SAN LUIS VALLEY— The 4-H Youth Development Program is hosting two open house events this fall to recruit new members. These free events will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 25 at HobbyTown in Alamosa and Thursday, Oct. 11 at the SLV Area Extension office in Monte Vista. Families with kids ages eight to 18 are encouraged to drop in to learn about the program and complete free fun projects.
At open house events, kids get to try out mini-projects inspired by some of our 4-H projects, like cake decorating, wildlife and rocketry. Youth can decorate a cookie, build a paper rocket, or make a wildlife collage. While kids work on projects, parents can learn more about the 4-H program by talking to staff and youth members.
4-H is the largest youth development organization in the country. There are 15 clubs scattered throughout the San Luis Valley, which are home to 300 members and 70 volunteers. As part of the club experience, kids practice public speaking, do community service, and hold leadership positions. They also sign up for 4-H projects, like cake decorating, photography, horse, and robotics, which align with their interests.
Families interested in participating can drop in to either open house anytime during the scheduled times. The events are free and no registration is required. The 4-H program is open to hosting Open House events in other areas of the Valley, but needs assistance in identifying a free space to host the event, and some volunteer assistance running it. Those interested in getting additional events scheduled closer to them can contact 719-852-7381 to discuss.
HobbyTown, host of the Sept. 25 4-H Open House, is located at 3211 Main Street in Alamosa. The San Luis Valley Area Extension Office, host of the Oct. 11 event, is located at 1899 E. Hwy 160 in Monte Vista. For more information about 4-H, visit http://sanluisvalley.colostate.edu or call 719-852-7381. 4-H is a cooperative effort between Colorado State University Extension and Alamosa, Conejos, Costilla, Mineral, Rio Grande and Saguache counties. Extension programs are available to all without discrimination.