October

National 4-H Month

In 1909, researchers in agricultural colleges across the nation discovered that youth were more likely than adults to experiment with the new agricultural discoveries coming out of the ag research stations. The youth would then share their experiences and successes with the adults. Four-H clubs were formed to share research with youth, who would then pass their experiences along to adults. All of Oklahoma's 77 counties had 4-H by 1937.

In 1944, President Roosevelt asked rural boys and girls to help support troops fighting in World War II. Four-H'ers produced enough food to care for one million soldiers for three years.

4-H National Science Day at OSU, Photo courtesy of Oklahoma State University.

Today, Oklahoma 4-H has more than 18,130 members and volunteers who continue to use their time and efforts to help Oklahoma through projects including agriculture, citizenship, healthy living, science and technology, food science, and environmental education. As 4-H'ers celebrate National 4-H Week and Oklahoma 4-H Month during October, they will begin a new century of keeping it green as they raise awareness about environmental issues and make a difference for Oklahoma's future.

Students research the beginnings of 4-H or some other youth organization and report their findings to the class.

For information about 4-H in your area, contact OSU Cooperative Extension Service in your county.