Body of News Release
Marin County, CA – The 4-H program in Marin County is welcoming kids ages 5-18 to check out all its fun and informative programming while also inviting adult volunteers to help inspire the youngsters.
A new fall catalog, compiled by the Marin staff of University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE), answers questions about what’s going on locally with 4-H – a reference to Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. The catalog serves as a guide to all regular 4-H meetings and an array of special interest projects or classes. There’s also a handbook for families that summarizes all 4-H programs.
Since 1924, 4‑H has helped young people and their families gain the skills needed to be proactive forces in their communities and develop ideas for a more innovative economy. 4‑H offers hands-on projects in areas such as health, agriculture, science, technology, and civic engagement. Other fun hands-on activities include crocheting, rocketry, gardening, and floriculture.
National 4-H Week is October 5-11, and UCCE Marin 4-H’s Achievement Day is Sunday, October 12, at the Grossi Family Pumpkin Patch just outside Novato (3666 Novato Boulevard). The event starts at 2 PM and includes awards for participants in last season’s programs plus a celebration of all partner agencies, businesses, and volunteers who contribute to 4-H. Families can learn more about programs at the 4-H booth and buy a treat at the program’s bake sale.
In 2024, UCCE Marin collaborated with the Marin County Free Library to offer free monthly STEM classes at library branches in Novato and Fairfax. “It was really successful, and we’d like to add another branch or two,” said 4-H Coordinator Kayla Gulick. “Whenever we experience success like that, we thrive to expand the offering, but volunteer support is essential to sustaining and growing our program.”
UCCE Marin is working on programming for middle schoolers and high schoolers about vocational jobs. Staff would like to connect and build relationships with leaders in the trades who are willing to contribute time and expertise by enlightening local youth about their occupations.
Also, the staff is inviting passionate adults to step up as volunteers and lead fun, hands-on classes after some training. “It’s a rewarding opportunity to share your skills and passions, give back to the community, and inspire the next generation to discover their fullest potential," Gulick said.
Check the UCCE Marin website for more information about registration for children or volunteering.
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For disability accommodations, please phone (415) 473-4204 (voice), CA Relay 711, or e-mail UCCE Marin staff at least five business days in advance of the event. The County will do its best to fulfill requests received with less than five business days’ notice. Copies of documents are available in alternative formats, upon request.