Why Should You Participate in 4-H Volunteer Development?
Winning coaches do not just scout their opponents, but must also continually sharpen their coaching skills to stay on top of the game. Great coaches do not assume they know everything and do not take for granted that the rules have not changed.
We encourage you to join the ranks of great coaches by committing to:
- Seek volunteer roles that are mutually beneficial to you and the 4-H organization;
- Take on a new volunteer role to help fill a gap, offer a new program or expand the 4-H program;
- Participate in volunteer development trainings to enhance your skills and knowledge to stay current with 4-H guidelines and positive youth development outcomes; and
- Encourage others, adults and teens, to become part of the 4-H Volunteer Team!
How Can You Sharpen Your Volunteer Skills?
Utilize the Ohio 4-H Advisor Handbook: Mark this website as a favorite for easy access to the most current information to help you be a successful 4-H volunteer. Share the link with other 4-H club advisors and county 4-H volunteers.
Stay on top of the 4-H game by improving your coaching skills.
Participate in County Volunteer Training Programs: County Extension Educators and teams provide on-going volunteer development opportunities through club advisor updates, workshops, clinics and meetings. Broad topics, like "Making Club Meetings FUN", to a current youth issue, "Sportsmanship", may be chosen as the focus. Check with your County Extension Educator for upcoming 4-H volunteer development opportunities and required club advisor training expectations.
Read the County 4-H Volunteer or Family Newsletter(s) and/or Visit the County 4-H Website: Stay current and up-to-date with the latest 4-H rules and guidelines. Learn volunteer management tips. Access experiences for club members and yourself. Discover new ways to "Make the Best Better".
Join 4-H Volunteers Across Ohio at the Ohio 4-H Volunteer Conference: Mark your calendars for the 2nd Saturday in March. Choose from more than 100 educational, hands-on workshops presented in five concurrent sessions. Do not forget to check the Ohio 4-H Website for registration materials, fees and details.
Become A Master/Certified Volunteer: Some 4-H projects require specialized training and certification. After becoming a 4-H volunteer, you may choose to become a master/certified volunteer in one of these areas:
Attend North Central Regional 4-H Volunteer Forum: Learn with and from volunteers in twelve states and the providence of Manitoba. Held over a weekend in mid October, the forum features 75 workshops and is a great place to network, share and exchange the best 4-H has to offer.
Teach at a Regional or State 4-H Conference: Submit a proposal to teach a session or workshop at the Ohio 4-H Volunteer or Teen Conferences, North Central Regional 4-H Volunteer Forum, or regional 4-H programs across Ohio. Contact your County Extension Educator to express your interest.
Serve on a Regional or State Committee: Share your expertise with others by serving on camp boards, state project committees and Ohio 4-H advisory and support committees. Ask your County Educator for the application process for state committees.
