4-H Saskatchewan: Learn to do by doing

AD VER TISEMENT 4-H Saskatchewan: Learn to do by doing

4-H has been an important part of Saskatchewan communities for more than a century. The simple vision that started 4-H has endured the test of time: learn to do by doing. Since the first livestock clubs were formed in 1917, 4-H has become one of Canada’s most recognized and valued youth programs, providing learning experiences tailored to the needs and interests of each member.

All of the clubs in the province are starting to gear up for the new year. We have about 200 clubs across the province and they are in a variety of projects. Our volunteer screening deadline is October 15 and our registration deadline is November 15 for returning clubs, so members and leaders should make sure they have everything sent into the office by those dates.

We are very proud of our agriculture roots. In the years since 4-H was starting in the province, we have started to branch out into different topic areas. We have a variety of projects based around our four pillars: Community Engagement and Communications, Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security, Environment and Healthy Living and Science and Technology. All of the projects, from the Beef and Light Horse, to more unique projects such as Astronomy, Welding, Archery and Genealogy, are based around these pillars.

Public speaking ties directly into youth leadership. One of our priorities is building the leaders of tomorrow and public speaking is a big part of that. Public speaking is one of the biggest fears people around the world have and when you are in business or even your day-to-day life, having public speaking skills will help you succeed. Starting at a young age will help give the youth the skills and self-confidence to get up in front of a group of people and be able to articulate their thoughts.

Getting a new club started is really easy. All you need is four members and two volunteerscreened leaders. If you want to start a new club, the first step would to be to call the 4-H office and get in touch with the regional specialist for your area. Your regional specialist can help you with recruitment and retention, can be available to put on information nights and then, once your club is started, help you with all your 4-H related questions. They can also attend your new club’s first general meeting and give you advice as needed.

Club Week is an exciting time for 4-H members to get involved in their communities and show off their 4-H spirit. Club Week runs the first full week of November. During this week, 4-H’ers are encouraged to get involved with our Sustainability Initiative. The 4-H’ers are also encouraged to dress up in their club clothing or green on November 3 for Show Your 4-H Colours Day. 4-H really is a lot more than horses and cows. We have so many opportunities, contests and more for 4-H members. We also have scholarship and travel opportunities for members. 4-H also puts on social media contests throughout the year to engage our membership. We are currently running our Ag Month contest, asking the 4-H’ers to share their food stories.

We also have a variety of programs available right in the province! We brought back 4-H Summer Camp a few years ago, a 4-H Science Day in October, Leaderama, a leader training course, in Melfort and Swift Current in December and we will have many more programs starting in January, from public speaking and curling competitions to fun ski days and more.

For more information, people can check out our website at www.4-h.sk.ca or call theoffice at 306-933-7727.

4-H is a lot more than horses and cows. Members have fun working and learning together, by participating in special activities, individual and group projects, and meetings. SUPPLIED

Joining 4-H Saskatchewan is an opportunity to make new friends and develop life skills through club involvement and hands-on projects. SUPPLIED