The University of Idaho Elmore County High Desert Hillbillies 4-H Club is a youth development organization based in Elmore County, Idaho. It operates as part of the broader 4-H program facilitated by the University of Idaho Extension in Elmore County, which supports a total of 16 distinct 4-H clubs serving approximately 180 youth members under the guidance of adult leaders. Each club offers a variety of projects ranging from livestock care to woodworking, designed to help members gain practical skills, develop leadership abilities, and engage actively in their communities.

Organization and Activities

The High Desert Hillbillies 4-H Club focuses on agricultural and animal husbandry projects, including sheep, goats, swine, and Cloverbud (younger member) activities, consistent with other clubs in the region. Like other Elmore County 4-H clubs, the High Desert Hillbillies participate in the annual Elmore County Fair held every July, which features competitions and presentations resulting from year-long projects. This fair is a key event for showcasing youth efforts and fostering community support[1][3].

4-H members, including those in the High Desert Hillbillies, enroll through the University of Idaho's 4-H registration system and are required to register annually to participate in projects and county events. The club emphasizes hands-on learning opportunities aimed at helping children and adolescents between the ages of eight and eighteen develop valuable life and leadership skills through real-world experiences, aligned with 4-H’s mission nationwide. Younger children aged five to seven may also participate in the Cloverbuds program, which offers a non-competitive introduction to 4-H activities[2].

Mission and Impact

The High Desert Hillbillies operate under the larger University of Idaho Extension 4-H Youth Development framework, which strives to create supportive environments that encourage youth to explore topics in agriculture, science, technology, and leadership. Through participation, members build competencies such as time management, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.

The club also benefits from volunteer adult leaders who provide guidance and mentorship, ensuring a positive and educational experience for all members. The University of Idaho Extension facilitates this by providing educational resources, training, and event coordination to all Elmore County 4-H clubs, including the High Desert Hillbillies[2][4].

Governance and Recognition

The University of Idaho Elmore County High Desert Hillbillies 4-H Club is recognized as a nonprofit youth organization operated under the auspices of the University of Idaho Extension. It carries the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 371637846 and aligns with the university’s goals of community education and youth empowerment.

In summary, the High Desert Hillbillies 4-H Club plays a vital role in Elmore County's 4-H community by fostering agricultural education, leadership development, and community engagement among its youth members, contributing to the longstanding 4-H tradition of preparing young people to become successful, responsible citizens[1][2][3].