4-H is all about learning by doing, and our projects give youth the chance to turn their interests into skills that last a lifetime. Whether you’re into animals, cooking, technology, nature, or leadership, there’s a 4-H project for you.
In Gillespie County, we offer projects across the Texas 4-H “Big 5”!
Participants will learn basic cooking skills and nutritional information. This workshop will include learning about general skills in kitchen safety, garnishing techniques, function of ingredients and how to use a melon baller. We will also prepare foods to eat.
More Information about Food and Nutrition!
Participants will learn the skills needed to raise and show healthy animals. Activities in this project area include selecting and caring for livestock, feeding and nutrition, grooming and show preparation, recordkeeping, and learning about animal health. Members also practice showmanship techniques, study livestock evaluation, and explore career opportunities in animal science.
More Information about Livestock!
Do you love the great outdoors? If so, this project is for you! You’ll learn how to manage land, natural resources, and the environment. You can learn about your environment, and the responsibility you have for natural resources, and the connections between plants, animals, soil, and water. This is a great project for someone who wants to own a ranch or manage land that produces renewable goods and services for humans.
Participants will explore the exciting world of robotics and engineering. Activities in this project area include building and programming robots, learning how sensors and motors work, tackling design challenges, and applying problem-solving skills to real-world situations. Members also work as a team to prepare for competitions, practice presentation skills, and discover careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Participants will learn how to care for and train their canine companions. Activities in this project area include understanding dog breeds and characteristics, proper grooming and health care, nutrition, and responsible ownership. Members also practice obedience and showmanship skills, explore agility and performance events, and strengthen the bond between handler and dog through positive training techniques.
Participants will learn safe and responsible shooting skills while developing focus and discipline. The Gillespie County 4-H Shooting Sports program offers Archery in the fall, BB Gun in the winter, and Shotgun in the fall. Activities include practicing range safety, learning proper shooting techniques, improving accuracy through target practice, and understanding the equipment used in each discipline. Members also build sportsmanship, confidence, and teamwork while preparing for competitions.
Participants will learn how to care for and train their canine companions. Activities in this project area include understanding dog breeds and characteristics, proper grooming and health care, nutrition, and responsible ownership. Members also practice obedience and showmanship skills, explore agility and performance events, and strengthen the bond between handler and dog through positive training techniques.
Check out Entomology Judging!
Participants will learn sewing skills and explore the world of fashion and design. Activities in this project area include selecting fabrics, using sewing tools and machines, reading and following patterns, and creating garments or home décor items. Members also learn about clothing construction, fashion trends, textile science, and how to present their projects in contests and fashion shows.
Participants will build confidence and communication skills through speaking and presentations. Activities in this project area include learning how to research and organize a speech, practicing effective delivery, developing visual aids, and presenting to different audiences. Members can compete in public speaking contests, give educational presentations, and use their skills to lead meetings or advocate for causes they care about.
Participants will learn to capture moments and tell stories through photography. Activities in this project area include exploring camera settings and techniques, experimenting with lighting and composition, and developing an eye for detail. Members practice taking photos in various categories—such as people, animals, nature, and still life—and have opportunities to edit, exhibit, and enter their work in contests.