4-H Enrollment

The 4-H program year runs from July 1 to June 30. New families can enroll anytime during the year, however, we encourage early enrollment for optimal project opportunities and participation. Youth can join 4-H between the ages of  5 years old and 18 years old. 4-H age is based on the individual's age by December 31st of the program year. Youth ages 5-8 are considered Primary members and cannot participate in large animal projects. Junior members are age 9-10 years old, Intermediate members are 11-13, and Senior members are 14-18.  An 18 year old can enroll as either a youth member or an adult volunteer but not both simultaneously. Youth must have an approved enrollment to participate in 4-H activities.

Volunteers, parents/guardians and other adult participants are a valued and essential part of the California 4-H Youth Development Program (4-H YDP), and have a profound impact on the life trajectory of 4-H members. Serving as a 4-H adult volunteer is a privilege and at the invitation of the University of California. Volunteer participation is supervised by the county 4-H YDP staff and county director. Adults must have an approved enrollment to lead or participate in 4-H activities.

Adults may volunteer for one or more of the following club roles:

• Primary Community Leader (the main leader for the club)

• Co-Community Leader

• Assistant Community Leader

• Enrollment Coordinator

• Project Leader 

See also UC 4-H Handbook for Families

How to Join 4-H