ABOUT 4-H ADULT VOLUNTEER LEADERS
The educative quality of the 4-H experience of an individual member is dependent upon the "volunteer adult leader."
Each of these descriptive words is important!
- Since the leader is a VOLUNTEER, he or she is motivated by a sincere interest in young people and a desire to assist in their development.
- As an ADULT, the leader provides mature philosophy and judgement in counsel and relationships with members.
- As a LEADER, he or she functions as a combination teacher and counselor.
- The relationship between a member and his or her leader is a unique relationship based upon the voluntary commitment of both.
- Adult leaders serve as POSITIVE ROLE MODELS and are critical to the program success.
TYPES OF LEADERS
Volunteers are critical to the 4-H program as their diversity, individuality and concern for others allows them the ability to "Make The Best Better."
- Organizational or Administrative - give guidance and direction to club members and parents. Leaders of community or school clubs.
- Project - major responsibility is assisting 4-H members with the 4-H projects.
- Activity - help sponsor and participate in special activities and events on the local, county, and state levels. Demonstrations, judging, public speaking, recreation.
- Resource - meet with a group for a specific purpose for perhaps only one or two meetings during the year.
WHO ARE THEY:
Parents, relatives, your next door neighbor, church members teachers, business leaders. Everyone has something to offer to help.
WHAT ARE THE ROLES OF A LEADER:
- To give guidance and direction to club members and parents
- To provide guidance and direction for developing the club program
- To work with club officers and committees
- To develop and maintain community support
- To serve as a contact person for the community or Extension Office when requested
- To work with other leaders such as project and activity leaders
- Give overall direction to the County 4-H Program
