4-H Volunteer Training and Resources

Training and Recognition

Training is conducted at local, state and regional levels. New 4-H volunteers receive a general orientation, and depending on each local 4-H office, meetings will be held several times a year to help new leaders. The Connecticut 4-H Volunteer Conference is held every other year at the state level, and there is a regional 4-H volunteer forum.

Just as we recognize the efforts of youth, the UConn 4-H Program recognizes and acknowledges its volunteers for their efforts at the local, state and national level.

Getting Started

• Decide that you want to volunteer with youth.
• Contact your local 4-H Educator to discuss your interests and time commitments click here for local 4-H contacts.
• Complete and return the Connecticut Volunteer Application.
• Upon submission of the volunteer application, references will be contacted and a background check will be conducted by the UConn Human Resources Department. 
• Once approved as a 4-H volunteer, you will receive an orientation about 4-H and being an effective volunteer.
• Begin your journey as a 4-H volunteer helping youth to Make the Best Better.

Resources

• Becoming a Volunteer of Record with UConn Extension 4-H
• 4-H Volunteer Handbook
• University of Connecticut Background Check Form - The 4-H volunteer screening process is now completed online. Please check with your local 4-H educator about the process.  Please do not send completed forms to UConn. 
• CT 4-H Enrollment Form
• Health Form
• Instructions to Access UConn Minor Protection Training in the 4-H Online Enrollment System

Fact Sheets

• 4-H Funding
• Challenging Personalities
• Communication
• History of 4-H
• Parent Do's and Don'ts
• Special Needs and Diversity
• The 4-H Volunteer
• Understanding 4-H Judging
• Virtual Connections
• Ages and Stages
• Explorers
• Program Planning