Welcome to York 4-H! We are excited to welcome you to our 4-H Community and help you learn more about our association.
York 4-H 2025 Club Descriptions
Cloverbuds (ages 6 to 8) – Filling up fast!
The 4-H Cloverbud Program is an amazing introduction to the world of 4-H, designed especially for youth ages 6-8. This dynamic and hands-on, activity-based program gives younger participants the opportunity to explore a wide range of engaging topics, including agriculture, food, crafts, life skills, environmental stewardship, and science. Through interactive games, sports and creative projects, Cloverbuds experience the fun and excitement of learning while developing important life skills. The Cloverbud Program is tailored to spark curiosity and encourage exploration, helping participants gain a sense of belonging and teamwork while building confidence. They’ll get a chance to “sample” various 4-H projects in a supportive and age-appropriate environment, which helps prepare them for deeper engagement in 4-H as they grow older. Beyond the activities, the program introduces young members to the core values of 4-H—head, heart, hands, and health—and inspires a lifelong love for learning, leadership, and community involvement. It’s a fantastic way to foster new friendships, have fun, and begin a meaningful 4-H journey!
Tentative Cloverbud Dates (may change)
Meeting 1- Mar 29th in the morning or Mar 30th in the afternoon.
April 4th- in the evening, touring a firehall
May 3rd- 2pm-4pm
June 21st- 2pm-4pm
August 16th- 2pm-4pm
Sept 20th – 2pm-4pm
The following clubs are for members ages 9 -21 (as of January 1st)
Dairy Club
Dive into the world of dairy farming with our engaging and educational 4-H Dairy Club! Learn the fundamentals of a successful dairy operation, including top-notch animal care and the latest tools and practices in the industry.
For Senior Members: Take your skills to the next level by training and showing a dairy calf, gaining valuable experience and confidence in the process.
For Junior Members: Get hands-on experiences that lay the foundation for future success, preparing you to train and show your own project calf when the time comes.
Whether you’re new to dairy farming or looking to build on your knowledge, this club is the perfect opportunity to grow your skills and passion!
Guinea Pig Club
Did you know a happy guinea pig “popcorns” and “wheeks”? These are a few of the fun facts you will learn in Guinea Pig Club! Guinea Pigs are amazing pets (and vocal ones too), We will be learning about the different breeds of guinea pigs, how to keep them safe and healthy, and how to show them to a judge. Our achievement will be demonstrating our showmanship skills at the Markham Fair. You do not need to own your own guinea pig to join (club members will be happy to share their cuddly pets).
Dates
March 29 10-12:00
April 12 10-12:00
May 10 10-12:00
August 2 10-12:00
September 13 10:12:00
October 5 Achievement at Markham Fair
Sheep Club
If you’re passionate about the lamb or sheep industry, ewe won’t want to miss out on the Sheep Club! Whether you’re new to raising sheep or looking to enhance your skills, we’ll cover everything from health and nutrition to breeding, lambing, selection, housing, and marketing. You’ll learn the ins and outs of maintaining a healthy flock and gain valuable knowledge on how to care for your sheep year-round. Plus, you’ll get hands-on experience in showing and judging sheep, learning the techniques that make a winning presentation. The Sheep Club also provides opportunities to connect with fellow sheep enthusiasts, industry experts, and mentors who can offer guidance along the way. Whether you dream of a career in the sheep industry or just want to expand your agricultural knowledge, this club has something for everyone!
Goat Club- FULL
Goats are one of the most versatile and popular farm animals, and this club is the perfect place to learn all about them! In the 4-H Goat Club, you’ll explore the basics of goat care, including health, nutrition, and breed identification, while discovering the unique benefits goats offer, from milk to fiber and beyond. You’ll gain hands-on experience as you master essential skills and have the exciting opportunity to showcase your knowledge by showing a goat at several local fairs and maybe even The Royal Winter Fair! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced goat enthusiast, this club is a fun and educational way to deepen your understanding and appreciation for these amazing animals!
Rabbit Club – FULL
This club covers anything and everything you may want to know about raising and showing our fuzzy friends, rabbits! Rabbits make great pets but sometimes get overlooked. In the Rabbit Club, you’ll learn how to choose the right breed for you, as well as how to feed and exhibit rabbits. Handling rabbits, watching them grow and learning how to care for them is what this club is all about. This year the rabbit club will be focusing on both showmanship and confirmation (the showing of the rabbit). There is lots to learn about showing a rabbit and the proper handling of the animal. Members will learn the many different breeds and purposes of rabbits. There’s always a rabbit to cuddle! No need to have your own rabbit to join the club.
Meeting Dates
Saturday March 29th, 2pm-4pm Newmarket
Saturday April 12th, 2pm-4pm Newmarket
Saturday May 10th, 2pm-4pm Newmarket
Saturday June 7th, 9am at Brooklin Fair (not showing)
Saturday August 2nd, 2pm-4pm Newmarket
Saturday September 13th, 2pm-4pm Newmarket
Achievement- Sunday October 5th, 9am at the Markham Fair
Quilting Club Part 1
Discover the art of quilting in this fun and creative club! In Part One, members will complete their first project: a quilt-top pillowcase created using special fabric provided by Quilt Canada for the Stargaze quilting competition. Guided through every stage of the quilting process, you’ll learn essential techniques, from fabric selection and cutting to piecing and sewing. Whether you’re new to quilting or building on your skills, this club is the perfect way to express your creativity and participate in an exciting national competition!
Extra Expenses will include: cotton fabric for top/back/binding, batting (1 bag), thread, quilting pins, clips (optional), thread, a quilting foot for members’ sewing machines, and fabric cutting kit with roller/ruler/mat.
Quilting Club Part 2
Take your quilting skills to the next level in Part Two of the 4-H Quilting Club! In this session, members will create a stunning twin-sized “Fields and Furrows” quilt, a modern log cabin-style pattern. You’ll be guided through every step of the quilting process, from cutting and piecing to sewing and finishing. This larger project builds on the skills learned in Part One, so prior participation is highly recommended to ensure a strong foundation for success. Join us to create a masterpiece and further explore your passion for quilting!
Quilting Meeting Dates at Markham Fairgrounds
Saturday, March 1, 2025 – 9:00 AM – 12 noon
Saturday, March 22, 2025 – 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Saturday, April 12, 2025 – 9:00 – 12 noon
Saturday, April 26, 2025 – 9:00 – 11 AM
Saturday, May 3, 2025 – 9:00 AM – 12 noon
Saturday, May 31, 2025 – 9:00 AM – 12 noon
Saturday, June 7, 2025 – 9:00 AM – 12 noon, if/as needed
Ontario’s Tasty Fruits and Veggies Club – FULL
Everyone knows fruits and vegetables are nutritious, so we’re here to show you just how delicious they can be as well. We’ll use locally grown Ontario produce to explore the many ways these fruits and veggies can be prepared and eaten. From cooking, to canning, to freezing – you’ll walk away with a new understanding of the versatility of Ontario crops. We will be visiting local farms to do our very own picking/ harvesting right out in the fields/orchards! We will also be learning how to pickle and how to make jam! So come join us if you’d like to learn more about where your food comes from.
Ice Cream Club – FULL
Indulge in all things ice cream with the 4-H Ice Cream Club! In this fun and delicious club, members will explore the world of ice cream through exciting hands-on activities. You’ll visit local ice cream shops to discover unique flavors and learn about the process behind making the perfect scoop. Then, get creative by making your own ice cream and experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Finally, put your skills to the test by judging ice cream creations, learning what makes a great flavor and texture. Whether you’re an ice cream enthusiast or just looking to learn more, this club is the perfect blend of fun, food, and flavor! This club will run in the summer.
Spice of Life -Soup and more!
The 4-H Spice of Life is a fun and welcoming community for young chefs and soup enthusiasts! This club brings together 4-H members to explore the art of soup-making while learning valuable cooking skills, nutrition basics, and teamwork. Whether crafting classic recipes or experimenting with creative new flavors, members develop confidence in the kitchen and a passion for healthy, delicious food. Activities include hands-on cooking sessions, taste-testing events, and community service projects, such as hosting a “Soup Social”. Perfect for all skill levels, the 4-H Soup Club emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and the joy of cooking while promoting healthy eating and community spirit. Join the 4-H Soup Club and stir up something amazing! Meetings will be at the Wideman Church in Markham
Tentative Dates
March 1st , 11am – 1 pm
April 5 , 11 am – 1pm
April 26th, 11 am – 1 pm
May 31st , 11 am – 1 pm
June 14 , 11am – 1-m
Final meeting TBD
Go For The Gold
The 4-H Go For the Gold Club is an exciting opportunity for youth to expand their knowledge, teamwork, and communication skills while learning about a variety of topics related to 4-H and agriculture. Members will participate in fun and interactive trivia-style activities designed to sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Throughout the season, members will work together to prepare for competitions by studying key concepts, practicing quick recall, and developing confidence in their abilities. At the end of the program, five members will be selected to represent the club at the Region Three competition, where they will compete against other teams in a fast-paced and rewarding environment. This is a fantastic way for members to showcase their dedication, build lifelong skills, and create lasting friendships with their teammates. Join the 4-H Go For the Gold Club and take on the challenge!
Outdoor Living (ages 14 to 21)
Explore the great outdoors and learn some useful outdoor skills. This club includes a two night stay at YMCA Camp Pinecrest in Torrance, ON. There will be a cost of approx $250/person which includes accommodation, programming and all meals. Activities may include: survival skills such as fire building and shelter building, orienteering, canoeing, swimming, high ropes and campfire. Girls will share one cabin and boys will share another cabin.
Camp date : June 6-8th
A Greener House: Cosmetics
The 4-H Greener House project is a hands-on, creative program where members explore the art and science of natural cosmetics and self-care. This project focuses on crafting eco-friendly and sustainable beauty products, such as facial masks, scrubs, creams, and treatments for manicures and pedicures, using simple, natural ingredients. Participants will learn about the benefits of various herbs, essential oils, and other natural materials while discovering how to create custom products tailored to different needs and preferences. Along the way, members will also explore topics like sustainability, ingredient sourcing, and packaging alternatives that are kind to the environment. This project is perfect for anyone interested in DIY beauty, natural living, or learning how to make thoughtful, handmade gifts. By the end of the program, participants will have developed a collection of personalized products and the knowledge to create a greener, more natural self-care routine.
Nature Journaling
Discover the beauty of the natural world through art and observation with the 4-H Nature Journaling Club! This hands-on club is perfect for youth who love exploring the outdoors, drawing, writing, and learning about plants, animals, and ecosystems.Members will develop their observation skills, creativity, and scientific curiosity as they document seasonal changes, wildlife behavior, and unique natural features in their journals. Activities may include guided nature walks, sketching and watercolor techniques, plant and animal identification, and creative writing prompts inspired by the environment. Nature journaling is a great way to slow down, connect with nature, and build a deeper appreciation for the world around us. No prior art or writing experience is needed—just a love for the outdoors and a willingness to explore!
Christmas Club (This will count as a 2026 Club)
The 4-H Christmas Club is a festive and creative program designed to bring the holiday spirit to life! Taking place on Saturday afternoons in November and December, this club is perfect for members who love crafting, baking, and spreading joy during the holiday season. Participants will engage in a variety of hands-on activities, such as creating handmade ornaments, designing holiday decorations, baking seasonal treats, and preparing thoughtful gifts for family and friends. The club will also explore ways to give back to the community, encouraging members to share their holiday cheer through acts of kindness and service projects. Whether you’re looking to explore your creative side or simply enjoy the magic of the season, the 4-H Christmas Club offers a fun and meaningful way to celebrate while connecting with fellow members. Join us for a holly-jolly time filled with creativity, laughter, and holiday joy! Saturday afternoons in November and December.
WHAT IS 4-H?
4-H is a grassroots organization of leaders building leaders. 4-H can be found all over the world and is based on the “Learn To Do By Doing” philosophy. The four H’s stand for Head, Heart, Health, and Hands.
4-H participants range from ages 9-21 and the Cloverbud Program is for ages 6-8. 4-H participants learn about different subjects through hands-on activities and mentorship from adult volunteers. The Cloverbud Program focuses on multiple areas to give the participants a look into the world of 4-H.
In 4-H participants are encouraged to step outside their comfort zone, try something new, build new friendships, get involved in their community and interact with their environment. These values are highlighted in the 4-H pledge, which is we say at the beginning of each meeting and event.
4-H clubs and activities are designed to help develop leadership skills including public speaking skills, communication, decision making, parliamentary procedure, meeting management and networking. It also gives the participants the opportunity to learn about different subjects. 4-H offers a safe environment and fosters personal growth and development.
4-H encourages team collaboration, peer-to-peer support, and independent learning. Leaders guide participants through activities and provide them with the freedom to make mistakes and assist one another in the learning process.
HOW DO 4-H CLUBS WORK?
4-H clubs must have a minimum of six 4-H participants and two trained and screened leaders. The leaders choose a topic to teach the participants through hands-on learning. The participants spend 12 hours or more exploring the theme during the meetings. 4-H participants may join as many clubs as they wish for a membership fee of $100.00 per year.
4-H CLUB MEETINGS
4-H clubs typically get together for six two-hour meetings. The meetings can be in many forms- tours, guest speakers, demonstrations, activities, etc. Some clubs require more time and effort than others. 4-H meetings have a formal meeting time and hands-on learning time. During meetings, 4-H’ers discuss club issues and opportunities while learning parliamentary procedure. After club business finishes, participants move onto the hands-on activities focused on the club project topic. 4-H youth MUST participate in at least two-thirds of all club meeting time and participate in the club achievement program to successfully complete the project.
THE CLUB EXECUTIVE
Each 4-H club consists of at least five positions. The roles are President, Vice President, Secretary, Press Reporter, and Photographer(s). Club participants vote to elect their peers to these positions. The executive roles provide leadership opportunities for the participants.
As the President, the participant chairs 4-H meetings. Participants vote using motions and communicating with the leaders regarding agenda items, amongst other duties. At the end of the 4-H year, there is a 4-H Awards Banquet where the President is expected to speak about what their club has done over the past year.
As Vice President, the participant fills in if the President is not able to attend the meeting and will be assigned other tasks that may include introducing and thanking guests and participants.
As the Secretary, the participant is expected to take notes on what the discussions at each meeting, take attendance, and provide a report at the next meeting. At the end of the year, each club Secretary has an opportunity to enter for the Secretary’s Award, presented at the Awards Banquet.
As the Press Reporter, the participant is expected to write at least two reports on what the club is doing or what they have done and submit them to either a local paper, the York 4-H newsletter, the York 4-H website, or to the 4-H Ontario website. At the end of the year, each club Press Reporter has an opportunity to enter for the Press Reporter’s Award, presented at the Awards Banquet.
As the Photographer, the participant(s) is expected to take photos at all meetings and events. They can submit them to the York 4-H newsletter to show what they have done and to 4-H Ontario if they would like. At the end of the year, each club Photographer has an opportunity to enter for the Photographer’s Award, presented at the Awards Banquet.
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For more information about 4-H and 4-H opportunities visit: www.4-HOntario.ca
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