Purdue News

February 20, 1998

Change in 4-H eligibility takes effect; enrollment under way

The move to grade-level eligibility puts 4-H on a schedule similar to most other organized clubs, sport leagues and school activities. Eligibility is from third through 12th grade, with a maximum 10 years' participation. Previously, Indiana youngsters were eligible from ages 10-19, regardless of year in school.

"The change was made to provide more kids the opportunity to participate in 4-H," said Linda Chezem, head of Purdue University's Department of 4-H Youth and the statewide 4-H program.

The change also brings a cohesiveness to the program. "All kids in a grade level are eligible, rather than excluding some because they weren't 10 years old," Chezem said. "It also ensures that they will compete within their own peer group."

County Extension offices traditionally kick off their annual 4-H enrollment drive during February or March, although enrollment deadlines vary by county. This year, counties also are including a push to let the public know about the new grade guidelines.

"We're trying to get the word out loudly and quickly," said Jeff Holland, 4-H youth development educator in Monroe County. Holland and other 4-H youth educators around the state have lined up 4-H Junior Leaders and club leaders to visit third-, fourth- and fifth-grade classrooms in area schools. Announcements have been sent to the news media, and Extension newsletters from county offices have been buzzing about the change for the past six months.

Most of the questions concerning the change are being raised by families currently involved in 4-H, according to Holland. "They want to make sure they can still complete their 10 years," he said. Another group Holland is targeting is 4-H alumni who have eligible children. "We need to let them know that it's different now than when they were in 4-H."

In recent years, statewide enrollment for 10-year-olds has accounted for approximately 7,800 of the more than 58,000 youngsters enrolled in organized clubs. Holland reports that school systems have responded positively to the change and, in some cases, opened doors for other 4-H programs. More than 252,000 Indiana schoolchildren participate in 4-H-sponsored enrichment programs that range from improving science and math skills to nutrition and citizenship education.

If more children enroll in 4-H as a result of the change, Holland said, he anticipates a need for additional volunteer adult leaders. Monroe, like other counties, is dealing with increased competition from other activities for parent support and participation.

To sign up for 4-H, contact the Purdue Cooperative Extension Service office in your county or call toll free at 1-888-EXT-INFO.

Sources: Linda Chezem, (765) 494-8422; e-mail, lchezem@four-h.purdue.edu
Jeff Holland, (812) 349-2575; e-mail, Jeff_Holland@ces.purdue.edu
Writer: Olivia Maddox, (765) 496-3207; e-mail, om@aes.purdue.edu
Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; e-mail, purduenews@purdue.edu

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