4-H offers many ways for youth across North Carolina to get involved based on their interests and availability. Youth ages 5–18 can participate in activities throughout the year, whether they want to try something new, build a skill, compete, travel, or meet other members from across the state.
Members can explore projects in areas such as STEM, creative arts, agriculture, leadership, and community service. Opportunities may include clubs, camps, workshops, contests, leadership programs, and special events. Some activities take place locally, while others bring members together at district, state, and even national events. A full list of projects and resources is available on the 4-H Curriculum page.
Through these experiences, youth develop confidence and practice skills like communication, teamwork, organization, and decision-making while connecting with others who share their interests.
Most programs begin through your local 4-H program. Your county 4-H agent can help you find activities near you and explain how to register or prepare. To get started, connect with your local 4-H agent or explore the opportunities below.
Awards & Incentives Programs
NC 4-H Awards & Incentives Programs recognize members for their involvement, growth, and accomplishments throughout the year. Through opportunities such as project records, portfolios, presentations, scholarships, and national trip applications, youth reflect on their experiences and build skills that prepare them to be beyond ready for future leadership, education, and career opportunities.
Teen Programs
NC 4-H Teen Programs give older youth opportunities to become more involved beyond their local clubs and counties. Through leadership roles, planning activities, and working with peers from across the state, teens build confidence, form lasting connections, and take an active role in shaping the 4-H program.
Citizenship Programs
NC 4-H Citizenship Programs help youth explore their role in their communities and develop a deeper understanding of civic engagement. Through service, leadership experiences, and educational opportunities, participants learn how they can make a positive impact locally, nationally, and globally.
Electric Program
The NC 4-H Electric Program introduces youth to the fundamentals of electricity, energy, and electrical safety through hands-on learning experiences. Participants explore how electricity works while developing technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and real-world applications of energy use.
International Programs
NC 4-H International Programs provide youth with opportunities to engage in cultural exchange and global learning experiences. Through travel, hosting, and international partnerships, participants build leadership skills while gaining a broader understanding of cultures and communities around the world.
Shooting Sports Program
The NC 4-H Shooting Sports Program teaches safe and responsible use of shooting sports equipment through structured, supervised instruction. Members learn skills related to safety, discipline, and conservation while working with trained adult volunteers and instructors in a supportive learning environment.
Dr. Kim Ingold Photography Contest
The Dr. Kim Ingold NC 4-H Photography Contest gives youth the opportunity to showcase their creativity and photography skills. Youth submit photos in a variety of categories while learning about composition, lighting, storytelling, and other techniques that help capture meaningful moments through photography.
Dinah Gore Healthy Food Challenge
The Dinah Gore 4-H Healthy Food Challenge is a team-based cooking and nutrition contest where members work together to prepare a dish using a surprise ingredient and a set of available pantry items. In addition to cooking, teams present their dish to judges and explain its nutritional value, teamwork, and preparation process.
