In North Carolina, more than 21,000 volunteers help deliver the 4-H Youth Development Program to youth.

The program gives volunteers the opportunity to serve based upon their interests, skills and time. This, coupled with the needs and interests of youth in the local community, makes a perfect match for fostering a positive relationship among youth and adults.

4-H Volunteers play a role in the ongoing growth and development of the 4-H Youth Development Program. They build a special relationship with youth, guiding project learning experiences and offering youth with opportunities to learn and serve their community.

Volunteers also serve in a coaching and mentor role for youth, helping build confidence among youth and foster positive youth development. 4-H volunteers help youth achieve their personal goals and motivate them to continue participating in and learning from the various opportunities provided through the program.

The relationships built among adult volunteers and youth have lasting effects. As Retired General Colin Powell stated, “When adults take time to help young people through 4-H, they exert an enormous, positive influence on the lives of youth.” From 4-H experiences led by volunteers, youth gain important leadership, citizenship and life skills that can be applied to daily living, used in their community, in future jobs or when they continue their education. Although it may be years before a youth realizes and truly appreciates the influence of the 4-H volunteers that served as positive adult role models, one can be certain that volunteers are truly making a difference.

The North Carolina 4-H Youth Development Program is a vital part of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at NC State University and NC A&T State University. More than 239,000 youth between the ages of 5 and 19 participate annually in the youth development program.

If you would like to learn more about 4-H, or would like to be a 4-H volunteer, contact your local Yadkin County Extension Office 336-679-2061 or visit the North Carolina 4-H Youth Development website at: nc4h.org.