Factors that influence 4-H club enrollment and retention in Camden County, Georgia

Abstract

Camden County 4-H has experienced a decrease in membership of 4-H members after the fifth grade. This study consist of two parts: 1.) determining participation trends from an ex post facto study, and 2.) determining reasons for reenrolling in the 4-H program or leaving the 4-H program using a survey. Youth today have many different organizations and activities to choose from to occupy their interest; 4-H must strive to provide for the developmental needs and interest of these youth. To meet these needs leaders should ask youth want they want to learn, give them leadership roles, and provide hands-on less structured lessons. Leaders should continue to promote the core programs including camp, district, and state events; and take every opportunity to recognize and reward members. Promoting the program to the community and getting parental involvement was also found to have a positive effect on reenrollment of 4-H members.