Howard 4-H

4-H Youth Development in Howard County

4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization, empowering young people to lead, learn, and serve. The University of Maryland Extension’s 4-H program helps youth ages 5-18 reach their fullest potential through research-backed, hands-on learning experiences that build life skills, leadership, confidence, and meaningful connections to their communities.

Maryland 4-H programs vary by county and may be offered through clubs, camps, after-school programs, fairs, school partnerships, and community organizations. Contact our office for more information about 4-H youth programs available in Howard County.

About 4-H         Enroll in 4-H          Maryland 4-H Calendar

Become a 2027 Howard County 4-H Teen Leader!

Are you ready to build your leadership skills, mentor younger youth, and make a difference in the lives of 4-H members? Howard County 4-H is inviting eligible teens to apply for a 2027 Teen Leader position with the Howard County 4-H Residential Camp!

The tentative dates for the Howard County 4-H Residential Camp are June 19–26, 2027. Teen Leaders play an important role in creating a safe, welcoming, and fun environment where campers can develop new skills, build friendships, and make lasting memories.

How to Apply

Interested teens must be at least 13 years 4-H age 1/1/2026.  Complete the online application in its entirety, providing as much information about themselves as possible, and include a resume. A completed application, resume, and virtual interview are required parts of the selection process.

Click here to complete the 2027 Teen Leader Application

Application Deadline: Monday, November 30, 2026

Late applications will not be accepted.

Virtual Interviews

Interviews will be held virtually on Saturday, December 5, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00p.m. This is the only day interviews will be conducted. All applicants will receive an email confirming their assigned interview time by Wednesday, December 2, 2026.

Training Commitment

Selected Teen Leaders must attend and actively participate in all required training sessions beginning in January 2027. Training will include a combination of in-person and virtual workshops.  All Teen Leaders are required to complete 32 hours of training before camp week to prepare for their responsibilities and help ensure a safe, positive, and successful camping experience. Applicants should carefully review their schedules to ensure they can meet all trainings and participation requirements.

Make a Difference This Summer!

Interested in becoming a Teen Leader and helping make the 2027 camping season a success? We encourage you to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen your leadership skills, serve as a role model, and make a lasting impact on younger 4-H members.

For questions, contact Chris Rein, Howard County 4-H Program Coordinator, at (410) 313-1915 or crein@umd.edu.  We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming our next group of Howard County 4-H Teen Leaders!

4-H in Howard County

Join 4-H

Howard County 4-H'ers participate in county-wide programs organized by volunteers and University of Maryland Extension faculty.  These programs include fashion shows, camps, public speaking contests, workshops, and more.  With so many community clubs and specialty clubs in Howard County, there is always something to do in Howard County 4-H!

Visit the Howard County 4-H Club List to find specific information about joining a club and the 4-H clubs in Howard County. If you have any questions, please contact the 4-H Administrative Assistant at 410-313-2707.

4-H FAQs Scholarship Information

4-H Enrollment Information

4-H Member Enrollment

Enrollment for members and volunteers is open. Please enroll by March 1st. Please note that 4-H Online has a new landing page. It is super easy. Sign In if you are a returning 4-H member, or Sign Up if you are new to 4-H Online. 

Visit the Howard County 4-H Club List to find specific information about joining a club and the 4-H clubs in Howard County. If you have any questions, please contact the 4-H Administrative Assistant at 410-313-2707 or refer to our 4-H FAQs.

When paying for 4-H events, checks need to be made payable to:
University of Maryland
Ascend One Building
8930 Stanford Blvd, Suite 25
Columbia, MD 21045

4-H Volunteer Enrollment

New and returning volunteers must complete the Qualtrics survey after watching the video for new and returning volunteers.

New Volunteers
Volunteer Refresher

Events & Newsletters

Office Closures

Please note that our 4-H Office is closed on County Government Energy Saving Days. Our 4-H Office is affected by the Howard County Government Energy Saving Days. During these days, the Ascend One Building will be physically closed to the public; staff will be working remotely to ensure the needs of community members are still being met and are accessible via email. 

Please make note of the following days for the rest of this year:

  • March: 30th - April 2nd and the 3rd holiday
  • June:  29th - July  2nd and the 3rd holiday
  • August:  3rd - 7th - the week before the fair
  • November: 23rd - 25th - 26th & 27th holiday

Forms & Resources

Howard County 4-H Record Books & Forms

Forms for Organizational Leaders

Financial Documentation Information

Charter Application Supporting Documents (Due December 1st)

 

Program Areas

Maryland 4-H Program Areas

4-H Curricula

Mission & Vision

Maryland 4-H Mission

The Maryland 4-H Youth Development Program provides a supportive and inclusive setting for all youth to reach their fullest potential in a diverse society. Youth learn beneficial and cognitive life skills through community-focused, research-based experiential education programs.

Maryland 4-H Vision

Maryland 4-H aspires to be a recognized leading youth development program that inspires youth and adults to learn, grow, and work together as catalysts for positive change.

The Four Hs

Head, Heart, Hands, and Health are the four Hs in 4‑H. These values guide the programs that help young people learn, grow, and contribute to their communities.   Through life‑changing 4‑H experiences, nearly six million young people nationwide have taken on important issues such as community health inequities, civil discourse, and advocacy for equity and inclusion.

The 4-H Pledge

"I Pledge my Head to clearer thinking,
my Heart to greater loyalty,
my Hands to larger service,
and my Health to better living,
for my club, my community, my country, and my world."

Motto

"To Make The Best Better"

4-H National Council

Maryland 4-H Resources

University of Maryland Extension's 4-H resources are free and support hands-on learning in STEM, agriculture, leadership, healthy living, and civic engagement. Discover educational materials, guides, and project publications designed for 4-H youth, parents, educators, and club leaders.  Explore all 4-H resources.

More Howard County Extension Programs