MSU Extension

Ottawa County 4-H Youth Development

What is 4-H?

First, let's talk about what 4-H isn't.

• It's not just for kids who live on farms–although lots of kids who live on farms are in 4-H.
• It's not just about raising and selling animals–although some kids in 4-H do exactly that.
• It's not just about doing projects that you show at a fair–although lots of kids in 4-H do that too.

So what is 4-H about?

• Having fun and not being BORED!
• Making some great friends
• Doing things you've always been interested in
• Doing things you never knew you were interested in
• Being a scientist
• Being an entrepreneur
• Discovering you can be a leader–and you're good at it
• Learning you can make a difference in your community, or even your state
• Building your self-confidence

Learn More About 4-H »

If you have children interested in finding an Ottawa County 4-H club to join, please e-mail us at MSUE.Ottawa@msu.edu and ask to be sent a map of our clubs. With a number of clubs to choose from there is bound to be one that is just right for your family. Kids in Ottawa County 4-H clubs participate in all kinds of animal projects including; beef, sheep, swine, horses, dairy cattle, goats, dogs, chickens, rabbits, cats, and pocket pets. We also have many youth in sewing, crafts, photography, fine arts and other learning projects. In addition we have a teen club which is designed to teach teens about leadership and citizenship. In short there is something for everyone!

Fairs

• Holland Fair (Ottawa County Fair)