Volunteer: Make the Difference!

In 4-H, kids and adults spend time together, learning new skills, developing hidden talents, making new friends and having fun.

The goal of 4-H is to help kids develop as individuals and as responsible productive citizens in their communities. Adult volunteers who spend time with 4-H kids are key in this process. They form the foundation on which productive citizens are made.

Without volunteers, the 4-H youth development program would be hard to implement for Extension staff.

Here are a few reasons to consider becoming a 4-H volunteer today.

• Sharing your talents. You have a lot to give. After all, you have years of life experiences. Now's your chance to share your knowledge and talents with young people, our future leaders.
• Experiences you'll never forget. You'll be able to meet new people and travel to interesting places. 4-H volunteers have many opportunities to attend conferences, get training and learn new skills.
• Flexibility to fit your interests. Do you like birdwatching, cooking, gardening, visual arts, electricity, woodworking, computers, or working with animals? There are many interesting projects and fun things to do as part of 4-H. It's not just a program for farm kids. You can have fun with kids, and learn right along with them.
• Pride in learning. Imagine a young person's satisfaction at learning a new skill, at doing a job well. Imagine your own satisfaction at watching a young person blossom. You can help our young people as they gain self-esteem – an essential ingredient for happy productive citizens.

Being a 4-H volunteer has many rewards. Whether you want to be a club leader or work with kids on a short-term project, there's a role for you in 4-H.

* Adapted from "Discover the World Together" brochure.