The Maricopa County 4-H Teen Association is a youth leadership development opportunity for Maricopa County 4-H. The Maricopa County 4-H Teen Association provides Maricopa teen leaders with the opportunity to advocate for 4-H youth, represent Maricopa 4-H, and develop as leaders. The Maricopa County 4-H Teen Association will work together as a collaborative team to help lead county 4-H leadership initiatives. Additionally, each will provide mentorship and leadership specific to their areas of expertise.

• Contact Jenna at jsmennetti@arizona.edu to learn more.
• Direct questions to the Maricopa County 4-H Office at 602-827-8275.
   

Healthy Living Ambassadors (HLA) is a new program in Maricopa County that is open to all teens. It offers the opportunity to become leaders that promote healthy lifestyle choices and sustainability within their communities through hands-on projects and community service. Maricopa 4-H HLA program will kickoff with a FREE overnight leadership retreat hosted by Tucson Village Farm in Tucson, AZ on November 2nd, 2024. Please contact Maricopa 4-H Program Coordinator Alex at akolnacki@arizona.edu for any questions!

STEM stands for Science, Technology Engineering, and Math.  Maricopa County has many STEM opportunities. The primary objective of STEM projects is to gain proficiency in science, technology, engineering, and math through hands-on experiences, learn how to identify a problem and work to create innovative solutions, engage in design skills, planning/organizing, communication, problem solving, teamwork, marketable skills, and emphasize 4-H ethic of learning to learn., incorporate the scientific method in learning critical thinking skills., understand and use cutting-edge technology, and navigate through the design and fabrication process. To see a complete listing of projects across the state visit 4-H STEM YOUniveristy.

• Environmental Education
• Outdoor Education
• Technology and Engineering

Projects

• STEM Saturdays: Every month this class will meet to challenge youth with a different STEM related topic. Participants will have the opportunity to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills through the use of science, technology, engineering and math. STEM Saturdays are open to youth age 8-18, so invite your friends. You can participate in just one or even all the Saturdays offered. Location and time will vary.
• Underwater Robotics: Underwater robotics refers to the creation and operation of robotic systems designed for underwater exploration and tasks. These robots, also known as remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), are integral components of hands-on learning experiences. This program offers a captivating pathway for students to explore the principles of robotics and engineering in the context of marine exploration and technology.
• Lego Robotics: This process goes beyond just assembling bricks. As students bring their Lego creations to life, they will deepen their programming know-how, problem-solving abilities, and team collaboration. Learning will be divided into two groups of more experienced coders and beginners.
• Drones: Students will learn the rules and regulations for recreational drone operation. They will be guided on preparation for taking the TRUST certification exam, the official test needed to fly drones legally. Throughout their experience, youth will get to pilot drones and apply their new expertise with these exciting technologies.
• Rocketry: Unleash your creativity as we delve into designing and constructing rockets, all while pondering questions, like how to overcome the substantial challenges associated with interplanetary travel. Students will explore and apply science and mathematics ideas/tools, as well as their understanding of the principles governing motion, to craft a unique and specialized spacecraft.
• Cross Reality: Embark on a groundbreaking journey through our Cross-Reality project. This innovative program fuses virtual and hands-on learning, allowing you to construct and manage ideas from your laptop. . Cross-Reality revolutionizes the learning process. Immerse yourself in this blended model of imagination and action. Join us as we cultivate the next generation of engineers, and problem solvers building a brighter tomorrow!
• STEM and Ag Ambassadors: The 4-H STEM and Ag Ambassador Project in conjunction with the Chief Science Officer program empowers 6th-12th grade students to develop leadership abilities while making a difference in their communities through STEM or Ag education and outreach. As a STEM or Ag Ambassador, you will:
  • Attend virtual training workshops to build skills in areas like leadership, civic engagement, and STEM activities facilitation
  • Collaborate with teen leaders across Arizona counties and tribal nations
  • Plan and deliver STEM workshops for youth and community members in your county
  • Help foster passion for science, technology, engineering and math in your region!

Clubs

• Coyote 4-H
• Glendale 4-H
• Queen Creek 4-H

General Projects Committee

The General Projects Committee puts on educational and showmanship clinics throughout the year to get youth ready for General Project's Day at County Fair.  This committee urgently needs adult volunteers and youth member participation and meets, via zoom, on the fourth Wednesday each month at 6:00pm.

Contact Valerie Gabrielson at gabrielsonv@arizona.edu with questions about the program.
 

Open to youth age 15 and over. Applications are submitted in January. Counselors that are selected will help to plan Camp GRIT and then lead campers through a week of camp activities at James 4-H Camp on Mingus Mountain in June.

Learn more about Camp G.R.I.T.

Each County Committee offers college scholarships to graduating Seniors. Applications are due in March. The 4-H Foundation also offers many scholarships for any 4-Her past or present attending college. 

Learn more about available scholarships.