University of Nevada, Reno Extension 4-H Youth Development Program is hosting the Washoe County 4-H Festival at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park on Sept. 25, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. This free event is a great opportunity for youth and their families to meet Washoe County 4-H clubs’ participants and leaders. Youth curious about joining a 4-H club and adults perhaps interested in volunteering are invited to join the festivities, explore options, and learn how to get involved.
“We are excited for the opportunity to demonstrate to families in the community how they can participate in the 4-H Youth Development Program in Washoe County,” Kelsey Conklin, 4-H Youth Development Program instructor, said. “We often hear that people didn’t know we have 4-H in Washoe County, or that there are clubs other than those that work with animals. This event is a great opportunity to come out and participate in some of the experiential learning activities that 4-H Clubs do, while also getting to meet some leaders and members.”
Clubs and programs that will be in attendance include photography, reptiles and amphibians, dogs, shooting sports, cooking and baking, dairy goats, livestock, and more. There will also be hands-on games and activities offered throughout the day.
4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization, through which young people learn leadership, citizenship and life skills by participating in a variety of hands-on educational activities and experiences. Research by Tufts University shows that 4-H youth are four times more likely to contribute to their communities, and two times as likely to plan to go to college and pursue STEM opportunities outside of school. They also report better grades, higher levels of academic competence, and an elevated level of engagement at school.
For more information on the Washoe County 4-H Festival, contact Sam Mitchell at his email or 775-336-0259, or . Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should contact Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at plessick@unr.edu or 702-257-5577 at least five days prior to the scheduled event with their needs or for more information.
4-H is the country’s largest youth development organization. Research by Tufts University shows that 4-H youth are four times more likely to contribute to their communities, and two times as likely to plan to go to college.
