THE CLOVER GAZETTE
4-H NEWSLETTER
4-H NEWSLETTER
Boulder County 4-H Youth Council Meeting Date: Wednesday, December 3
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Clover Club Room
Who Should Attend:
All 4-H members
Youth interested in leadership and making a difference
Club representatives ready to share ideas and speak on behalf of their group
Why It Matters:
Be the voice for your club and help shape Boulder County 4-H
Collaborate with other youth to plan events and strengthen our program
Share your ideas, energy, and passion with a group that values your input
Build leadership skills and make a meaningful impact
We encourage every club to send at least one representative, but all 4-H members are welcome. Whether you're new to 4-H or have been involved for a while, Youth Council is a great way to connect, contribute, and grow.
Want to Learn More? Click HERE for more information about Youth Council and how you can get involved.
We’re excited to see you there. Your voice matters.
Boulder County 4-H Adult Collaborative Advisory Group Meeting
Date: Wednesday, December 3
Time: 6:15 PM
Location: Clover Club Room
Who Should Attend:
Parents and guardians of 4-H youth
Club and project leaders
Adults interested in learning how to get involved in 4-H
Why It Matters:
Discover how adults can support and participate in the 4-H program
Get ideas and guidance for your club or project
Connect with other families and volunteers
Help mentor new leaders and strengthen our 4-H community
Whether you're just starting out or have been part of 4-H for a while, this meeting is a great way to learn more, ask questions, and feel part of something meaningful. We welcome new members all year and would love to have you join us.
Looking Ahead: The Adult Collaborative group recently voted to host a 4-H Bonfire event, and we could use your help to make it happen. Come to the meeting to learn more and get involved.
We look forward to seeing you there. Your voice and energy make a difference.
Click HERE for more information on this group.
Boulder County 4-H Horse Leader Council Meeting
Date: Monday, December 1
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Virtual (contact Brenda Kwang for Zoom link: bkwang@bouldercounty.org
Who Should Attend:
All organizational, project, activity, and resource leaders
Parents interested in supporting the 4-H Horse Program
Any leader currently enrolled in Boulder County 4-H
Why Join Us:
Share ideas and help guide the direction of the Horse Program
Connect with other leaders and families involved in horse-related projects
Learn how to support youth and strengthen club activities
Stay informed and engaged with upcoming events and opportunities
Whether you're actively leading or just looking to get more involved, this council is a great way to contribute, collaborate, and stay connected. We welcome your voice and participation.
We look forward to seeing you online. Reach out to Brenda Kwang for the Zoom link and join the conversation.
Cloverbuds are 4-H members ages 5 to 7
Date: No meeting this month. Join us for the Gingerbread House event
Who Should Attend:
Cloverbud members (ages 5 to 7)
Parents and guardians who want to support early 4-H experiences
Adults interested in volunteering with young members
Why Come:
Age-appropriate activities designed for young learners
A gentle, fun introduction to 4-H skills and friendships
Opportunities for parents to learn how to support Cloverbud participation
A welcoming place for families new to 4-H and those returning after a break
Cloverbud Leader: Karli Hardesty
If you have questions or need meeting details, contact Karli or check the Boulder County 4-H calendar. We welcome every young learner and their grown-ups to join, explore, and have fun.
WINTER SOCIAL
What is the Winter Social, and who should join?
The Winter Social, hosted by the 4-H Youth Council, is a festive gathering for the Boulder County 4-H community. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season, enjoy fun activities planned by our youth leaders, and connect with friends old and new.
Who’s invited?
Everyone! Whether you’re a longtime member or brand new to 4-H you’re welcome to come share in the celebration.
ADULT COLLABORATIVE
You’re Invited to the 4-H Adult Collaborative Meeting!
What is the 4-H Adult Collaborative? It’s a space for 4-H adults—leaders, volunteers, parents, and members of our staff—to come together, share ideas, and collaborate on ways to enhance our 4-H program. Whether you’re a seasoned 4-H pro or brand new, your voice and creativity are welcome!
Join us for an informal, welcoming evening filled with snacks, a 4-H craft, fun, and fresh ideas. Let’s work together to make Boulder County 4-H even better. We can’t wait to see you there!
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE (LDC)
Leadership Development Conference (LDC) and 4‑H Day at the Capitol
Youth ages 14 to 18 are invited to take part in the annual Leadership Development Conference on January 24–25, 2026. Right after the conference, participants can join 4‑H Day at the Capitol on January 26, 2026.
This year’s theme is Creating the Ripple. County registration deadline is December 19, 2025. Register on 4HOnine.
We are excited for Boulder County youth to be part of this inspiring event.
4-H WEBSITE CHANGES COMING
🌐 Website Update Coming Soon 🌐
On December 18, the Colorado 4‑H website will move to a new platform. When you visit, things may look a little different, but the goal is to make the site easier to use and more helpful for members, families, volunteers, and staff.
We’ll keep you updated as the transition happens and appreciate your patience while we settle into the new look.
4-H PARADE OF LIGHTS: YOUTH COUNCIL FLOAT PARTICIPATION
Youth Council Float Participation for Longmont's Parade of Lights
Longmont Parade of Lights – December 13 Sign up here: Parade Signup
The 4-H Youth Council is once again creating a bright, festive float for the Longmont Parade of Lights. This year’s theme is inspired by Dr. Seuss's Holiday Who-ville! Our float will ask the fun question, “Who-ville you be in 4-H?”
How you can join in:
Help build and decorate the float. Adults are encouraged to participate.
Ride along on the float during the parade.
Members and adults ages 14 and up may walk beside the float. Younger participants will ride.
Donations of lights and decorations are welcome and will be returned after the parade.
It will be a night full of sparkle, creativity, and community spirit. Come be part of the fun and show off your 4-H pride.
CLOVERBUDS
We are excited to invite youth ages 5–7 to a special morning of creativity and fun. This hands-on class introduces children to 4-H Cloverbuds, our program designed especially for the youngest members of the 4-H community.
During the class, participants will build their own graham cracker gingerbread house and learn more about what it means to be a Cloverbud. This event is open to the public, so children do not need to be current 4-H members to join. It’s a wonderful way for families who are new to 4-H to see what we’re all about.
Who should attend:
Youth ages 5–7 (as of December 31, 2025)
Families curious about 4-H and Cloverbuds
Current members who want to bring friends along
Event details:
Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged
Registration deadline: December 2, 2025
Come join us for a festive morning, meet other families, and discover the fun of 4-H Cloverbuds.
IMPORTANT RE-ENROLLMENT DEADLINES
Please remember to re-enroll your 4-H member on time!
Complete your enrollment and payment by the last Thursday in January to avoid a $20 late fee.
The final deadline for all enrollments to participate in the Boulder County Fair is the last Thursday in April.
Thank you for staying on top of these dates! If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out. We appreciate your support!
FAMILY FORUM
What is the 4-H Family Forum, and who should attend?
The 4-H Family Forum is a fun and informative event for all 4-H families to learn about the five key project completion requirements: Record Book, Demonstration, Community Service, Judging Activity, and Project Exhibition.
Join us on January 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM in Barn A at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. Dinner will be provided, so come enjoy a meal while connecting with other families and gaining the tools to support your 4-H member's success.
We encourage all 4-H families—especially new members—to attend!
SEWING AND CROCHET PROJECT WORKSHOPS
Learn to sew with Lana this fall. Classes run from November 10 to December 15 on Mondays from 6 to 8 pm in the Extension Office conference room. All skill levels are welcome. Sign up here:
Now featuring crocheting with Emily! Nov 24 and Dec 8.
For both workshops, bring any materials you have (including sewing machines!) or projects you are working on. Some supplies will be available.
CAKE DECORATING PROJECT WORKSHOPS
DAIRY CATTLE
DOG PROJECT
The orientation meeting for new Dog Project members will he held on Wednesday evening, February 11th, in Barn A. At that time, we will provide an overview of the project, review equipment needs, discuss training classes and dates, and answer questions. Watch for more details in the February 4-H newsletter! If you have any questions before then, please contact Anne, the Dog Superintendent.
Dog training classes for the 4-H Dog Project will begin in March and run through the middle of July. Classes will be held primarily on Wednesday evenings at the Fairgrounds, and will cover Obedience, Rally, Showmanship, and Agility (for 2nd year and higher project members). A detailed training schedule for the year will be available in the January 4-H Newsletter.
Are you an adult volunteer who loves dogs and loves planning events? We are looking for an Assistant Dog Superintendent to help with the 4-H Dog Fun Match and the County Fair 4-H Dog Contest! Duties may include organizing show awards, providing hospitality at both events, running fun contests and helping with correspondence. If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Brenda Kwang in the 4-H Office!
POULTRY PROJECT
RABBIT PROJECT
HORSE TEAMS
Horse Bowl Team
What it is
A fast-paced, buzzer-style quiz team that tests knowledge of horses, tack, equine-related subject matter like anatomy, and care.
Who should join
Youth 8-18 (State team competition is ages 14-18) who enjoy trivia, quick thinking, and team competition.
What you’ll gain
Stronger equine knowledge, quick recall skills, and confidence competing with peers.
Coach Carmen Porter
How to join
Check meeting dates and sign-up info on the program calendar or contact Carmen. Calendar: https://teamup.com/kstehhrw3yyee6xjph
Horse Hippology Team
What it is
A competitive team that studies all aspects of horses: anatomy, nutrition, health, tack, and judging. Teams also work together to solve real-world equine management problems, combining individual knowledge with group problem-solving.
4 Stages:
Exam
Stations
Judging
Team Problem
Who should join
Youth 8-18 (State team competition is ages 14-18) who want to deepen their knowledge of horses and like working as part of a team.
What members gain
Stronger horse science knowledge, practical problem-solving experience, teamwork skills, and contest preparation.
Coach Donna Pattee
How to join
See meeting dates and sign-up details on the calendar or contact Donna. Calendar: https://teamup.com/kstehhrw3yyee6xjph
Horse Judging Team
What it is
A team that practices evaluating conformation and performance and justifying your decision with clear oral reasons.
Who should join
Youth interested in judging, public speaking, and developing sharp observation skills.
What you’ll gain
Critical evaluation skills, confident public speaking, horse evaluation knowledge, and competitive judging experience.
Coach Kendra McConnell
How to join
Find meeting dates on the calendar or reach out to Kendra for next steps.
Calendar: https://teamup.com/kstehhrw3yyee6xjph
HORSE JUDGING TEAM
AG IN BELGIUM-NETHERLANDS
Youth ages 14 and older are invited to apply to join the Colorado 4-H delegation traveling to Belgium and the Netherlands in June 2026. This trip focuses on sustainable agriculture and learning about the local culture.
The selection process includes:
An interview
Recommendation from the county specialists
Commitment to attend monthly pre-departure meetings
Commitment to complete a leadership project after returning
Members who are interested can contact Dawn Sanchez for more details.
COLORADO 4-H SCHOLARSHIPS
Colorado 4-H awards scholarships annually to outstanding youth who have actively engaged in Colorado 4-H clubs for at least three years. The scholarship process is open from November 1, 2025, through March 1, 2026. Scholarship recipients will be announced in May 2026. There are opportunities available for all kinds of students, including those attending CSU or other universities, trade schools or junior colleges, transfer students, and continuing students. We encourage our 4-H participants to apply.
For more information on the scholarship process and scholarships available, visit https://co4h.colostate.edu/about-us/scholarships/.
If you have scholarship questions, please contact OEE_Giving@colostate.edu.
UPCOMING EVENTS
BOULDER COUNTY 4-H EVENT CALENDAR
OUR TeamUp Calendar IS UPDATED OFTEN AND IS WHERE YOU WILL FIND OUR MOST UP TO DATE INFORMATION (https://teamup.com/kstehhrw3yyee6xjph)
DATES TO REMEMBER THIS MONTH
12/01- Sewing Projects Workshop
12/06- Rabbit Project Araba Show
12/08- Sewing Projects Workshop
12/10- Winter Social
12/15- Sewing Projects Workshop
12/19- LDC Registration Deadline
12/24-01/02- Extension Office Closed
SHARE YOUR CLUB NEWS
The Clover Gazette 4-H Newsletter is published 11 times a year. News articles are welcomed by members, leaders and clubs! Please email your articles/entries to Jeannie on or before the 20th of the preceding month.
Do you have photos you'd like to share? Please send them to Jeannie.
Fair warning: They will probably be posted on social media and used on our marketing materials.
4-H Youth Development/ Outreach County Specialist
4-H Youth Development/ Livestock & Animals County Specialist
4-H Project Assistant
4-H Program Secretary
Boulder County Extensions Office
9595 Nelson Rd, Box B
Longmont, Colorado 80501
(303) 678-6238
Colorado State University Extension is an equal opportunity provider.
Colorado State University does not discriminate on the basis of disability and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations.
CSU’s Office of Engagement and Extension ensures meaningful access and equal opportunities to participate to individuals whose first language is not English.
Colorado State University Extension es un proveedor que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades.
Colorado State University no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad y se compromete a proporcionar adaptaciones razonables.
Office of Engagement and Extension de CSU garantiza acceso significativo e igualdad de oportunidades para participar a las personas quienes su primer idioma no es elinglés. Col.st/ll0t3