News Release Distributed 09/18/14

BATON ROUGE, La. – Enrollment in Louisiana 4-H Clubs continues to grow, with a total of 46,232 youth participating in state 4-H Clubs this year. Club membership included more than 45,100 students last year and 42,960 in 2012.

Louisiana has a total of about 250,000 4-H’ers, but not all are members of 4-H Clubs.

“The growth we’re seeing in 4-H Clubs and programs is very encouraging,” said Mark Tassin, LSU AgCenter program leader for 4-H youth and family development. “We’re reaching more young people with valuable opportunities that help build their skill sets and character.”

Tassin said there is also increased interest in 4-H programs such as the Youth Wetlands Program, which works with educators to promote awareness of wetland loss in Louisiana. About 98,800 students participated last year, and that number rose significantly this year to 125,325.

4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization. It emphasizes learning by doing and helps young people develop a diverse, lifelong knowledge base they can use to serve others.

During the school year, 4-H Club members work on projects ranging from robotics to fashion design to animals with help from teachers, AgCenter agents and older 4-H’ers.

During the summer, Louisiana 4-H’ers can attend 4-H camp and compete in contests at 4-H University. These events develop confidence and independence while promoting the value of teamwork.

For more information about 4-H, contact the LSU AgCenter Extension Service office in your parish.

Olivia McClure