More than 120,000 youth in Iowa found fun, friends and learning in 4-H last year. As families look for high quality, youth-tested activities for their children, they can be certain that 4-H is readily available close to home through the county extension office of Iowa State University, said Joe Kurth, director of 4-H Youth Development for ISU Extension.

"We have room for more youth and welcome all youth in kindergarten through 12th grade. We encourage families to give 4-H to their children in 1999 so youth develop their potential throughout their lives," Kurth said.

When youth take part in 4-H, they find the structure that brings children together with people they can count on. Friendships develop, and fun and learning occur. "We know that children need at least one caring adult beyond the family; 4-H leaders are one source of that support," said Kurth. "Children are curious, and they develop their abilities as they try new hands-on 4-H activities while having wholesome fun with friends.

"Involvement in 4-H Youth Development programs provides youth with the essential set of life skills they need to succeed as adults and become productive and contributing members of their families and communities," Kurth said.

4-H youth participate in local 4-H clubs, special interest programs, 4-H camps and school enrichment programs. Thirty percent of Iowa's 4-H members come from cities with more than 50,000 population.

Every county ISU Extension office offers 4-H Youth Development programs. 4-H education is based on research conducted by land grant universities. Call the county office of ISU Extension for more information on joining 4-H or becoming a 4-H volunteer.