Volunteers play a vital role in supporting 4-H youth clubs and programming. University of Illinois Extension’s 4-H youth development program in Marshall-Putnam Counties honors its 2023 volunteers during National Volunteer Week, April 16-22.

National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to recognize the continued impact that volunteers have. “Volunteers are the lifeblood of our clubs,” says Patricia McGlaughlin, 4-H youth development specialist for volunteer development. “On average, 4-H volunteers give more than eight hours per month to their program. Annually, that time is worth almost $3,000 per volunteer. But the gift of their time, skills, and passion is really invaluable to the youth they support.”

4-H clubs and programs benefit from volunteers, but volunteers also benefit from the volunteering experience; gaining skills in teaching, leadership, and communication that are useful in their work and lives. 

“Most of our volunteers report that they gained useful skills, increased their confidence, and made connections in the community,” says McGlaughlin. “Volunteering is a two-way street in 4-H. Volunteers give to the clubs, but the clubs really give right back.”

Marshall-Putnam Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists volunteer with 4-H. They teach our area youth in four schools. These schools allow us to come into their classroom and teach their students how to plant a garden.

There’s no one path to volunteering with 4-H. Ways to volunteer could include leading or beginning a local or special interest club, teaching a skill through workshops, judging projects at fairs and competitions, planning or helping at events, or serving on club advisory boards.

4-H clubs are always looking for new volunteers to share a passion, skill, talent, or time to help impact today’s youth. For more information on 4-H and becoming a 4-H volunteer, contact Anne Scheel, amscheel@illinois.edu or 309-364-2356.

About Illinois 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences.4-H grows true leaders, youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow. The hands-on approach in 4-H gives young people guidance, tools and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research confirms the unparalleled impact of the 4-H experience, demonstrating that young people are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs. 

If you have questions or need more information please call University of Illinois Extension- Bureau, LaSalle, Marshall, Putnam Unit Office at 815-224-0889. Extension offices are located in Princeton, Ottawa, Henry and in Oglesby on the IVCC campus.