Shared by Jacque Fontenot

As the school year kicks off, Red River Parish 4-H is excited to welcome new and returning members to a program rooted in tradition, growth, and opportunity. Enrollment for the 2025–2026 4-H year is now open, and students in grades 1–12 can enroll at https://v2.4honline.com.

4-H is more than just agriculture—it’s about leadership, citizenship, and hands-on learning. Whether your child is interested in livestock, STEM, cooking, or community service, 4-H offers a wide range of projects and activities to match their interests and spark new ones.

There are 4-H clubs meeting monthly at every school in Red River Parish, as well as an at-large club for homeschool students. In addition to school clubs, Red River 4-H offers the following project clubs: Shooting Sports, Livestock, Chefs, STEM, Explorers, Junior Leaders

This year, Red River 4-H will also focus on service for our First Responders. Students donate items each month during club meetings.

The 4-H program also teaches gardening/nutrition classes to all 4th graders in the parish, helping students learn about healthy eating and where their food comes from.

Why Join 4-H?

• Leadership Development: Members learn public speaking, teamwork, and decision-making through club meetings and officer roles.
• Community Engagement: Youth participate in service projects that make a real impact in their schools and neighborhoods.
• Skill Building: From sewing to robotics, 4-H teaches practical life skills that last a lifetime.
• Fun & Friendship: Camps, contests, and field trips create lasting memories and friendships across the parish and state.

How the Community Can Help Here are several ways you can make a meaningful impact:

• Sponsor a child’s enrollment fee
• Volunteer to help with gardening classes at Red River Elementary School (RRES)
• Volunteer to be a one-time guest chef at the Chef’s club meetings
• Help sponsor a Chef’s club meeting
• Help sponsor a student’s 4-H event, overnight camp fees
• Help sponsor day trips for the Explorer’s club
• Help sponsor Achievement Day in March 2026
• Serve as a guest speaker in areas like agriculture, nutrition, leadership, or trades
• Provide snacks or refreshments for club meetings and workshops
• Offer your business or organization as a site for service projects or educational tours

Parents and guardians are also encouraged to get involved as volunteers, helping to guide and support youth in their 4-H journey.

This year’s theme, “Our Roots Are in Agriculture,” reminds us of the values that ground us—hard work, stewardship, and community. Whether your child is planting their first seed or giving their first speech, 4-H is where growth begins.

For more information, contact the Red River Parish 4-H Office at (318) 932-4342 or email jfontenot@agcenter.lsu.edu.