Extension Leadership

The Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service is dependent upon the broad-based participation of local citizens. That involvement is accomplished through the Extension advisory council system. The Extension Council is an organized body of volunteer leaders that counsels with Extension agents in the identification of local problems and issues, assists in program implementation, participates in determining program success, and communicates program accomplishments and funding needs to decision makers.

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!

1. 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.
2. As an ADULT, the leader provides mature philosophy and judgment in counsel and relationships with members.
3. As a LEADER, he or she functions as a combination teacher and counselor.
4. The relationship between a member and his or her leader is a unique relationship based upon the voluntary commitment of both.
5. 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."

1. Organizational or Administrative - give guidance and direction to club members and parents. Leaders of community or school clubs.
2. Project - major responsibility is assisting 4-H members with the 4-H projects.
3. Activity - help sponsor and participate in special activities and events on the local, county, and state levels. Demonstrations, judging, public speaking, recreation.
4. 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:

1. To give guidance and direction to club members and parents
2. To provide guidance and direction for developing the club program
3. To work with club officers and committees
4. To develop and maintain community support
5. To serve as a contact person for the community or Extension Office when requested
6. To work with other leaders such as project and activity leaders
7. Give overall direction to the County 4-H Program

4-H Volunteer Web Site