It's been around for 123 years and its a staple at any county or local fair in Ohio and around the nation.
We're talking about 4-H.
And while the focus on 4-H for years has been local youth take part in farming and agriculture, it's grown into something much larger than that recently.

4-H is known for teaching kids ages 5-18 all about how to raise animals.

"They're learning a ton of responsibilities because they are keeping a living thing alive. They are in charge of feeding it, watering it, training it to make sure they are able to show it," said 4-H educator, Kristen Eisenhauer.

They also work on their own special projects.

"They learn a lot of leadership skills. They get to present their projects to a judge when it comes to judging. That shows them interviewing skills that they will use when they go to college or when they go out on a job. Also teamwork, they get to work together with other 4H'ers and adult advisors so there's a lot they are gaining skills in. also community service," said 4-H educator, Beth Smith.

You'll find all of the projects done by the 4H'ers at the jr. fair building at the Canfield fairgrounds. There's a lot more going on than just farm animals. There's 40 different clubs and all kinds of different projects.

"The 4 H's are head, hand, heart and health. A lot of our projects align with one of them or multiple of those," said Eisenhauer
When you talk with a 4H'er they are excited to speak about their experiences. Many stick with it for years and make long-last friendships.

Grace maltonic was last year's Jr. Fair Queen.

"I was the shy, quiet girl who sat in the back in meetings, I didn't want to talk to people. 4H helped me to grow and everything," said Maltonic.

With 40 different clubs in Mahoning county alone, kids can surely find something they like or want to learn more about. Landon Frank of Greenford, is interested in STEM.

"I've learned a lot about talking in front of people, making relationships with people. It's made me really understand how much I really want to be in a field like that. Engaging with people is something I never was big about until I joined 4H," said Frank.

But for many of the nearly one thousand kids who take part in Mahoning county alone, Agriculture is a favorite.

"It's one of the biggest industries in the world. It feeds America and the whole world. It helps the public understand we're here to serve a purpose," said Grace Ewing, a 12-year 4-H member.

If you have a child who is interested in 4-H just contact your county's OSU extension office.