Another big year for 4-H is under way in Effingham County.

Georgia 4-H offers leadership development through programs during the school day for its Cloverleafs (fifth- and sixth-graders). The resources shared with students help bring relevance and “real-life” learning to state and national standards.

Recently, the Junior and Senior 4-H program kicked off with an “Italian supper” at the Effingham County Extension office in Springfield. The evening allowed 4-H’ers to become reacquainted with old friendships and make new ones as well.

The Junior and Senior program is slightly different in that their meetings are held outside of the school and may vary in locations. However, the goal and results of the 4-H program remain the same.

The 4-H study of Positive Youth Development found that students involved in 4-H are reported to have better grades, higher levels of academic competence and an elevated engagement at school, according to the organization. As early as the fifth grade, 4-H youth become involved as active and engaged citizens and leaders in their local clubs and communities.

The 4-H program offers home-school options as well.

For more information about 4-H, contact the Effingham County Extension office at 754-8040.