Pittsfield, PA - For generations, 4-H has been a cornerstone of the Warren County Fair, offering young participants the chance to showcase projects ranging from livestock and agriculture to science, crafts, and photography. This summer, the organization is hoping to draw in even more young agricultural enthusiasts — by waiving its membership fee for a limited time.


Dale McMillen, a lifelong 4-H supporter and current Warren County Fair Director, has seen the program evolve over the years. He first joined 4-H when he was just 10 years old.

“Since the age of ten, I have never not been involved in it,” McMillen said. “There have been a lot of changes, but like with any organization, you just change with it. The main thing is we keep our focus on the kids — on youth development.”

This year, to make it easier for new families to join, 4-H is offering free registration during the months of August and September — a move local leaders hope will remove barriers for first-time participants.

“Kids who come out and try 4-H usually have to register and do all that,” McMillen said. “But you can register in the months of August and September, and there is no fee.”

For some families, 4-H is all about staying local. Not every member competes statewide — many are simply proud to present their work at the Warren County Fair.

“It’s really nice to just be able to go to the fair and to raise the animals,” said Savea Lauffenburger, a 4-H member. “I mean, it is a commitment, but it’s a nice thing to do.”

“Our family is just into the 4-H and raising the market animals,” added her mother, Melissa Lauffenburger. “We don’t travel; we just come to the Warren County Fair.”

“We’ve all learned a lot from each other,” said Pam McMillen, 4-H leader. “It’s another great family — we have our church family, our 4-H family, and our own family. It’s really all about family down here.”

From sheep farming to homemade crafts, 4-H continues to be a vital part of the fair experience — and a place where young people grow not only in skill, but in confidence and community.

The membership fee waiver runs through the end of September. For more information on how to get involved, visit here.