Volunteer with 4-H

Volunteers Make a Difference in Our Programs!

Did you know that more than 50 adults volunteer with St. Lawrence County 4-H programs each year? Volunteering is a fun and rewarding way to share your experiences with others. Whether you enjoy birdwatching, cooking, gardening, or working with animals, 4-H offers a variety of exciting projects and activities for volunteers to get involved in.

Imagine the satisfaction of a young person learning a new skill or doing a job well. Now, imagine the personal fulfillment you’ll experience as you watch them grow. You can help young people build confidence and self-esteem—essential ingredients for happy, productive citizens.

Whether you want to be a club leader or help out with a short-term project, there’s a volunteer role for you in 4-H. Some volunteer roles involve direct interaction with youth, while others may not. Volunteers can participate in both long-term and short-term positions, such as:

• Leading a 4-H Club for several years
• Assisting with a special interest workshop
• Being a judge at events such as the 4-H Youth Fair
• Helping with an after-school program or a one-time event

In any volunteer role, our 4-H office provides training, resources, and support to ensure that your experience is both fulfilling and rewarding.

Volunteer Requirements:
All volunteers must complete the following:

• Volunteer application
• Code of conduct
• Interview process

Additionally, volunteers working directly with youth will be required to consent to a criminal background screening at Cooperative Extension's expense to ensure the safety of all involved.

If you're interested in volunteering, please complete the interest survey or contact Tamara Hill at tlh233@cornell.edu or 315-379-9192 ext. 261 to begin the screening and paperwork process.

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Types of 4-H Volunteer Opportunities:

1. 4-H Club Organizational Leader
   • A volunteer who works with a 4-H club to help members plan their annual club program, conduct club business, and enroll in 4-H projects. A minimum of five members and two volunteer leaders is required for a club. 4-H staff assist with the application, screening, orientation, and ongoing training.
2. 4-H Club Project Leader
   • Helps the Organizational Leader teach the educational component of the club program. Project leaders facilitate project lessons, assist with project record books, and help prepare for evaluation at the 4-H Youth Fair.
3. Short-Term Volunteer (Activity or Event)
   • Lead an activity at events such as Equine Clinics or the End of the Year Celebration. Share your skills with an existing club, assist at workshops, or serve as a chaperone or transportation provider for youth groups.
4. 4-H Committee Member
   • Serve as a member of long-term or special (temporary, ad hoc) committees. Committees are focused on administrative roles in the 4-H program and may involve less direct interaction with youth.
     Examples:
     • 4-H Program Committee
     • 4-H Consumer and Family Science
     • Livestock, Plant Science, and Public Presentations Program Development Committees
     • 4-H Youth Fair Board
     • Local town youth commissions
5. Youth Volunteer
   • For teen 4-H members interested in developing leadership skills. Opportunities include mentoring younger 4-H members, serving on 4-H committees, becoming Camp Counselor Leader in Training, or applying for internships. Developing leadership and fostering responsibility are key aspects of this position.

Last updated January 8, 2025