Talbot County 4-H Youth Development Program

If you require special assistance to participate, please notify the Extension Office in advance of the program date.                       

Contact us for information about joining 4-H!  We can be reached at 410-822-1244.

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              What is 4-H?

4-H is the University of Maryland's youth development program, and it is part of the national 4-H system.  The program is available to youth in every community across the U.S.

4-H is the only youth development program with learning activities that are developed by university faculty.  There are three primary learning areas: science, healthy lifestyles, and citizenship. Educational activities are planned and taught by 4-H personnel and volunteers.

Through participation in the program, youth learn leadership, citizenship, and life skills.  They can choose from a wide range of projects including ecology and natural resources,  arts and crafts, food and nutrition, clothing and fashion, public speaking, photography, woodworking, animal and plant sciences, leadership, and community service.

4-H learning activities are designed around four essential elements necessary for positive youth development:  a sense of belonging with a positive group, a spirit of generosity toward others, opportunities to demonstrate mastery of content and life skills, and development of greater independence.

4-H teaches youth through hands-on “learn by doing” activities that encourage kids and teens to experiment, innovate, and think independently.  Youth use their HEADS to learn and develop life skills, their HEARTS to support and encourage others in their 4-H clubs, their HANDS to carry out a wide variety of community service projects, and their HEALTH to improve the quality of life for themselves and others.

Studies show that 4-H members often do better in school, are more motivated to help others, have confidence to try new things, achieve a sense of self-esteem, and develop lasting friendships.  The great thing about 4-H is that it can be a fun, educational  experience for your entire family!

The 4-H Youth Development program began in 1902. Famous alumni include Al Gore, Faith Hill, and David Letterman. Also, 14 governors, 33 university presidents and chancellors, 31 CEOs, and 4 astronauts are 4-H alumni.

The Talbot County 4-H Program

In Talbot County, youth experience 4-H by means of community clubs, project clubs, in-school and after school programs, and community activities such as the county fair and public speaking contests.

You will find a list of Talbot County 4-H Clubs at the right side of the screen.

Click the "Talbot County 4-H Clubs" link at the left side of this page to find additional information about 4-H clubs and how to contact club leaders to arrange a club visit. 

For more information, call us at 410-822-1244, e-mail Tom Hutson (thutson@umd.edu), or e-mail Pat Murphy (pmurphy3@umd.edu).