4-H, the youth development organization of North Carolina Cooperative Extension, serves young people aged 5-18 through nonformal research-based activities focused on hands-on learning. We believe in young people and know that every child has value in improving the world around us. Through 4-H, participants gain knowledge and life skills enabling them to become positive, productive, capable, and compassionate members of their communities. There are over 188,000 4-H’ers currently in North Carolina. The large impact that 4-H makes on youth is largely done through the efforts of volunteers.

Volunteers are the key to success in 4-H. By helping with programs, providing content education, or assisting behind the scenes, volunteers extend the reach that 4-H has to offer. Without their time and support, 4-H would not be the largest youth organization in the United States, with more than 7 million participants. Club leaders, in particular, play a pivotal role in shaping the confidence and self-esteem of 4-H members. These volunteers form lasting relationships with youth, encouraging them to take on new challenges and pursue growth. They are some of the biggest cheerleaders for our youth and push them to succeed and try new things. The 4-H Motto is “To Make the Best Better,” and with volunteer support, we push youth to become the best version of themselves.

Montgomery County 4-H is actively seeking volunteers for a variety of roles. Whether you have a few hours a year or can commit more regularly, there’s a place for you to make an impact. All 4-H volunteers who work with youth in an unsupervised capacity are required to complete and pass a background check and have a current volunteer application on file. Volunteers can assist with special interest programming, primarily during the summer months, or lead longer-term initiatives such as 4-H clubs. There are so many talents, skills, and hobbies that can be passed down to the next generation through 4-H with fun hands-on programming. Programs can be one-time events or a short-term series that meets for several sessions. For those who are able to dedicate more time, club leaders play an especially important role in the personal growth of their members. Club leaders are individuals who are passionate about a specific topic and have time to contribute to planning, organizing, and meeting with youth each month. Each 4-H club requires a minimum of two club leaders and can focus on a variety of topics, including community service, crafts, equine, robotics, leadership, and more. Being a part of a 4-H club can make the biggest impact on a youth’s development and self-image as they get to socialize, learn, and grow with others in a consistent, welcoming, environment.

4-H is open to all youth, regardless of background, abilities, or education. We strive to create opportunities for everyone—whether they are privately schooled, come from urban areas, or have differing abilities. Our programming focuses on developing life skills such as responsibility, leadership, critical thinking, communication, and record-keeping.

Though 4-H began with an emphasis on agriculture, the organization now offers a broad range of programs that include STEM, healthy living, and citizenship. With multiple activities and learning experiences offered, we are able to spark the interests of a wide range of youth. Volunteers play a critical role in bringing these educational experiences to life, helping youth explore their interests and reach their full potential. As a volunteer with 4-H, you’ll be directly shaping the future of youth in Montgomery County. Your involvement can make a lasting difference in their development and through your support we’ll continue to help 4-H’ers become problem-solvers, engaged citizens, and leaders in our community.

To get involved with Montgomery County 4-H or to learn more about volunteer opportunities, please contact Anna Hamilton, Montgomery County 4-H Youth Development Agent, at (910) 576-6011 or anna_hamilton@ncsu.edu. A world of fun, connections, learning, and smiles awaits you!

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