About 4-H

Since 1923, Portage County 4-H has offered hands-on learning & leadership opportunities right here in our community.

What is 4-H?

We’re the nation’s largest youth development & empowerment organization! In Wisconsin, more than 26,000 youth are members of 4-H. The 4-H programming aims to engage youth in activities to increase their leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills. Our programs center on the 4-Hs—head, heart, hands, and health. This is the foundation for everything we do. Research shows there are many benefits to being involved in 4-H. 4-H youth are:

Who Can Join?

4-H is open to all youth from Kindergarten through Grade 13 that reside in Portage County. While 4-H did start as an agricultural organization, we’ve evolved far beyond our rural roots, providing programming, events and learning in just about every subject area- from the Arts, S.T.E.M. and Animal Science to Environmental/Outdoor Education, Leadership and more! We don’t have specific membership requirements, and we offer activities for all ages and stages of development. So whether you live in downtown Stevens Point, in an apartment in Almond or a farmstead in Junction City (or anywhere in between), 4-H is guaranteed to have something for you!

Benefits of Joining…

Hands-On Learning: Engage in a variety of projects that spark curiosity and creativity, from science and technology to agriculture and the arts.

Leadership Development: Take on leadership roles and participate in activities that build confidence, responsibility, and teamwork.

Community Involvement: Make a difference through community service projects and learn the value of giving back.

Friendship and Fun: Connect with peers who share your interests and make lifelong friends through camps, events, and club meetings.

Career Preparation: Gain valuable skills and experiences that prepare you for future educational and career opportunities.

Two 4-H youth in center of picture working on a robotics project surrounded by additional youth in background of picture.

What is 4-H?

History of  4-H in Portage County

Black & white picture of 1950's vegetable judging at 4-H garden club.  3 youth and 1 adult stand judging different types of vegetables on table.

Support Extension