs may ask for dues to complete projects, for refreshments, etc. The horse program does have $20 annual family dues to support awards, clinics, etc. Most 4-H clubs use 4-H project books which cost $6.50–13.50.
Are there resources to help teach projects?
National 4-H and Nebraska 4-H have developed many research-based project books (a.k.a. curriculum) to help teach projects. These are available to view and purchase at the Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County office. They may also be ordered online through UNL Marketplace and Shop 4-H.
Where and how do we enroll?
All 4-H members and volunteers must enroll or re-enroll every year, using 4-H Online. Visit https://lancaster.unl.edu/4h/enroll for step-by-step instructions. The process is easy and only takes a few minutes.
4-H Pledge
I pledge my head to clearer thinking,
My heart to greater loyalty,
My hands to larger service,
and my health to better living,
for my club, my community, my country, and my world.
Connect With Lancaster County 4-H
