Bourbonnais, Ill. – Volunteers play a vital role in supporting 4-H youth clubs and programming.  University of Illinois Extension’s 4-H youth development program in Grundy, Kankakee, & Will Counties honors our volunteers during National Volunteer Week, April 21-27.

"On behalf of our whole office, I would like to thank each and every one of our 4-H volunteers. Our volunteers are the backbone of our program, and without all of their hard work and dedication, we would not be able to provide so many wonderful and educational opportunities to our 4-H members,"  says Brittney Muschetto, 4-H youth development educator serving Grundy, Kankakee, & Will Counties, "I am proud to work alongside so many dedicated and passionate individuals who help to move the mission of our program forwards every day. We couldn't do it without you! Thank you for your continued support, and Happy National Volunteer Week from all of us, here at Extension."

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.”

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 competition, 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 the Extension office online at extension.illinois.edu/gkw

SOURCE: Brittney Muschetto, 4-H Youth Development Educator

WRITER: Carissa Nelson, 4-H Media Communications Manager.  Anthony Warmack, Communications & Marketing Program Coordinator

ABOUT ILLINOIS 4-H:  Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension. 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.