Archived Weekly Updates
Weekly Updates 1/22/24 - 1/28/24
4-H Volunteers - Insights & Inspiration Podcast
4-H volunteers are superheroes, but even superheroes need inspiration to fly! This podcast will connect you to other 4-H volunteers across California and beyond who are doing AMAZING things.
Join host and 4-H Youth Development Advisor, JoLynn Miller, in a conversation that will provide insight and inspire you in your 4-H role.
Avian Flu Precautions
Watch your flocks for signs of the highly contagious avian flu. See the UC Agriculture & Natural Resources blog post for details on what to watch for and how to help guard against it.
FREE Show Livestock Prep Seminar
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 5:30pm
Wednesday, February 14, 2024 5:30pm
Nilsen, Eureka store
Join us at our Eureka Store, Wednesday February 14th, for our FREE Cargill Show Feeds Presentation. Cohosted by Chuck Sears from Cargill, this LIVE in person event will provide 4H & FFA Teachers, Leaders, Students and Parents a general overview and list of benefits/changes to the upcoming 2024 Cargill/Nutrena Show feeds lineup. Our Nilsen Company Management Team will also provide you with important Calendar dates, feed lists, special order contacts/requirements as well as provide a vital Q & A.
Call us at (707) 442-3741 with any questions.
Call us at (707) 442-3741 with any questions.
Chico State & Butte College Field Day
4-H DIVISION - LIVESTOCK JUDGING
Date: February 10, 2024
Deadline to enter: January 26th
Contest Coordinator: Jessica Toombs (jmtoombs@csuchico.edu)
Youth must register through JudgingCard.com
Contact your county 4-H office to enter!
California State Fair Scholarship Program
Applications are OPEN for the CA State Fair Scholarship Program! Presented by Friends of the Fair and the California Agricultural Advisory Council, scholarships are awarded to those who exhibit academic excellence, leadership potential, civic accomplishments, and a strong sense of personal commitment to continuing their education. More info is on the Cal Expo State Fair website.
Applications are OPEN for the CA State Fair Scholarship Program! Presented by Friends of the Fair and the California Agricultural Advisory Council, scholarships are awarded to those who exhibit academic excellence, leadership potential, civic accomplishments, and a strong sense of personal commitment to continuing their education. More info is on the Cal Expo State Fair website.
Scholarship Applications are Open!!
QUALIFICATIONS
1. The applicant must be a current 4-H member in Humboldt or Del Norte counties, including active membership while in high school.
2. Applicant must be graduating from high school
OR Applicant must have passed the California High School Proficiency Exam (CHSPE) or received the Graduate Equivalency Diploma (GED) the previous school year and must be currently attending college as a full-time student.
3. All scholarship recipients must use the scholarship within twelve (12) months of the time it was awarded. He/she must be a full-time student for the entire school year to receive the total amount of the scholarship.
4. The applicant must complete and submit the application and information according to the following instructions. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered for a scholarship.
Calling all high school aged Humboldt County 4-Her's
Are you interested in expanding your leadership involvement in the county? would you like to have a new experience in 4-H? County Ambassador Applications are open! Apply today, Applications close: February 23rd. For more information visit our 4-H Forms and Scholarships page.
Apply for the Diamond Clover Award to be recognized at the next California 4-H State Leadership Conference!
Attention 4-H families, Volunteers, and Alumni:
We want to hear from you!! There will be a Lamb BBQ Planning Meeting February 26th at 6:30 pm at the County Office. Attendees will discuss the positives and areas that need improvement for Lamb BBQ so the event best serves our community!
Training on Feb 15th from 9:00am - 5:30pm
Register for the upcoming Youth Mental Health First Aid Training with California 4-H. Develop techniques to address mental health and substance use challenges. Costs sponsored by California 4-H.
Weekly Updates 1/15/24 - 1/21/24
California 4-H Emergency Preparedness
California 4-H is now part of a nationwide effort to train young people in emergency preparedness through the MyPI (Preparedness Initiative) program, developed by Mississippi State University. We are the 28th state/territory-level program to partner with the national MyPI team to train instructors – but the first to allow young people to participate in the three-day instructor workshop. Learn more about the training and plans to start in Northern California and expand the program statewide.
The Redwood Acres Fair Junior Fair Board is looking for new members!
Requirements:
• Youth must currently be entered or enrolled in a Humboldt, Del Norte or Trinity County high school
• Youth must reside in Humboldt, Del Norte or Trinity County
• Youth must be an enrolled member in good standing with a 4-H Club, FFA Chapter, or the Grange in Humboldt, Del Norte or Trinity County, or have an active interest in supporting our district fairgrounds by assisting with community minded events.
• Youth must have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher
• Youth must be willing to make the activities of the Junior Fair Board a top priority up to and during the Redwood Acres Fair
• Youth must be willing to help with three or more events at the fairgrounds throughout the year.
• Members of the Redwood Acres Junior Fair Board must re-apply to the board every two years.
• Applicants must submit a printed application (make a digital copy and complete the application in google drive) and 2 letters of recommendation from adults not related to them (i.e. teacher, leader, advisor, or community members).
Contact our office if you are interested in the link to the application!
40th Annual California State 4-H Shooting Sports Match
Entries postmarked by March 15, 2024
It’s time to sharpen up your shooting skills and begin preparing for the 40th Annual California State 4-H Shooting Sports Match, sponsored by the Siskiyou County 4-H Council. There will be Junior, Intermediate and Advanced Divisions in the following categories: Air Rifle, Sporter Air Rifle, Sporter Air Rifle (Prone Only), .22 Rifle Open Sights, .22 Rifle Open Sights (Prone Only), .22 Rifle Iron Peep, .22 Rifle Telescopic Sights, .22 Rifle Telescopic Sights (Prone Only), .22 Competition Rifle, .22 Hand Gun, American Skeet, and American Trap. Registration is now open and all entries MUST be postmarked by March 15, 2023. For complete details, including match rules and registration procedures, please see the Shooting Sports event packet.
Weekly Updates 1/8/24 - 1/14/24
Miranda 4H Community Club Update - December
"During the month of December Miranda 4-h participated in several community events. Our club started the month with our annual awards ceremony where we received the top club award! We made holiday cards for the local senior center as well as the local Skilled nursing facility. Our club decorated the Mateel community center for the community Christmas dinner that is hosted by our local Veterans. We also participated in the Southern Humboldt lighted parade. Our club received the best youth float!. Our club held a baked goods fundraiser during the parade as well. Miranda 4-h went Caroling at the Skilled Nursing Facility and delivered gifts for the residents."
~Sawyer McMahan, Club Reporter
2024 Redwood Acres Fair Dates to Know
Friday, March 15: Entries open, premium book released
Friday, April 19: Large Animal Market entries close
Friday, Mary 17: Small Animal & Breeding entries close
Tuesday, June 18: Haul in Day
June 19-23: Fair Week
4-H SHOOTING SPORTS NATIONAL QUIZ BOWL
Individual & Team Registration Now Open!
4-H Shooting Sports National Quiz Bowl
January 15-19, 2024
The 2024 4-H Shooting Sports National Quiz Bowl registration portal is now open. This year’s quizzes consist of 50 questions for Intermediates/Seniors and 25 questions for Juniors. Topics cover General 4-H, STEM, Rifle, Pistol, Shotgun, Archery, Hunting Skills, and Western Heritage.
The registration fee is $10 for individuals and $40 for teams. Members of a team are also scored as individuals, allowing them to receive awards and recognition in both categories. Upon registration you will be provided a link to the study materials and a personal quiz link. The quiz may be taken January 15-19, 2024. You will only have one chance to take the quiz. Quiz scores are based on the number of correct answers and the amount of time remaining in the quiz. Age divisions for individual entries are Junior (ages 9-11), and Intermediate/Senior (ages 12-19). The age division for team entries is determined by the age of the oldest team member.
Registration can be completed by clicking the appropriate link below. Good luck!
2023 4-H Wrapped
Check out the video, 2023 4-H Wrapped on YouTube
Check out the video, 2023 4-H Wrapped on YouTube
Apply to be a California 4-H State Ambassador to represent the state program on every level. 4-H State Ambassador Applications close on January 22.
Weekly Updates 1/1/24 - 1/7/24
Miranda 4-H Community Club Update - December
"On December 6th Miranda 4h was honored with the top club award. The club was presented the award at our annual awards ceremony that was held at the Redwood Palace in Miranda. The county 4h representative Kaylin Nylander came to present us the award. The award was in recognition for all that our club had done for the community in the 2022-2023 4h year. Last year our little club took on the biggest 4h fundraiser in the county, the lamb bbq. It was a huge success. We fed hundreds of people and raised thousands in funds to help support the 4h program for the county. Every year we work closely with the local veterans group on many projects. From decorating for their holiday meals to getting cards out to the local veterans in homes or hospitals. We are always happy to help. The veterans representative Tom Pi gifted our club a trip to the skating rink to say thank you for all we have helped with. We also work with the local skilled nursing facility and the healy senior center to get cards out on all holidays. As well as every year we receive the Christmas wishlist from the residents at the skilled nursing facility and deliver them presents for Christmas. This last year one of our members thought up and created blessing bags for those in need. Every year we host a canned food drive to support our local community. We were able to have Nature Joe come with all his animals from reptiles to parrots it was an exciting bit of science. Our members always love working with the community and supporting wherever we can. By Sawyer McMahan"
Fortuna 4-H Community Club Update - December
"This month our club was full of giving, laughter, and lots of Christmas cheer. We started off the month with our monthly meeting. At our meeting we had a quick review of upcoming project meetings, upcoming events, and we did a review about how we are planning to decorate our float for the lighted parade. We then gathered all our of donations that our club members had brought for the local Santa Sleigh program, we had a pizza party, played some super fun games, and ended the night with a fun gift exchange. The following day some of our club members and parents got right into decorating our float for the annual Al Grey Lighted Parade. Our float was decorated with lots of lights, Christmas decorations, farm animals and lots of cheerful kids! Our clubs float was awarded the Best-Non-Profit Entry. Our January meeting is right around the corner and it will be full of our club members doing presentations and we will be gathering socks for less fortunate. Fortuna 4-H would like to wish you and your family a very Happy New Year.
Saige Machado-Reporter/Fortuna 4-H"
Launch Image Gallery: December 2023 Fortuna
Freshwater 4-H Community Club Update - December
"On December 11, Freshwater 4H went Christmas caroling at Grenada and Timber Ridge to spread Christmas cheer to the residents. After they were done caroling, they enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies."
~Cambria Jones, Club Reporter
Hydesville 4H Community Club Update - December
"December was a month of giving for our Hydesville 4-H Club. Our Baking Group spent all day baking wonderful treats to deliver to the community! These kiddos hand delivered over 30 platters of treats! Also gifts were wrapped for our Hydesville families. The dessert auction was able to provide gifts to 8 Hydesville families this holiday season! We still found time to celebrate with a Christmas party! Our club meet at the skating rink to enjoy time together, ate a delicious dinner and exchange gifts! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Hydesville 4-H Club!"
~Bailey Henderson, Club Reporter
Launch Image Gallery: December 2023 Hydesville
Ferndale 4-H Community Club Update - December
"This month, at the monthly meeting, we had a gift exchange that went successfully. The officer team and members who wanted to participate went to the front of the room and sang fun Christmas carols. Everyone had a great time! And, on December third the Community Pride group did a great job putting together the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. Families also helped out by baking cookies for the event. Thank you to all who participated!"
~Carly Mauney, Club Reporter
Bridgeville 4-H Community Club Update - December
"In December of 2022 the Eel River Valley Daughters of the American Revolution had their first Wreaths Across America Event at Sunrise Cemetery in Fortuna, CA. For our COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT Bridgeville 4-H helped pick up the wreaths in January of 2023. The JAC took apart the wreaths so the branches could be put into green waste (courtesy of Bridgeville Elementary School) and the metal could be reused for a Bridgeville 4-H/JAC project in Fall of 2023. The Red ribbons were carefully taken off, straightened out and stored carefully. In the Fall of 2023 JAC members made 20 wreaths for the Fortuna Rehabilitation and Wellness Center to decorate their care facility. We will once again be helping pick up wreaths on January 13, 2024 and helping to take them apart, recycle and reuse them. This year there are 130 wreaths!"
~Ms. Mullan, Project Leader
Arcata Bottom 4-H Community Club Update - December
"This month Arcata Bottom 4-H had many events. The first event of the month was our annual Holiday party. We had games, crafts, and food and beverages. A lot of people had fun and it was definitely a party to remember. The next event that took place was that the officer team went shopping for North Coast Children’s Services. We bought them socks, shoes, and jackets with the money we raised. To raise the money we had an online dessert auction. That’s all for the month of December."
~Lexi Bryan, Club Reporter
Launch Image Gallery: December 2023 Arcata Bottom
Weekly Updates 12/25/23 - 12/31/23
Join the Volunteer Development Advisory Committee
Are you passionate about enhancing learning experiences for 4-H youth and adult volunteers? We are restarting the Volunteer Development Advisory Committee right NOW! Together, volunteers and 4-H professionals will collaborate to create innovative professional development opportunities for 4-H volunteers.
Commitment
Inaugural members will serve an extended term, as follows: Start date February 2024. Youth committee members will serve until June 2025, with an option to renew for one year. Adult committee members will serve until June 2026.
Time commitment
Approximately 3-5 hours per month. Quarterly 1.5-hour Zoom meetings, with independent project work between sessions.
Who can apply:
- 4-H members ages 14 to 19 during their term;
- 4-H adult volunteers (young 4-H alumni are encouraged to apply!)
- 4-H professionals - Community Education Specialists, Advisors, Staff
- UCCE Academics
See the Committee Description for more information
Advisory Committee Applications are due January 15, 2024
Become a Youth Mental Health First Aid Responder
Professional development opportunity for 4-H professionals and 4-H Adult Volunteers.
Youth Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among children and adolescents ages 12-18.
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a program of the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. It was brought to the United States in 2008 with the aim to make it as common as physical First Aid and CPR. Since the National Council brought MHFA to the U.S. in 2008, MHFA has established itself as a trusted, evidence-based training program. Youth Mental Health First was added for those working with youth ages 12-18.
Find out all the details in the First Aid Responder document
CA 4-H State Film Festival Needs Leaders
The California 4-H State Film Festival needs a new volunteer to lead the project! Last year we had a tremendous response, with lots of new 4-H'ers participating in the Film Festival. The Film Festival is held at State Field Day, which will be on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at UC Davis.
Please help us keep this growing contest at State Field Day! Spread the word to anyone you think might be interested in leading this contest. Please contact 4hsfd@ucanr.edu if you are interested or have any questions.
SAVE THE DATE: State Field Day
May 25, 2024
The California 4-H State Field Day will take place on Saturday, May 25th, 2024 on the UC Davis campus. State Field Day is a single day event with multiple contests that youth ages 9 and up can participate in. Primary youth activities will also be available, as well as educational booths. State Field Day contests are a culminating activity for a variety of 4-H project areas. Some contests require that youth pre-qualify, while others are open to anyone.
State Field Day 2024 will offer the following contests:
- State Presentations*
- State Fashion Revue* - State Fashion Revue categories
- Interview - Interview Contest job descriptions
- Robotics
- Forestry
- Insect Identification
- Photography
- Film Festival
- Plant Science
*These contests require youth to pre-qualify at a county and/or regional event.
More details will be available in Spring 2024.
Weekly Updates 12/18/23 - 12/24/23
Rooted in history, reimagined for the future. CWF is back again to help you learn about what it takes to be a leader.
Next year's dates are:
Week 1: June 15 – 22, 2024
Week 2: June 20 – 27, 2024
Stay tuned to learn more on the Citizenship Washington Focus website.
Limited eXtension Support Over Holiday Break
As we approach the festive holiday season, we want to keep you informed about some temporary changes to our support services for the eXtension Learning Management System.
- Limited Support Period
Between December 15, 2023, and January 7, 2024, we anticipate a reduction in our support availability. Please plan accordingly and be aware that response times during this period may be extended.
- Resuming Normal Operations
Normal operations will resume on Monday, January 8, 2024. Any outstanding support tickets received during the break will be addressed promptly in the order they were received.
- Tutorials for Assistance
For those looking for tutorials on utilizing the eXtension Learning Management System, we encourage you to visit the CA 4-H Resource Center. Comprehensive guides and resources are available to assist you in navigating the system seamlessly.
- Login Assistance
If you encounter issues with forgotten passwords or experience difficulties accessing your account, our dedicated eXtension team is ready to help. Reach out to us directly at campushelp@extension.org, and we'll ensure a swift resolution to your concerns.
- Technical Support
Should you encounter any challenges while exploring the courses offered by CA 4-H, don't hesitate to submit a support ticket. Our team is committed to promptly addressing your inquiries and ensuring you stay on the path to success. Your achievements are our top priority!
As we take this short break to celebrate the holidays, we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. We look forward to assisting you with renewed energy when normal operations resume.
Spring 2024 Online Workshop Series for 4-H Project Leaders
Tuesdays in March 2024, 6:30-8:30pm
Register for the 4-H Project Leaders Workshop Series
The series returns in March 2024! Online Workshop Series for 4-H Project Leaders. Learn about your role, responsibilities, lesson planning, making learning engaging, working with youth of all ages, and effective hands-on learning.
The complete series is 4, 2-hour sessions offered Tuesdays, March 5, 12, 19, & 26. Complete the series and earn a 4-H name badge!
FOR CLUB AND PROJECT LEADERS!
We're currently recruiting guest speakers for the launch of "The Volunteer Café Webinar Series," a bi-monthly, 1-hour exploration of creative and innovative practices by our very own CA 4-H Volunteer Club and Project Leaders. This series is set to launch in March 2024 and we are looking for volunteers who would be willing to share and showcase their creative and innovative programming with their peers.
TO LEARN MORE about what’s involved in becoming a guest speaker for The Volunteer Café webinar series, download the Volunteer Cafe information flyer.
Let's create waves of inspiration together!
ADULTS NEEDED FOR SLC PLANNING
Join the State Leadership Conference (SLC) Planning Team! The application deadline is extended until January 5th. We have started planning, but are still in need of more 4-H adult volunteers to help make SLC the best one ever. For more information and to complete the SLC Planning Team Application by January 5th, apply now!
Growth, Learning and Victory: California 4-H Excels at NJHA 2023
Congratulations to the California 4-H Horticulture team! All of the team members placed high individually, and together they placed 2nd overall at the 2023 National Junior Horticultural Association (NJHA) annual convention! We are so excited about their great achievements, especially after having to miss the competition for the past two years due to COVID. Kudos to the team and their coach Michael Rethwisch, UCCE Farm Advisor in Riverside County.
Thanks to the Plant Science Contest at State Field Day, Junior 4-H members were inspired to attend with the California 4-H team and placed 1st and 2nd in the Junior division!
Read the full NJHA Blog Post.
2024 California 4-H Camping Conference
Mission Possible
March 8-10, 2024
Redwood Glen Camp & Conference Center
Learn how to create safe, engaging, educational—and fun!—spaces for campers. During this weekend retreat, learn through hands-on activities and network with camp enthusiasts from across California.
This conference is sponsored by the 4-H Camping Advisory Committee. It is open to all camp adult and teen leaders.
This conference is held every other year. Don't miss this opportunity! Register and learn more on the Camping Conference event page.
Weekly Updates 12/4/23 - 12/10/23
Hydesville 4-H Community Club Update - November
"At our November Hydesville 4-H meeting it began with a very successful Dessert Auction. The community and members were very generous with bringing and purchasing desserts! All proceeds were donated back to a local Hydesville Charity. After the auction we had our monthly meeting. At the meeting we talked about all the upcoming projects and our holiday party then it ended with a fun game of find the turkeys!"
-Bailey Henderson, Club Reporter
Hydesville November 2023
Fortuna 4-H Community Club Update - November
"Fortuna 4-H has been extremely busy doing one community service after another to make a difference. Our month started off with our monthly community service meeting. We reviewed our club reports then, headed right into our guest speaker from the Fortuna Santa Sleigh program. Nicole, from the program, spoke about how the program works and what our club can do to help. After discussing and voting we as a club decide to have our members donate Art supplies, board games, Legos, learning toys, and fuzzy socks, and hats for seniors. We are also going to collect canned goods for the program. Our club was very fortunate enough to team up with the Fortuna Rotary Club to put up and take down flags on Main Street in Fortuna for Veterans Day. This community service is always make you be extra thankful for our freedom. Our club members colored Thanksgiving placemats to pass out to seniors in our community. We also made a thankful tree that we were able to display at Bobs Footlongs. Members of our club and help from the parents we discussed how we could decorate our float for the annual Al Grey Lighted Parade. Our goal is to make it as merry and bright as possible. We also discussed our upcoming holiday party. It’s always a fun party with lots of laughter, good food, and memories! Our garden club has been very busy, making beautiful holiday wreaths for there families , our poultry club had a poultry potluck, and we welcomed our new beef leaders.
Fortuna 4-H wishes you and your family a very merry Christmas.
Saige Machado Fortuna 4-H Reporter"
Launch Image Gallery: November 2023 Fortuna
Ferndale 4-H Community Club Update - November
"Our monthly club meeting included a Thanksgiving potluck & dessert bar. Local Pastor Daniel Porter spoke to the group about his experience serving in the military overseas. It was a very interesting talk & we appreciate his service! Club members Ellie Busher & Quincey Titus did a great job chairing our Thanksgiving Food Basket. Our Community Pride Group has been very busy preparing for the Christmas Tree Lighting, which will be held on Sunday December 3rd in Ferndale. We hope to see you all there!"
-Carly Mauney, Club Reporter
Miranda 4-H Community Club Update - November
"In the month of November Miranda 4-h pulled together a successful canned food drive. Our club teamed up to make and deliver Thanksgiving cards to the elderly. Miranda 4h club members came together to decorate for the Veterans Thanksgiving dinner. looking forward to what next month has to bring to us."
- Sawyer McMahan, Club Reporter
Weekly Updates 11/27/23 - 12/3/23
California 4-H Ignite Attendee Contact Form
Are you going to Ignite by 4-H? Then please fill out this California 4-H Ignite Attendee Contact Form ASAP! It has critical fields regarding allergies, and ADA accommodations that will be provided to Nationals.
Ignite by 4-H Wait List
Did you want to go to Ignite by 4-H but it sold out before you could register? There's a wait list just for you! Fill out the Ignite wait list form and you could be going to Ignite too!
Weekly Updates 11/13/23 - 11/26/23
2024 California 4-H Horse Classic
July 6-7 Educational Contests
July 6-10 Horse Classic
Brookside Show Park, Elk Grove, CA
Weekly Updates 11/6/23 - 11/12/23
Ferndale 4-H Community Club Update - October
"This month, we held our October club meeting. At the end of the meeting, members participated in a costume contest, and a pumpkin decorating contest. Later in the month, our Community Pride group met to begin planning the annual Christmas Tree Lighting event."
~ Carly Mauney, Club Reporter
Ignite by 4-H | March 13-17, 2024
Ignite by 4-H, an inclusive teen event, returns March 2024 to Washington, D.C. Join us for four days of inspiring speakers, workshop sessions, activities, and entertainment. The summit will provide high-school aged youth from across the country the opportunity to explore the best 4-H has to offer in STEM, Agriscience, and Healthy Living. Discover exciting career paths, make connections, and create an action plan to ignite change in your community!
Counties are encouraged to register together as a group.
Please note the following deadlines:
• Early Bird registration by noon ET, 11/9/12
• General Admission: through 1/12/24 or until sold out
The State Office will coordinate to prepare all registered groups attending on behalf of California 4-H.
Please see the Ignite by 4-H event site for more information and to register.
"Are you aware of upcoming rules and requirements that fairs, and swine exhibitors must follow from January 1, 2024, onwards? To ensure our fairs and swine exhibitors are updated and ready for the 2024 show year, the Animal Care Program has created an engaging and informative video to assist swine exhibitors in navigating these regulations.
You can view the video by visiting to our website, checking out our YouTube channel, or by scanning the QR code provided.
Follow us for future updates, and don't forget to spread the word by sharing our video!"
From CDFA Animal Care
From CDFA Animal Care
To our Volunteer Unit Leaders:
The state office has created an updated helpsheet for you to confirm member enrollments. This update better aligns with the current unit report options in ZSuite. Please be sure to consult with your local 4-H county office on their preferred method to confirm members.
ALL helpsheets and videos can be found on the California 4-H Enrollment webpage.
National 4-H Conference
Participation in the National 4-H Conference starts & ends STRONG! Apply on the National 4-H Conference site by Nov 30 to be a part of it.
Support 4-H on Giving Tuesday, November 28, the worldwide day of giving! This year, you can double your donation, thanks to the California 4-H Foundation! Counties can receive up to $3,000 in matching funds for donations submitted between 12am and 12pm on November 28. Donate on the Giving Tuesday website.
Save the Date for the California 4-H Camping Conference March 8-10, 2024
Camping Conference is open to everyone; camp directors, leaders, and teen leaders, as well as those with an interest in camp or who are looking to start a new camp.
Fundraising Reminders
Fundraising Reminders: Part 1 of 6
It's always a good idea to review some Fundraising Basics! Full policies can be found under 'Financial Management' in the 4-H Policy Manual on the California 4-H website: https://4h.ucanr.edu/Resources/Policies/Chapter9/
Regarding the budget:
All 4-H Clubs and Councils must prepare an annual budget, have it approved by their membership, and submitted to the UCCE county office for approval. The retention of excess funds at the end of the program year is strongly discouraged.
Fundraising Reminders: Part 2 of 6
Full policies can be found under 'Financial Management' in the 4-H Policy Manual on the California 4-H website: https://4h.ucanr.edu/Resources/Policies/Chapter9/
Regarding Expenses:
• Decisions concerning the disbursement of funds are to be made by the membership.
• For budgeted items, the treasurer should make payments only with proper documentation such as a purchase order, receipt, invoice or other supporting documentation.
• All checks must bear the signatures of two unrelated persons authorized and designated as signatories. The signer may not be the same person as the payee.
• The check memo must include the purpose of payment.
Fundraising Reminders: Part 3 of 6
Full policies can be found under 'Financial Management' in the 4-H Policy Manual on the California 4-H website: https://4h.ucanr.edu/Resources/Policies/Chapter9/
Regarding the giving of gifts:
o Giving of cash gifts (cash or checks) to individuals, businesses, or organizations is not allowed.
o Giving non-cash gifts is allowed to individuals, businesses or organizations if it can be demonstrated that the gift benefits 4-H or is clearly necessary to 4-H’s fulfillment of its role as a good community citizen.
o Non-cash gifts may only be given for the purposes of appreciation, recognition, incentive or sympathy (in the event of death, major illness or severe accident of an individual associated with 4-H or a member of the individual’s family or household).
o Sympathy gifts such as flowers, candy or a book are limited to $75 per individual per year.
o Allowable non-cash gifts include: Tangible personal property (mugs, t-shirts, etc.), mementos and non-negotiable gift certificates and gift cards (i.e., stored-value bank, department store or other retail cards that are not transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash or used to reduce the balance due on an account with the merchant).
o 4-H clubs/councils may not set up a memorial fund in the name of the deceased. However, they may give a sympathy gift to the family or a memorial fund established by someone else in memory of or in support of an individual or cause in lieu of a gift of tangible personal property (not to exceed $75).
Fundraising Reminders: Part 4 of 6
Full policies can be found under 'Financial Management' in the 4-H Policy Manual on the California 4-H website: https://4h.ucanr.edu/Resources/Policies/Chapter9/
Not Allowed:
• 4-H groups are not to conduct lotteries, raffles, bingo, and other games of chance.
• Adult volunteers, members, Clubs and Councils may not apply for or receive contracts and grants. Contracts and grants must be processed through the UCCE county office.
Fundraising Reminders: Part 5 of 6
Full policies can be found under 'Financial Management' in the 4-H Policy Manual on the California 4-H website: https://4h.ucanr.edu/Resources/Policies/Chapter9/
Regarding income:
Fundraising Approval: All proposed fundraising activities must be approved via an adopted budget or by an affirmative vote of the membership. All proposed fundraising activities of 4-H clubs and Councils must be submitted to the UCCE county office for approval using Form 8.7 Fundraising Approval.
Fundraising Reminders: Part 6 of 6
Full policies can be found under 'Financial Management' in the 4-H Policy Manual on the California 4-H website: https://4h.ucanr.edu/Resources/Policies/Chapter9/
Regarding Receiving Non-Cash Items:
• 4-H groups may collect non-cash items.
• EXCEPT: 4-H does not accept animals, guns, or firearms as gifts or donations. Any such gifts should be made directly to individuals. (however, gifts to individuals are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal or state income tax purposes.)