Volunteering
True leaders aren’t born: they’re grown. With Michigan 4-H, youth grow to become confident and strong, curious enough to question and capable enough to find the answers. Grow to become young people who stick to a job until the job gets done and know how to work with others, as well as lead. Volunteer with Michigan 4-H and help grow true leaders in your community by empowering young people with skills to lead for a lifetime.
Learn more about the volunteer selection process & submit your application!
What is Michigan 4-H?
A program of Michigan State University (MSU) Extension, Michigan 4-H is the largest youth development organization in the state, with more than 200,000 youth participating in countless ways. From veterinary science to performing arts, science and technology to youth entrepreneurship, and communications to outdoor and environmental education, today’s 4-H programs are so much more than farm animals—although we have those too!
At the core of Michigan 4-H, and critical to the success of its youth, are more than 16,000 volunteers who give their time and talents to grow 4-H’ers. These volunteers serve in a number of capacities: some choose to help at camp, teach a workshop or lead a club, while others chaperone an event, lend their professional skills or help at the fair. As they provide hands-on guidance and real-world experience, these volunteers also offer young people another crucially important element: a healthy adult role model who helps to grow their confidence and ignite their dreams for the future.
Can volunteers grow with 4-H too?
In addition to growing youth, 4-H volunteers benefit from their involvement too.
- New friendships
- A connection with youth
- Improved community
- Leadership
- A new passion
- Positive change
- Enhanced skills
- A lasting legacy
What are the steps to becoming a 4-H volunteer?
Whether you want a short-term volunteer experience or a long-term role, 4-H has an opportunity for you! We recommend you contact the MSU Extension office in the county where you want to volunteer. A 4-H program coordinator will follow up with you about volunteering and the application process found on MSU Extension Volunteer Central. Because safety is our No. 1 priority, we are committed to a thorough Volunteer Selection Process that can include an application, national and state background checks, references, an interview and online training modules. There is no charge to you as a volunteer for these background checks or the selection process.
Interested in becoming a 4-H volunteer but have some questions of your own?