Frequently Asked Question

4-H is a wonderful, fun, and educational program for boys and girls. We never have a problem recruiting youth to join our organization. We are in need of adult volunteers to organize and lead new clubs in Kane County. Staff from University of Illinois Extension is available to support interested volunteers in their journey of organizing a new 4-H club. Below are answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions about leading a 4-H club.

What is 4-H?
4-H is a voluntary, informal education program for boys and girls who are ages 8 to 18 by September 1 of the 4-H year. 4-H is open to everyone regardless of where they live!

What does it cost to join 4-H?
4-H has no membership fee. There are costs associated with project manuals, project materials, and some 4-H activities and events.

What are 4-H projects?
4-H projects are challenging, yet practical planned courses of study with learning experiences centered on a specific subject. Projects range from computers to foods; health to woodworking; communications to entomology. There are over 175 different projects for youth to choose from. Youth can expand on a current interest or develop new ones. Individuals or the entire club can do project work.

What is a 4-H club?
A club is a group of five or more youth ages 8 to 18 guided by an adult volunteer. A club must have officers (either elected or appointed) and must meet a minimum of six times during the 4-H year. The 4-H year runs from September 1 through August 31.

What happens at a 4-H club meeting?
Youth officers will run the club meeting with the guidance of an adult volunteer. A typical meeting includes the following: business meeting; talks and demonstrations by members, parents or special guests; recreation; and a healthy snack. Depending on the interests of your group, there may also be time for the entire group to work on a club project. Many clubs meet for an hour or two. Sometimes clubs will hold special meetings to participate in community service or other recreational activities.

What are the responsibilities of the 4-H club leader?
The club leader is responsible for the organizational functions of the club. One person or several can do this role. The club leader meets with the club officers to plan the meeting agenda, distributes publications for the club, and receives Extension Office correspondence. They are also responsible for enrolling youth in the club and recruiting other parents to help. Ideally, it is great if 2 or 3 adults can work together.

How much time does it take to be a 4-H club leader?
This is dependent on the involvement you wish your group to have in the organization. We estimate it takes a minimum of 10 hours per month.

What do I do to become a 4-H volunteer?
All 4-H volunteers must complete the volunteer screening process. This includes the following: an application; reference checks; Department of Children and Family Services child abuse and neglect tracking system check; Illinois State Police background check; and the Illinois State Police sex offender website check. Volunteers are also asked to complete a brief on-line orientation. After successfully completing this process, you are ready to begin your 4-H club.

What about training opportunities for volunteers?
University of Illinois Extension offers many opportunities for volunteers. Those opportunities can be as follows: fact sheets, face to face training, networking with other volunteers, conferences, and personal consultation with Extension staff.

What do I need to do to get started?
The very first thing interested volunteers need to do is complete the volunteer screening process. Once that is underway, Extension Office staff will work with the volunteer(s) to organize a 4-H Find Out Party for interested youth and their families. After the Find Out Party, we will then have the first official 4-H club/organizational meeting. This process may take up to six weeks.