In Austin County, the 4-H clubs’ monthly meetings are more than just gatherings; they are hubs of expansive learning, from agriculture to technology. The program’s diverse offerings ensure that whether through fashion showcases or photography contests, 4-H is a nurturing ground for tomorrow’s leaders to grow and excel.
Across Austin County, 4-H clubs meet every month, fostering a learning environment where youth explore a spectrum of subjects, including livestock, food, nutrition, clothing and textiles.
Kailyn Capps, who oversees 4-H and Youth Development, highlighted their offerings include focus groups such as the rifle club, a component of a comprehensive shooting sports program, complete with rifle, shotgun and archery activities, led by committed volunteers and organized separately from the regular club meetings.
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“Our offerings are diverse, encompassing everything that 4-H can provide. For instance, we have events akin to a fashion show and a talent showcase for musical instruments. Members can also give educational presentations in areas where they possess expertise,” Capps said. “Our livestock project group is dedicated to mentoring and leading novice families through their livestock projects. Other offerings include horticulture, where participants engage in competitions such as floral design and ‘mini-scapes’ — a miniature landscaping contest. We also have photography contests.”
Austin County 4-H hosts inclusive competitions that invite not only 4-H members but also Future Farmers of America and other youth organizations, promoting educational engagement across a broad spectrum of interests. The county’s diverse project areas offer signature annual events, such as the food challenge, where teams create and present a dish within 45 minutes, a competitive format inspired by the “Chopped” TV series.
“Throughout the year, we also offer various educational opportunities that align with the interests of our members. These include tours of local businesses or farmers’ markets, interactions with culinary professionals, and even workshops like a charcuterie and nutrition seminar,” Capps said. “These experiences are designed to equip members with knowledge and skills for personal growth and to enter competitions. Our program is multifaceted, aiming to provide enriching experiences in a breadth of interests.”
The integral leadership development within 4-H
There are many areas where 4-H excels, and their monthly community classes are just one example. These meetings offer seven distinct classes, each led by a body of officers under the guidance of an adult volunteer. Capps highlighted how club managers and officers undergo training where they learn the essentials of parliamentary procedure and leadership.
“These young individuals do an exceptional job of leading their respective classes. Furthermore, we have what is known as the county council, which meets bi-monthly. Membership to the Council is competitive, requiring an application, a public speech, an election by peers, and an interview process,” Capps said. “These council members play a pivotal role in decision-making for the Austin County 4-H programs, contributing ideas and steering the direction of our initiatives.
The 4-H program cultivates leadership skills in every participant, offering roles suited to every interest. Participants who seize these opportunities to serve as officers or in other key roles are building a foundation of invaluable skills.
Despite these experiences not directly related to their eventual careers, the skills they learn — including communication, leadership, strategic planning and effective decision-making — will prove invaluable.
“I have immense faith in our 4-H members — whom I affectionately regard as my children — and believe their active engagement in the program and their community equips them with the skills to succeed in any path they choose,” Capps said. “They learn to communicate effectively, lead confidently and manage projects efficiently, preparing them for a bright future, regardless of the projects they undertake or the career path they follow.”
The journey of a 4-H member
The 4-H program in Austin County opens its doors early to children, calling those in kindergarten through second grade to join Clover Kids. Although not full-fledged members, Clover Kids have ample opportunities to engage in 4-H-oriented activities, such as the bucket calf program at the county fair, which hopefully ignites their interest in the full program starting in third grade and extending through their senior year of high school.
“Clover Kids are welcome to join in activities not involving livestock, like the food show contest. They receive judging and feedback, which sharpens their competitive edge for when they reach third grade”, Capps explained. “They’re also invited to engage in photography and fashion show activities. From third to eighth grade, they can delve into any event they’re interested in.”
Leadership in Austin County 4-H projects is as varied as the projects themselves. For some, it’s a family affair where the projects are directed by the families involved, providing their children access to online learning modules and speaker sessions. Meanwhile, other projects thrive under the stewardship of 4-H volunteers who operate the online program, nurturing the leadership potential in youngsters who stand out for their proficiency and knowledge.
“We encourage these knowledgeable members to conduct educational meetings and assist other families, enhancing their chances for success,” Capps said. 4-H educational events are also volunteer-led.
For example, Cupps said that if someone leading a pig-focused meeting wants additional expertise on feeding and nutrition, they might invite a sales representative or a nutrition expert to speak. All instructors in the shooting sports programs are certified through 4-H, receiving training specific to their discipline. These volunteers lead safety courses and organize regular practice sessions.
“Volunteers are the backbone of 4-H, leading our monthly meetings and various project areas. We have teams for livestock judging, horse judging and a quiz bowl, all sustained by volunteer efforts. Although I teach subjects I am passionate about, it’s challenging to be an expert in all areas. That’s why our adult volunteers are invaluable, offering expertise and knowledge beyond my capacity.”
4-H Clubs in Austin County
Bellville 4-H
- First Baptist Church Youth Building-Bellville: 504 E. Strauss St., Bellville, 6:30 p.m.
- Meeting Day: 2nd Tuesday of each month
- Club Manager: Brittney Schroeder, [email protected]
Frydek 4-H
- St. Mary's Catholic Church Hall-Frydek: 10471 Grotto Road Sealy
- Meeting Day: 3rd Tuesday of each month @ 7 p.m.
- Club Managers: Sarah Weber, [email protected]
Millheim 4-H
- Millheim Hall 4-H Building: 4460 FM 949, Sealy
- Meeting Day: 2nd Tuesday of each month @ 6:30 p.m.
- Club Managers: Chad & Tracie Eckelberg, [email protected] or [email protected]
Stars and Stripes 4-H
- St. John Lutheran Church Faith Center: 520 N. Holland St, Bellville
- Meeting Day: 2nd Sunday of each month @ 5:00 p.m.
- Club Managers: Lanthia Lischka, [email protected], 979-227-3123; or Kelly Schumann, [email protected]
Wallis 4-H
- Wallis Community Building, Room 14: 6810 Guyler Rd, Wallis
- Meeting Day: 2nd Sunday of each month @ 5:00 p.m.
- Club Manager: Kim Vykukal, [email protected], 979- 877-9032
Welcome 4-H
- Bleiblerville Volunteer Fire Department: 3342 FM 2502, Bleiblerville
- Meeting Day: 2nd Monday of each month @ 6:30 p.m.
- Club Manager: Cassie Malinowski, [email protected], 936-438-6543
West End 4-H
- Industry Methodist Church: 1914 Main St., Industry
- Meeting Day: 3rd Sunday of each month @ 5:30 p.m.
- Club Manager: Erika Guerrero, [email protected], 979-830-5687
Holly Galvan-Posey is a freelance writer who welcomes new writing opportunities from businesses, organizations and nonprofits. Holly enjoys time with her children and writing her blog, hollyinhouston.com.
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