Horse Clubs

What is the Lancaster County 4-H Horse Program?

Through 4-H horse projects, club members learn leadership, responsibility, sportsmanship, cooperation, and other important life skills. Lancaster County has several horse and pony clubs located throughout the county.

Who Can Join a 4-H Club?

All youth ages 8-18 by January 1 of the current year can join 4-H. Parents are encouraged to attend and help at club functions. Parents may also become a screened volunteer to help in planning and organizing activities..

Youth ages 5-7 participate in the Cloverbuds program. The Cloverbuds program offers youth an opportunity for educational and social experiences that are targeted for their age and interests.

How Do 4-H Clubs Function and What Activities Do They Offer?

Each club has a monthly meeting. Many clubs also offer another activity in each month such as fieldtrips, clinics, shows, or community service projects. Every year club officers are elected by the 4-H members. The elected officers, along with the leaders, run each club meeting. A business meeting is held to discuss upcoming club activities or responsibilities. Most clubs then offer an educational program following the business meeting. Each club has requirements members must fulfill including community service projects, fundraisers, and club activities to enhance their horse knowledge.

Are There Other 4-H Horse Opportunities?

Other horse opportunities include horse bowl, hippology, and horse judging contests. We also offer horse production clinics for young horses, ages weanling to five-year olds. We offer opportunities to compete in competitive trail-riding, driving, Western, English, and Saddle Seat styles of riding.

Our county horse banquet, held in January, recognizes club members and leaders for their accomplishments inside and outside the show ring.

Once you become a 4-H horse club member you will have many opportunities to meet new people, and have many rewarding experiences. All 4-H members are invited to participate in our 4-H county and regional retreats, camps, leadership conferences, socials, and more.

What is the Horse Cloverbuds Program?

This educational program is for 4-H age 5 to 7 year olds (as of January 1st) and will focus on participation and cooperative learning in informal settings.

The mission is to provide safe, fun, hands-on, developmentally appropriate learning opportunities for youth 4-H ages 5 to 7 years using horses.

How Do I Join a 4-H Horse Club?

Find a club that meets close to where you live or best suits your needs. Call the 4-H office for leader contacts of the club. You must meet the requirements listed under "Who Can Join a 4-H Club?" to be a 4-H member. Enrollment paperwork for you and your horse must be submitted to club leaders and the 4-H office. Most clubs start their new year in January or February. Member registration closes on May 1st of each year, so plan ahead. Below is a list of Lancaster County 4-H Horse Clubs with the locations they serve. We are sure you will find a club near you!