Youth interested in science, animals, gardening, archery, fashion, leadership, public speaking and much more can find a place to belong in Florida 4-H.
Families in Broward County and surrounding communities looking for affordable, engaging and skill-building activities for their youth ages 5 to 18 can explore the many clubs and programs available during the Broward County 4-H Club Open House and Family Fun Day on Aug. 16.
Hosted by UF/IFAS Extension Broward County, this free event serves as the kickoff to leaders and current members before enrolling. More than 140 youth already participate in 4-H clubs through UF/IFAS Extension Broward County, and representatives from 10 local clubs will be available to discuss projects, meeting schedules and year-round activities and competitive opportunities.
Event Details:
Date: Aug. 16
Time: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek.
Cost: Events are free. Park parking is $3.
Registration is available online from this website.
“The open house is a showcase of our 4-H clubs, our community-based activities and the projects that youth members are working on,” said Kenan Bridges, UF/IFAS Extension Broward County 4-H agent. “Many people think 4-H is only about agriculture, but our members are involved in everything from STEM and environmental sciences to archery, public speaking and community service. This is a great opportunity for families to discover programs that help their youth spark new interests and develop their talents.”
For Katy Cain, parent to Sam, 14, and Ela, 17, and a 4-H volunteer, 4-H has provided her children with valuable leadership opportunities, positive role models and lasting friendships.
“Our clubs are truly youth-led, with members helping run meetings and activities,” she said. “The welcoming environment, strong mentorship from volunteers and older youth, and the friendships my children have built have made 4-H an important part of our family’s life.”
During the event, families can participate in demonstrations and interactive activities such as a fishing clinic, native and invasive plant identification, gardening projects, a mini-farm, STEM activities and horse-related demonstrations. Scientists from the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center will lead activities introducing youth to scientific exploration and research careers.
Youth can collect stamps in a passport activity book while exploring exhibits and demonstrations and earn prizes along the way. The event will also feature food trucks, hayrides, giveaways and games.
Additional exhibitors include UF/IFAS Family and Consumer Sciences, Broward County Master Gardeners, Florida Farm Bureau representatives and UF/IFAS commercial horticulture educators, providing families with a glimpse of program opportunities available through UF/IFAS Extension throughout the year.
In addition to project-based learning, Broward County 4-H members participate in leadership development, public speaking competitions, health and wellness events, community service projects and regional fairs, including the South Florida Fair and Miami-Dade County Fair and Exposition. Members also learn leadership and organizational skills.
Annual Broward County 4-H membership is $20 per youth, although some specialty clubs may charge additional dues to support project expenses.
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By Lourdes Mederos, rodriguezl@ufl.edu
ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.
ABOUT FLORIDA 4-H
4-H is the youth development program of the land-grant university system and Cooperative Extension System. The program provides hands-on educational programs and experiences for youth ages 5 to 18 with the objective of developing youth as individuals, and as responsible and productive citizens. In Florida, 4-H is administered by University of Florida/IFAS Extension and Florida A&M University. supporting agricultural efforts.
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