Independent Members

Families and independent members may participate in planned learning that occurs independently of a formal group setting. This may be an individual, paired, or family learning effort. For many youths, their exposure to 4-H experiences and learning materials comes through activities conducted either within their family or an independent membership. While 4-H encourages participation in club settings to promote friendship and interaction with other youth and adults, for some youth, this is not always possible. Families and independent members are welcome to participate in the 4-H experience.

Youth ages 8-18, who do not wish to join a formal 4-H Club may still join 4-H as enrolled independent members. Enrolled independent members then have the opportunity to complete projects and participate in events that require 4-H enrollment. Please see statewide events and opportunities for a list of opportunities.

Membership Requirements

4-H independent membership is open to all youth age 8 (as of January 1) through 18 (as of January 1). 4-H membership is open to all youth without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, gender identity, sex, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, religion, political affiliation or socioeconomic backgrounds. To maintain 4-H membership, all youth must be enrolled in 4-H Online each year.

Awards & Recognition

Nebraska 4-H aims to offer awards and recognition for all of its youth participants regardless of the delivery mode they participate in. Independent 4-H members have the opportunity to apply for and receive recognition through the following awards and recognition programs:

• Diamond Clover
• Nebraska 4-H Gives Back
• Nebraska 4-H Foundation Scholarships
• National 4-H Congress
• National 4-H Conference
• National 4-H Youth in Action
• Competitive Awards (contests, static exhibits, live animal shows, etc.)