October 1st marked the beginning of the new program year for the Cattaraugus County 4-H Youth Development Program.
Over 350 youth from Cattaraugus County and beyond enrolled in the 4-H Program for the 2024-25 year, participating in events throughout the year and showcasing their skills at the 2025 Cattaraugus County Fair. From making Christmas ornaments and baking pies to selling an animal in the annual 4-H Meat Animal Sale, 4-H is a versatile program allowing youth to discover their passions. Although many people associate 4-H with exhibiting livestock, 4-H provides many more opportunities including leadership programs and networking for the future. This year, youth have had the opportunity to travel as far as Madison, Wisconsin and Louisville, Kentucky due to their involvement in the 4-H program.
4-H Members may join one of the many clubs throughout the county, based on their interests. Some clubs focus on specific animal science areas such as horses or market livestock while others focus on family and consumer science activities. Many members choose to join clubs, but joining a club is not required; another option includes becoming a “Lone Member” which allows youth to experience all the benefits and programming that 4-H offers without the commitment to club meetings and activities. 4-H strives to provide activities for youth ages 5-18 (as of January 1st, 2026).
Enrollment forms may be found on the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cattaraugus County website. There is a $10 enrollment fee per youth or a $25 fee for families with 3 or more youth. Returning 4-H members must enroll for the 2025-26 program year by December 15th. All new 4-H members must enroll by May 1st to be eligible to participate at the 2026 Cattaraugus County Fair. If you are interested in learning more about the Cattaraugus County 4-H Program, contact the 4-H office today by calling 716-699-2377 or emailing cattaraugus4h [at] cornell.edu.
