4-H Adult Roles
Volunteers, parents, and other adults are a valued and essential part of the 4-H program and have a profound impact on the life trajectory of 4-H members. Adult 4-H volunteers are appointed by the county 4-H office after completing the necessary volunteer application steps (Enrollment Process). Volunteers serve in a variety of roles in a 4-H club:
- 4-H Community Club Leader - Provides administrative support for the 4-H clubs. See Sample_Adult_Volunteer_Position_Description-Organizational_Unit_Volunteer (Club Leader) position description.
- Project or program volunteers - Have expertise in particular areas which they teach to participants, parents/guardians, or special interest groups. See Sample_Adult_Volunteer_Position_Description-Project_Adult_Volunteer position description.
- Activity or event volunteers - Provide leadership within a specific, short-term project or activity. These activity volunteers work with 4-H members to make preparations for the activity, obtain relevant literature and distribute it to adult and youth participants, and coordinate the activity or community event. See Sample_Adult_Volunteer_Position_Description-Activity_or_Event_Adult_Volunteer position description.
- Resource and key volunteers - Have expertise in club organization, planning and conducting activities, or specialized subjects relating to projects. See Sample_Adult_Volunteer_Position_Description-Resource_Key_Adult_Volunteer position description.
- Other adult volunteers - Help with transportation, management, or recruitment. They may also serve as elected or appointed officers or committee members for the county council.
Parents and adults helping in the 4-H Youth Development Program are encouraged to be respectful of youth and adult leaders. Although the club's youth members should make the club's decisions, adult leaders should serve as advisors, project leaders, resource providers, and youth coaches. Parents are encouraged to attend meetings and participate in club activities and events. Adults should also support their child’s efforts by providing resources and supplies for projects, encouraging youth leadership, and, if necessary, facilitating the planning process. Read more in the Adult Guidelines.
