September 3, 2002

The year 2002 marks the centennial of the 4-H program. Formed in Springfield, Ohio, in 1902, as a boy's corn club, it is now a national citizenship and leadership development program that is found in every county in the United States.

The program has expanded from a purely agricultural organization to include programs in the arts, science and technology, as well as on gardening and environmental education. It is staffed by a network of volunteer leaders. The four H's stand for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health.

Two birthday celebrations are being planned during September and October at UConn, where the state program has its headquarters. All 4-H alumni and current participants are invited to attend these events. The first will be held on Sunday, Sept. 29, during the Cornucopia Fest at the Storrs campus. The second will take place in Bloomfield, Conn., at the 4-H Center at Auer Farm Fall Festival on Oct. 20.

A publication celebrating the national centennial while documenting Connecticut's 4-H history is also in the works. If you currently are or were a 4-H member or volunteer in any state, the 4-H Program would like to hear from you. Memories and photographs are being collected for inclusion in the history and for placement on the University of Connecticut College of Agriculture

and Natural Resources 4-H youth development website. To contribute to the collection, please contact Nancy Wilhelm at nancy.wilhelm@uconn.edu or 1.888.FOUR-H.CT.