4H or other animal opportunities for 8 year old?

My 8 year old daughter loves animals and would love to volunteer with them in some capacity. I do know there's a Montclair 4H and did a little online research into it, but would love to hear anyone's recent experience. I'm worried 4H may be too much of a time commitment. Also, from what I read, at least when it comes to the pigs, they end up in the slaughterhouse. I don't think she'd be into that as a final outcome!

So am wondering if there's another program that involves feeding chickens or goats once a week, for instance. It would be great if there were some education involved as well as some hands-on experience. We live in Berkeley. Thanks for any ideas! my kid loves animals

4H is part of the UC Cooperative Extension and has a very good curriculum for their various projects. Project leaders are typically parents in Montclair 4H (though you don't have to be a leader to join). All leaders must go through a security and background check before they can become a project leader. In addition to animal projects, there are science, cooking-related and textile-related (knitting/sewing) projects, as well. The types of projects offered in any given year depends on what expertise an adult has and who has time to lead a project. Yes, in the Swine Project the pigs make a one-way trip to the Fair but you and your child do not have to be a part of this project. 4H also provides fabulous leadership opportunities that provide enrichment outside school. There's Presentation Day, when children make a short presentation on a topic that's typically related to their project (but isn't limited to that). In projects, the older kids typically either lead or co-lead projects along with the adults and act as mentors to the younger children in that project. Our daughter benefited from that mentoring and learned about giving back as she grew older. 4H teaches children more than about a specific animal or subject area, it teaches children what it means to be a responsible team player and good citizen.

Meetings are once a month at the Montclair Rec Center and they are very organized and well-run by the elected student officers. The adult leaders (Carla and Tina spend a lot of their time) meet w/ the officers a week before the monthly meeting to set the agenda and help ensure the organization runs smoothly. There is typically a community service project, as well, e.g. working at the Alameda County Food Bank, donating gently used warm jackets, etc. We became involved with 4H since our daughter was 10 (she is now 18) and found it a very rewarding experience. Peggy K T

Editor note: replies were also received for Volunteer Jobs Working with Animals

4H group for 13yo in Oakland or Alameda?

Hi, Wondering if there is a 4H group near Alameda. Either Oakland or Alameda. My 13 y/o daughter is interested in joining.