4-H Volunteer Training Series (VTS)

Written by Keith G. Diem and Sarah Hensley. Revised by Candi Dierenfield, Shreemoyee Ghosh, Jessica Emerson, Paula Davis, Nicole Crawson, Bailea Scarborough, and David Hafner.

This information sheet is the introduction to the 4-H Volunteer Training Series (VTS). The series contains a wealth of information, from how to start a club, to planning field trips, to how to work with youth. This part was originally published in July 2014 and then revised in July 2018. It was updated in the summer of 2023 and is now revised in September 2024.

Keith G. Diem, Candi Dierenfield, Karen Henry, Shreemoyee Ghosh, Melinda Souers, Abbey L. Tharpe, Claire Davis, yPaula Davis

Why does a 4-H club (for youth ages 8–18) need bylaws? It is for the same reason our country needs a constitution! Fair and written rules protect the rights of all members. The following is a suggested format for 4-H bylaws, which may be adapted to meet local conditions.

Keith G. Diem, Joy Jordan, Dale Pracht, Judy Butterfield, Candi Dierenfield, Nicole Crawson, Jessica Emerson, Shreemoyee Ghosh, David Hafner, Bailea Scarbrough, Paula Davis, Melinda Souers, yDallas Meringolo
Otros contactos: Sarah Hensley

This is one part of the 4-H Volunteer Training series. It was originally written in 2005, adapted in 2014, and updated in 2023.

Keith G. Diem, Karen Henry, Claire Davis, yCandi Dierenfield
Otros contactos: Sarah Hensley

4-H learning methods and curriculum materials are well-suited to small groups of youth in various settings, including clubs, camps, and schools. Using a blend of creative teaching methods is essential for getting the attention of youth. As a group leader, the adult helps guide youth in a process of doing, sharing, processing, and applying their knowledge in new situations.

Keith G. Diem, Karen Henry, Claire Davis, Heather Kent, Melinda Souers, Paula Davis, yCandi Dierenfield

 Field trips can be great experiences for youth to learn project content and life skills. Field trips also contribute to the experiential learning philosophy of 4-H. This publication includes some suggestions to make field trips educational, safe, and fun.

Keith G. Diem

The UF/IFAS Extension 4-H Youth Development Program is committed to the safety and well-being of its youth as well as the volunteers who help deliver 4-H programs under the supervision of 4-H faculty and staff. All things in life involve some sort of risk. This is especially true when working with youth, but there are many ways that volunteers can minimize this risk and lead safe 4-H activities. Proper planning and common sense certainly go a long way. Although not to be considered legal advice, here are some facts and issues to know and keep in mind while serving as a 4-H volunteer.

Chris DeCubellis

A quality 4-H club meeting consists of three main parts: (1) the business meeting, (2) an educational component, and (3) a recreational component. This 4-page fact sheet focuses on running a smooth 4-H business meeting.

Keith G. Diem, Marilyn N. Norman, and Joy C. Jordan. Revised by Jessica Emerson, Candi Dierenfield, Shreemoyee Ghosh, David Hafner, Amber Norris, Melinda Souers, Paula Davis, and Heather Kent

This is one part of the 4-H Volunteer Training series. It was originally published in 2005 and revised in 2012. It was updated in the summer of 2023 and is now published in 2024.

Originally written by Georgene Bender. Revised by Geralyn Sachs, Sarah Hensley, Andrew Toelle, Kelsey Cook, Marnie Ward, Shayla Reighter, Dallas Meringolo, Courtney Quirie and Christopher Decubellis.

Developing a sense of belonging is one of the Essential Elements of a positive youth development experience. Creating an inclusive environment in your 4-H club programs and activities can help you achieve this goal. Providing many forms of recognition for all, not just for those who excel in competition with other youth, supports this sense of belonging.