4-H enrollment wrapping up Dec. 31

Open enrollment for 4-H, one of the largest youth organizations, is wrapping up Dec. 31 for local youth interested in re-enrolling or joining Vernon County 4-H.

"Through 4-H's educational mission, youth learn by doing," said Amanda Davis, 4-H youth educator.

"While 4-H is a network of families that grows great kids, it is more than that. 4-H helps youth to learn life skills and to reach their full potential in becoming engaged adults who make valuable social and economic contributions in their communities."

In Vernon County, youth have access to 18 active clubs to join and a diverse range of projects, events and activities in which they may participate in, said Davis.

"Growing future leaders, research shows that 4-H youth excel beyond their peers. 4-H'ers are:

* Four times more likely to make contributions to their communities (grades 7-12);

* Two times more likely to be civically active (Ggrades 8-12);

* Two times more likely to make healthier choices (grade 7);

* Two times more likely to participate in science, engineering and computer technology programs during out-of-school time (grades 10 -- 12); and

* 4-H girls are two times more likely (grade 10) and nearly three times more likely (grade 12) to take part in science programs compared to girls in other out-of-school time activities.

Families re-enrolling need to do so through their mo.4honline.com account. Those interested in joining 4-H may call the University of Missouri Extension -- Vernon County Office at 448-2560, or stop by the office located inside the Vernon County Courthouse at 100 W. Cherry St., Nevada.