Learn about Kitsap 4-H Clubs — Oct. 13 at Kitsap Mall

4-HKitsap County 4-H Clubs kick off their new year and a special partnership with the Kitsap Mall at a Welcome to 4-H! event from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 13 at the Kitsap Mall, 10315 Silverdale Way NW, Silverdale. Learn more about 4-H, which is so much more than cows and plows — and those who saw the over 2,500 4-H exhibits at the Kitsap County Fair know the clubs have expanded way beyond raising animals.

More than 20 Kitsap County 4-H clubs will showcase their projects, offer hands-on activities and answer questions about opportunities for both youth and adults to get involved. Clubs will bring large animals to the pocket park at the main entrance of the Kitsap Mall between Dick’s Sporting Goods and Sears, and tables will be set up inside the main doors around the food court and play area.

4-H clubs offer young people ages 5 through 18 years (not yet 19 years of age as of Oct. 1) a chance to learn photography, computer coding, leadership, archery, Lego robotics, sewing, cooking, raising animals of all kinds and much more. Through participation in 4-H, youth gain life skills to help reach their fullest potential such as budgeting, record keeping, responsibility, goal setting, public speaking and community service.

Local clubs are eager for new members and their families to join them, and everyone is welcome. Adults who want to start a club or volunteer for other activities can also register at the event.

“4-H is the largest youth development organization in the nation,” said Elisabeth Nilsson, coordinator of Kitsap County 4-H, a program of Washington State University Kitsap Extension. “We use an experiential, hands-on learning model that allows youth to learn life skills while doing things that they enjoy.”

What does 4-H stand for? Head, Heart, Hands and Health. For more information, contact Elisabeth Nilsson at elisabeth [dot] nilsson@wsu [dot] edu or 360-337-7057×6270. Visit the Kitsap County 4-H Youth Development website.