WARSAW — The Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Office hosts it’s third annual 4-H Open House, Jan 11.

Youths in grades K-12 and their families will have the chance to explore the many opportunities offered by the Kosciusko County 4-H Program at the third annual 4-H Open House January 11. The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Office, 202 W. Main St, Warsaw, said a news release from the Purdue Extension Kosciusko County Office.

Adult volunteers and teen leaders will welcome newcomers to the 4-H community and introduce families to over 60 learning experiences available through Kosciusko County 4-H. Experiences include camps, trips and community service opportunities. Attendees will get hands-on experience with computer science, electricity, engineering and animal science activities, and leave with new insight to all that is available for youth development in 4-H.

“We don’t want 4-H to be a sink or swim experience,” said Youth Development Educator Mindy Wise. “This Open House is designed to introduce you to our projects and caring volunteers so your family can be set up for success when you enroll in 4-H. “

After the event, she said, “if you choose to enroll, we will pair you with a youth or adult mentor who will help guide you through each step of your first year in 4-H.”

The Kosciusko County 4-H program hosts nearly 800 members grades K-12 in 20 clubs in Kosciusko County. Members explore study topics and gain life skills in the categories of animal science, communication and expressive arts, crafts, engineering and technological science, fashion and design, foods, healthy living, leadership and citizenship, and plant and environmental science. 4-H membership offers youth the chance to participate in camps, educational workshops, state and national trips, Career Development Events and competitions, and scholarships.

The Kosciusko County 4-H Program helps future generations explore career options and shapes young people into not only positive, active citizens, but also leaders. During the 2018-2019 Program year, members from all over the county have explored new opportunities for practical hands-on learning.  Youth from the Enchanted Hills community competed in a team food preparation challenge in Indianapolis, a team of teens worked with community partners to design and build their own landscape project, and young people of all ages traveled outside of their community club to attend 4-H Camp and explore careers at Purdue University.

“4-H has a lot to offer and we know it can be overwhelming,” Wise said. “We are poised to help guide your family to a 4-H fit that works for you. 4-H is not just for farm kids or families with interest in livestock. We hope that you will join us at the Open House so we can find the program that meets your personal development goals.”

Enrollment is currently open at in.4HOnline.com and is due Jan. 15. Contact the Kosciusko County Purdue Extension Office at (574) 372-2340, 202 W. Main St. Warsaw, for more information about the open house or 4-H enrollment, said the news release.