Cape May County will be celebrating the accomplishments of 4-H youth during National 4-H Week, October 4-10. The long standing tradition; the innovative programming in the areas of Science, Engineering and Technology (SET), healthy living and citizenship, as well as the leadership, public speaking and other valuable life skills that young people develop in 4-H continues to demonstrate the impact of 4-H on young people.

Young people in grades K-13 (one year out of high school), regardless of race, religion, color, gender, national origin, sexual orientation or disability, develop leadership, citizenship and interpersonal skills in a variety of 4-H programs.

Cape May County 4-H Clubs will observe this special week by holding a Fall 4-H Open House on Sunday, October 11, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. This event is the perfect time for families to check out all that 4-H has to offer youth. 4-H members and leaders from various 4-H clubs in the county will share information about their clubs and offer fun, hands-on children’s activities. Members of the public are invited to explore the wide variety of 4-H clubs available and find out how they can register their children or volunteer their time. Twenty-two local clubs include teen leadership, herpetology, equestrian, fishing, robotics, sewing, culinary arts, archery, livestock and more. The 4-H Open House will include a petting zoo, hay rides face painting and fall crafts. Food will be available.
Now is the perfect time to become involved in 4-H if you aren't already. Each fall, 4-H clubs re-organize and enroll new members and leaders. Acting 4-H Agent Linda Horner is available to answer your questions about becoming a volunteer leader or joining 4-H as a member. Call the 4-H Office at (609) 465-5115 for more information or visit the Cape May County 4-H website at www.cmc4h.com to learn more about 4-H.

The 4-H Cloverbud Program involves children in grades K-3. Cloverbud explores the many projects, programs and activities that 4-H offers. The 4-H Cloverbud Program is non-competitive and is geared to the specific needs and interests of youth in grades K-3 and focuses on special activities to enhance their personal development.

"Adult volunteers are the heart and soul of the 4-H program," says Linda Horner. Volunteers who work with young people share their talent, energy and time. This dedication and service bring with it personal rewards as they help youth learn. Annmarie Chelius, a leader of the Communateens 4-H Club, summarizes this best. "It gives me a good feeling of satisfaction and pride to know that I have helped a child."

The 4-H Youth Development Program is part of the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station and the Rutgers Cooperative Extension. 4-H educational programs are offered to all youth grades K – 13 on an age-appropriate basis, without regard to race, religion, color, natural origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

Contact: Linda Horner, Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Cape May County
Telephone: 465-5115 ext. 605