4-H can trace its roots to the early part of last century when County Extension Offices were trying to increase knowledge among local farmers. The County Extension Offices began teaching youth about new and innovative farming practices, hoping their parents would take notice, and they did. Over the years 4-H has evolved to become one of the largest positive youth development programs in the nation. It has grown to offer projects for five to eighteen year olds in pretty much any topic imaginable. Recently Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, and Tuolumne counties pooled their resources to form the state’s first Multi-County Partnership, the UC Cooperative Extension Central Sierra. Together we are working to improve the lives of young people throughout the region, while keeping our county 4-H identities. The Central Sierra 4-H program is looking to build capacity by increasing the amount and types of projects offered to youth in our four counties. Do you have a passion you want to share? Do you love kids? We provide training and support so you wouldn’t be doing this in the dark. We are adding projects in all four counties. Possible projects may include robotics, cultural arts, soap making, entomology, ballroom dancing, and so much more.
We are currently seeking volunteers to donate 2-3 hours a month helping youth explore their spark and passion. Being a 4-H volunteer is a rewarding experience for both the adult and the youth. Initial commitment is a few hours of training about learning styles and teaching techniques, fingerprinting, and an annual enrollment fee ($15 for 2012/13). Not interested in teaching kids, but still want to be a part 4-H? We have many volunteer opportunities that support local youth, but don’t have direct interaction with them. If you are interested in being a part of this amazing organization please contact JoLynn Miller, 4-H Advisor for the Central Sierra Region by email (
jlmiller@ucanr.edu) or phone (209-533-5686). Remember no experience is necessary, but a passion for inspiring youth is required.