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Without the effort, expertise and passion of adult volunteers, 4‑H could not possibly provide positive youth programming for over seven million American youth each year!
4‑H adult volunteers directly influence the youth they work with by being their mentor, teacher, role model, advocate and cheerleader. Even if you do not have background with 4‑H, you can find a place in the 4‑H community to inspire and learn from youth.
The 4‑H year runs from September 1st to August 31st of the following calendar year. During that time, 4‑H adult volunteers can commit to long-term, or brief, positions.
Ocean County 4‑H Volunteer Opportunities
- Long Term Club Leader: This type of volunteer has the dedication to support club members throughout the 4-H year (September – August). Clubs meet once or more a month. Leaders work with club members to arrange learning opportunities (guest speakers, activities, trips, etc.) that falls into the club’s project area.
- Short Term Club Leader: This type of volunteer has the dedication to support club members through a Short Term Exploratory Program (S.T.E.P.), that takes place for a minimum of 12 hours over the course of a few weeks or a few months (Sept.-August). Leaders work with club members to arrange learning opportunities (guest speakers, activities, trips, etc.) that falls into the club’s project area.
- Judge: 4-H youth members regularly participate in show and competitions. Volunteer judges review their work and provide constructive criticism, rankings, and/or scores. These volunteers are skilled in the subject area they are judging, able to communicate kindly with youth, and are committed to the 4-H ideals. There is no maximum or minimum required time associated with this position.
- Adjunct Volunteer: If you have a particular interest or talent, perhaps related to your career or hobby, 4-H is a great place to share it with youth! Adjunct volunteers may present to an already established club, run a workshop/clinic/day camp, or simply serve as a source of information for club leaders and members. There is no maximum or minimum required time associated with this position. Some parents/guardians become Adjunct Volunteers to serve as chaperones! Whether it be for a 4-H trip or to attend a 4-H program, the role of this adult is to simply ensure there is the correct ratio of screened adult with 4-H youth. There is no maximum or minimum required time associated with this position.
If you or someone you know wants to be apart of the 4‑H community, please visit our website or contact the
Ocean County 4‑H Office.
Help us shape the next generation of leaders!