Youth Officers
4-H club officers are elected annually in accordance with the club's constitution and bylaws. Under the guidance of the 4-H community club leader and/or the officer's advisor, officers are responsible for a particular part of the 4-H club's function. Generally, 4-H clubs have a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. However, 4-H units may have additional officers according to their constitution and bylaws. Other activities and events may be planned by a committee.
Together, the 4-H club officer team is responsible for the administration of the 4-H club and its programs. Club officers plan and carry out community club meetings. This process engages officers by encouraging them to learn experientially. The officer advisor serves as a facilitator, counselor, resource provider, and coach to the officers.
The objectives of holding an office include increased:
- planning and organizing skills.
- teamwork, leadership, and social skills.
- communication and public speaking skills.
- self-responsibility.
- decision making skills.
- record keeping and management skills.
Responsibilities
As an officer, you will manage the planning and implementation of the club’s programs and business. You will be a guardian of the club’s legal, financial, social, and educational responsibilities. Officers are responsible for ensuring that the club is inclusive and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, or disability.
The general duties of holding an office include:
- Learn and act upon the duties of your office.
- Be an active member of the board of officers.
- Attend officer executive board meetings.
- Attend club meetings and activities.
- Lead in planning meetings and events.
- Give your opinion on issues, but also listen to what others have to say.
- Actively represent 4-H in your community.
- Let the officer advisor know if you are unable to attend a meeting.
Club officers and officer advisors have an important responsibility to their club, the University of California, and the public. The club has educational goals for its membership, service and membership goals for the community, and fiscal and legal responsibilities to the University of California.
For more information, visit the state website: http://www.ca4h.org/Programs/Clubs/Officers/
Officer Team Resources
Annual 4-H Club Planner : This planner helps Officer Teams plan out their club activities for the year. It is best to complete this early in the program year, and then update it as needed. The 4-H Club Meeting Planner may also be used specifically for planning community club meetings.
4-H Officer's Manual (2013) : This manual explains the responsibilities of each officer, how to appoint committees, the basics of parliamentary procedure, and much more.
4-H Treasurer's Manual (2014) : This manual explains all of the responsibilities of the Club Treasurer in detail. It includes samples of each form, as well as blank copies for the Treasurer's use.
Healthy Living Officer Guide : Many clubs are adding a Healthy Living Officer to make sure that the fourth H (health) is included in all parts of their program. This guide gives these new officers tips on how to do this in fun and effective ways.
4-H Club Business Meeting Agenda (template) : This template helps officer teams plan agendas that follow parliamentary procedure.
4-H Club Meeting Minutes (template) : This template helps the Secretary create complete and accurate meeting minutes.
4-H Outreach Methods Documentation : All clubs are expected to reach out to all youth in their community and invite them to participate in their programs. This document outlines what methods are are available and encouraged.
4-H Branding Toolkit: Interested in making flyers, t-shirts, or other promotional materials? Check out the resources and templates provided by the State 4-H Office!