Volunteers
4-H Youth Development volunteers are valued partners in working with youth!
- Lead workshops to share knowledge with young people.
- Chaperone field trips and leadership conferences.
- Work in partnership (adults and youth) to lead 4-H clubs, activities and events.
- Help plan and conduct events.
- Recruit other volunteers.
- Develop and evaluate 4-H Youth Development programs.
- Contribute through promoting and supporting 4-H.
Volunteering is a privilege. All that's needed is a desire to provide quality educational programs and experiences with youth. Previous 4-H Youth Development experience is not necessary. For more information, contact the 4-H Youth Development faculty member at your UA Cooperative Extension County Office.
Application and Certification
All 4-H Youth Development Volunteers working with youth are required to complete the Arizona 4-H Youth Certification Process which includes:
Leader Roles
In 4-H, most volunteers lead projects for a local year-round club or short-term 4-H group. But there are many ways that volunteers get involved. Youth and adults may serve as volunteers leaders. Some volunteers serve as resource leaders. Check with your local county extension office about opportunities.
Volunteer Benefits
Congratulations! Once certified as an Arizona 4-H Youth Development Volunteer Leader, there are some terrific benefits!!
There's the opportunity for growth through training at the local, state and national levels. But, that's just part of the package. You'll grow, as you work in partnerships with youth, making a difference in their lives and in your community. You'll grow personally with confidence in your skills. And, you'll grow a number of lasting friendship with both youth and adults.
To ease your financial burden, your out-of-pocket and mileage expenses for 4-H business may be deductible from your income tax. You're also covered by the University of Arizona's risk management policies for liability and medical insurance as you conduct your volunteer responsibilities.
- Leader's Resource Toolkit
To manage a 4-H club or group requires tools. Here are some resources to help volunteer leaders.
Basics for New Leaders
Arizona 4-H Officer Materials
Ohio 4-H Club Officer Materials
How to Manage a Club
Conducting Meetings
How to Give Public Presentations
- Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
What requirements must I complete to become a
4-H volunteer?
To become an Arizona 4-H Youth Development certified volunteer, the following must be completed:
- an application form
- provide five references though only three are required to complete your application
- view the Youth Protection video or the CD-ROM (face to face, on-line, etc.)
- view the University of Idaho's DVD "Reporting Child Abuse
- participate in an interview either face to face or by phone
- sign the Behavioral Guidelines
What do I need to get started as a volunteer?
Who will help me?
The faculty and staff of your UA Cooperative Extension County Office. You will want to meet the extension agent(s) responsible for 4-H Youth Development and the support staff; such as secretaries, instructional specialists, or program assistants. Other volunteer leaders are also exceedingly helpful. You can also contact the State 4-H office for assistance.
Where can I get information about projects?
Check out the publication catalog to find out what curriculum or training materials are available by checking out the website: http://pubs1.cals.arizona.edu/4hsales/ or the 4-H website: http://cals.arizona.edu/4-h/project/
How much will it cost me to be a volunteer leader?
At present, there is no charge to becoming a volunteer leader. You will probably have out of pocket expenses. The actual dollar amount will vary depending upon the project(s) you are serving as a leader. Many of these expenses are deductible on your income taxes as a donation. If you keep track of your travel or mileage, you may deduct that expense as well as out-of-pocket expenses are considered deductible when they are paid in connection with services to a 4-H organization. Time and service however are not deductible. Generally, amounts spent for fees, materials, awards, traveling expenses (including meals, lodging, and cost of transportation) are deductible when not reimbursed.
How do I handle expenses for the members?
There are a couple of ways to handle expenses. One way would be to ask each 4-H member to provide funds to offset costs. Another way would be to have 4-H members conduct a fundraiser. You'll need to contact your UA Cooperative Extension County Office when conducting fundraisers to ensure that appropriate guidelines are followed.
How much time is involved in being a leader?
The amount of time varies according to the project(s) you are serving as a leader for. You can expect to spend an average of 1 to 2 hours per week per project meeting and on meeting preparation.
What is expected of me?
In addition to becoming a certified volunteer leader, the Behavioral Guidelines are to be signed. It is expected that you will provide a safe learning environment for the youth and meet on a frequent basis to provide adequate skill development, as well as being an appropriate role model. It is expected that you will become familiar with the subject matter. In addition, the county may have specific membership requirements for youth for the fair and other activities.
Do I need insurance?
All authorized volunteers are covered by University of Arizona liability insurance when conducting their duties as a volunteer leader. University of Arizona liability insurance only covers negligent acts, not accidents. You will want to re-examine your property owners insurance policy for specific coverage if meetings are held at your property. Accident insurance is recommended for all 4-H clubs. Check with the UA Cooperative Extension County Office for county policy information.
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