4-H is Growing and Nurturing Youth in Jackson County
For more than a century, 4-H has been helping young people learn by doing. Founded in the early 1900s, the program began as a way to teach rural youth modern farming practices but quickly grew into a movement that would impact generations. The familiar green four-leaf clover emblem, with its “Head, Heart, Hands, and Health,” reflects the mission of 4-H: developing confident, capable youth who are prepared for success in life.
Today, 4-H is the largest youth development program in the United States, reaching nearly six million young people nationwide through clubs, camps, and school enrichment programs. With the guidance of dedicated adult volunteers, members build practical skills, explore interests, and develop leadership qualities that carry over into school, careers, and community life. Studies have shown that 4-H participants are more likely than their peers to excel in school, contribute to their communities, and pursue careers in science, agriculture, and public service.
Here in Jackson County, 4-H continues that tradition of growth and opportunity. From agriculture and animal science to arts, technology, and leadership, the program offers a wide range of clubs that give local youth hands-on experiences and a chance to shine. Each club is designed to nurture creativity, responsibility, and confidence while fostering friendships and fun.
Below are some of the clubs currently offered in Jackson County:
Fiber Arts Club
The 4-H Fiber Arts Club encourages youth to explore traditional and modern forms of handcraft. Members will learn sewing, embroidery, weaving, and macramé, skills that are quickly fading from everyday life but remain valuable for creativity and self-expression. Beyond art, the club also introduces entrepreneurial strategies, showing how handmade creations can be turned into small business opportunities.
LEGO Club
The popular 4-H LEGO Project blends fun with education, giving youth the chance to explore engineering, design, and problem-solving through hands-on building activities. This STEM-focused club sparks imagination while teaching collaboration and critical thinking.
Electronics Club
New this year, the 4-H Electronics Club offers youth an introduction to electricity and circuitry. Participants learn safe practices, wiring techniques, and the role of electricity in everyday life, all while developing communication and decision-making skills through hands-on projects.
Chick Chain Club
The 4-H Chick Chain is a favorite among young animal enthusiasts. Members raise baby chicks into healthy pullets, learning responsibility, animal care, biosecurity, and record keeping along the way. The program culminates in a spring show where youth present their hens, record books, and poultry knowledge in competitions that highlight their hard work and dedication.
Archery Club
For those interested in outdoor recreation, the Archery Club provides a safe and structured way to learn this lifelong sport. Youth gain a foundation in recurve and compound archery while developing patience, focus, and confidence under the guidance of trained leaders.
Beef & Swine Clubs
Jackson County’s strong agricultural roots are reflected in its Beef and Swine Clubs. These programs give youth hands-on experience in animal husbandry, health management, livestock evaluation, and meat science. Members not only raise and show their animals but also build leadership skills, responsibility, and respect for ethical agricultural practices.
Country Bumpkins Club
For those looking for variety, the Country Bumpkins Club is a general-interest group that offers a little bit of everything. This year, members will dive deeper into culinary projects while continuing to explore new opportunities based on member interest.
Jackson County 4-H reminds families that if there’s a project area a child wants to explore but no club currently exists, parents can contact the 4-H office to set up an independent membership. With caring adult mentors and a wide variety of opportunities, 4-H continues to shape the next generation of leaders, dreamers, and doers right here at home.
For more information, call the Jackson County 4-H office at 850-482-9620 or email ekrzes@ufl.edu.