Burlington--The start of the new 4-H year brings new opportunities for youths, ages 5-18, to enroll in a club and for adults to volunteer to support 4-H programming and events.

"4-H programs help youths explore their interests and leads them on their way to finding and developing the skills they need for careers and personal fulfillment," notes Sarah Kleinman, University of Vermont (UVM) Extension 4-H state program director. "Adult volunteers help them find what sparks their passion, whether it's traditional 4-H projects, such as dairy, culinary and clothing, or newer offerings, including robotics, coding, environmental education and the performing arts."

Currently, Vermont 4-H offers both virtual and in-person activities for all ages from the youngest 4-H Cloverbuds (ages 5-7) to teens, who may participate in teen science cafés and leadership programs such as TRY (Teens Reaching Youth) for the Environment or volunteer as teen assistants at local and state 4-H events.

Opportunities for adults may range from working with short-term programs that teach a skill or longer-term commitments, such as serving as a club or project leader. Having a specific skill set or experience teaching youths is not necessary as Vermont 4-H will train interested individuals on positive youth development practices.

"Volunteering is more about working side by side with youths to facilitate learning experiences although often benefits the adults as much as the 4-H'ers," Kleinman says, citing findings from the 2020 Northeast Region Volunteer Impact Survey, conducted by the Northeast Region Volunteerism Group.

Respondents credited their 4-H volunteer work with honing their organizational skills, helping them work with more diverse youth and handling difficult situations. Others lauded volunteering for increasing their level of community service and raising their awareness of what young people can do to make a difference in their communities.

To learn more about joining a 4-H club or becoming an adult 4-H volunteer, contact the UVM Extension State 4-H Office, toll-free at (800) 571-0668 or (802) 651-8343.