How Can Adults Get Involved in 4-H?

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 judgment 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 - give guidance and direction to club members and parents. Leaders of community or school clubs that meet on a regular schedule.
  • Project - major responsibility is assisting 4-H members with the 4-H projects. These leaders usually share a skill or talent, in several sessions, in a short period of time.
  • Activity - help sponsor and participate in special activities and events on the local, county, and state levels. Demonstrations, judging, public speaking, recreation, 4-H camp.
  • 4-H Council Members - The Jefferson County 4-H Council, Inc. meets five times a year to plan, support and evaluate the local 4-H program. They also recruit, train and recognize 4-H volunteers and secure financial support for the program.
  • Other Involvement - 
    • staff a Reality Store booth
    • serve as a judge at contests or events
    • be a guest speaker for a program
    • provide transportation and/or refreshments for an event
    • public relations opportunities
    • chaperone events
    • work at a fund raising event
    • assist with activities

Who Are They?
Parents, relatives, your next door neighbor, church members, teacher, 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

To become an ADULT VOLUNTEER LEADER, please contact the 4-H/Youth Development Extension Agent for your zone or call 569-2344.. All adult leaders complete a volunteer application, interview with a 4-H representative, attend training and commit to uphold 4-H standards.