Information on joining
4-H Community Club Program
See our list of 4-H Community Clubs at the bottom of this page.
What Will I do in 4-H?
The purpose of 4-H is to help you discover and develop your potential. 4-H encourages you to set goals and make decisions. By participating in 4-H clubs and projects you will learn skills related to the projects you participate in as well as develop leadership and citizenship skills. One of the good things about 4-H is that you meet new people and make new friends.
How Do I Join 4-H?
You must be 9 years old. For those interested in taking livestock to the local fairs, they must be enrolled by the second Friday in December. Youth aged 5/K through 3rd grade are not eligible to participate in the Monterey, Salinas valley, Santa Cruz or San Benito fairs in competitive events or the Junior Livestock auction. Contact the 4-H office (831)759-7386, to get the name of a club in your community.
How Old Do I Have to Be to Join?
For clubs that offer a primary age project, You must be at least 5 years old by January 1st of each program year and no older than 19 by December 31st. Otherwise, most clubs enroll youth who are 9 years of age by December 31st.
How much Does it Cost to Join?
Each year, the insurance liability fee is set by the State 4-H offices However, there may be additional fees at a county or club level. Depending on the project or projects you enroll in, you will be required to provide your own equipment, materials and animals. All project related expenses are the responsibility of the member.
Do I have to live on a ranch or a farm?
No. 4-H has its roots in agriculture but raising and animal for fair is not a requirement. 4-H has many other projects to offer youth such as; arts & crafts, leadership, rocketry, camping, outdoor education, healthy living and so much more!
Can my parent/guardian be involved?
Yes. Monterey County needs adult volunteers to share skills with the youth in the program. University of California policy requires that adults pass a background screening check and attend an orientation before they can work with youth. If adults are interested in volunteering contact the 4-H office (831)759-7386, to learn more.
Want more information about 4-H?
Please visit the California State 4-H website at www.ca4h.org or the National
4-H website at www.4h.org
Here is the Club List and Map for the County:
Monterey County 4-H map 2022 click on this map to locate a 4-H club near you.
club list 2022-2023 Click to find club contact information. You may contact a club directly for more information. Need information quicker? Contact the 4-H offices at 831-759-7386.