This is the place to start for both new and returning volunteers to access information on training requirements, club resources, forms, etc.
Adults interested in becoming a volunteer with the Madison County 4-H program must complete a seven step process. These steps do not need to be done in sequence, but must all be completed before an adult begins working with youth in our county. If you are interested in becoming a 4-H Volunteer, please call 740-852-0975 to schedule an interview appointment with Frances Foos, 4-H Extension Educator. (Note: You may need to open some of the forms "in a different viewer". All pdf documents are "fillable".)
- Welcome potential 4-H Volunteer Letter
- Ohio 4-H Volunteer Application: ONLINE (preferred method) | Printable Form | Fillable PDF
- Read, agreed to and sign 4-H Volunteer Standards of Behavior (Updated 11/2020)
- Completion of Interview with 4-H Extension Educator (call the office to schedule)
- References checked (must submit 3 on application)
- Participate in a new 4-H Volunteer orientation (typically take place from December through February)
- 4-H Volunteer Criminal History Fingerprint Background Check Procedure (as of 11.2021)
- Policy 1.50 Child Abuse & Neglect Yearly, Mandatory Training - Offered at the Volunteer Orientation. Contact the Extension Office for more information.
The Ohio 4-H Volunteer Handbook is a great resource for volunteers.
We have a tremendous core of 4-H Volunteers with the Madison County 4-H program. 4-H Volunteers who have given one or more years of service need to complete the following requirements:
- Update a 4-H Volunteer online re-enrollment by March 15 to the Extension office
- Review, sign and submit the 4-H Volunteer Standards of Behavior (Updated 11/2020) and commit to upholding those standards (Completed via 4-H Online)
- Submit a Background Check every 4 years (will receive notice in the mail when required)
- Background Check Procedure (as of 11.2021)
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR 2023:
1. Complete one of the following options (Click here for the document for training requirements AND Online Course Instructions)
- OPTION A: NEW FOR 2023: There will be an Online Course option for volunteers to complete at your own pace to watch video recordings, answer quizzes, etc. (~1 hour of videos total). See the link above for the online course instructions.
- To access the online course, visit go.osu.edu/madcovolunteercourse (direct link: https://cfaesosu.catalog.instructure.com/courses/madison-county-4-h-volunteer-training)
- OPTION B: Live Training (Zoom or In-Person). Must RSVP via email to boggs.1238@osu.edu
- February 23 – 7pm – Virtual via Zoom
- March 8 – 6:30pm – Coughlin Building
2. Complete the Minors Policy 1.50 training online in the online course option OR arrive 30 minutes early to any in-person training for in-person Policy 1.50 training
Click the button below for specific information for volunteers:
Club Organizational Packet - Required forms and resources for club volunteers
Yearly Training Requirements for Volunteers
Other Volunteer Opportunities:
Key Leaders are middle management resource individuals who assist with the 4-H program. If you have an interest/expertise in a certain project area or event, please contact the Extension office for more details.
OSU Extension Madison County Advisory Committee: Any Madison County 4-H adult volunteer or 4-H member who is at least 14 years of age (as of Jan. 1) and is a freshman is welcome to attend the committee meetings.
4-H Volunteer Job Descriptions
Three categories will apply for filing purposes. Please review the following descriptions and responsibilities and let our office know which position you will be coordinating.
• Organizational/Community Club Advisor—The lead volunteer of the club serves as the primary contact between the club and the county Extension office and gives leadership to managing and organizing club experiences.
• Project/Activity Advisor—This volunteer role is responsible for teaching knowledge and skills for project area(s). Share your skills, talents, and special interests in a single project area. Examples include clothing, dogs, rabbits, horses, bicycling, computers, woodworking, photography, etc. This volunteer could also coordinate club activities such as community service, fund raising, trips and tours, promotional activities, recognition programs, family nights, and more.
• Cloverbud Advisor—This role focuses on providing non-competitive experiences that meet the special needs and interests of youth 5 through 8 years old. Talk with your county Extension professional to find out more about the requirements to become a Cloverbud Advisor in your county