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Perfect Time to Find Your Place

October is sign-up month for Randolph County 4-H

October marks the beginning of a new 4-H year, and Randolph County 4-H is inviting local youth and families to discover just how many ways there are to get involved.

For more than a century, 4-H has helped young people learn new skills, develop confidence, make friends and become active members of their communities. While many people associate 4-H with livestock and agriculture, today's 4-H program offers much more. In Randolph County, members can explore everything from cooking and healthy living to STEM, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, community service, leadership, public speaking, trips, competitions and more.

One of the things that makes 4-H unique is that members have the opportunity to shape their experience around their own interests. Some young people may discover a love of biking, hiking, and the outdoors. Others might enjoy creative projects, cooking, science, community service or learning to become a leader. For many members, the friendships and connections they gain along the way become just as important as the skills they learn.

4-H can easily fit into busy family schedules. Randolph County community clubs meet just once each month, while additional county and statewide activities are offered throughout the year. Members can choose projects and activities that fit their interests and schedules, allowing each family to decide how involved they would like to be.

There are 4-H clubs located throughout Randolph County, including Beverly, Coalton, Elkins, Harman, Kerens/Montrose and Mill Creek. The county also offers special opportunities such as Cloverbud Explorers for younger members, Heels Down Horse Club for youth interested in horses, and Randolph County Teen Leaders for middle and high school 4-H members. Parents and adults can get involved too through volunteer opportunities and the Randolph County Leaders' Association.

Randolph County 4-H serves youth from ages 5 through 20. Cloverbuds, ages 5-7, participate in age-appropriate activities designed to introduce them to 4-H through creating, exploring and learning, while traditional 4-H membership begins at age 8.

There is a place for everyone in 4-H, and this October is a great time to find yours.

Families ready to enroll can create an account at 4h.zsuite.org. For help finding the right club or learning more about Randolph County 4-H, contact the WVU Randolph County Extension Service at 304-636-2455, visit the office at 32 Randolph Avenue, Suite 102, Elkins, or email Katy.Dillon@mail.wvu.edu.