University of Nevada, Reno Extension 4-H Youth Development Program is hosting the Washoe County 4-H Festival at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park’s Farms and Families Area on Oct. 14, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. This free event provides an opportunity for youth and their families to meet Washoe County 4-H clubs’ participants and leaders and see the variety of 4-H activities that are available for youth in Washoe County.

Clubs specializing in beekeeping, cooking, photography, arts and crafts, and shooting sports will be on hand, offering information and fun activities. There will also be quite a showing of different critters raised by youth in 4-H animal clubs, such as rabbits, poultry, dogs, horses, goats, livestock, reptiles and amphibians. Attendees will be encouraged to interact with as many booths as possible and complete different activities at each booth in order to earn a prize.

“We are excited for the opportunity to demonstrate to families in the community how they can participate in the 4-H Youth Development Program in Washoe County,” Kelsey Conklin, 4-H Youth Development Program instructor, said. “This event is a great opportunity to come out and participate in some of the experiential learning activities that 4-H clubs do, while also getting to meet some leaders and members.”

Conklin said that the event is aimed at youth curious about joining a 4-H club, as well as adults who may be interested in volunteering. 

4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization. Using the expertise and resources of University and the nationwide land-grant university system in Nevada, Extension’s 4-H Youth Development Program provides youth (ages 5-19) with hands-on, peer-driven learning experiences in agricultural science, STEM, civic engagement, healthy living and outdoor education through club, camp, in-school and after-school programs. Young people who participate in Nevada 4-H learn essential skills, such as leadership, problem solving, conflict resolution, public speaking and communication, that are needed to succeed in school, in the workplace and in life.

In fact, a 10-year study by Tufts University shows that 4-H youth are four times more likely to contribute to their communities, five times more likely to graduate from higher education, and two times more likely to pursue STEM opportunities outside of school and make healthy choices.

For more information on the Washoe County 4-H Festival, contact Sam Mitchell at 775-336-0259. Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should contact Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at 702-257-5577 at least three days prior to the scheduled event with their needs or for more information.