How to Volunteer

Make a difference as a 4-H volunteer!

4-H youth are leaders. They pursue their passions. They are critical thinkers and solve problems. We need adult volunteers like you to mentor 4-H youth, lead local 4-H clubs, organize events, or teach fun science activities in after-school programs. YOU are the key to their success! No experience necessary - we'll train you.

You must be at least 18 years old.

4-H chaperones must be 25 years old.

How Do I Become an Adult 4-H Volunteer?

In order to provide a safe environment for youth, all prospective 4-H volunteers must complete the 4-H Adult Volunteer requirements.

Volunteer Opportunities

In 4-H after-school clubs, adult volunteers partner with teens to train and teach hands-on science activities for one hour, once a week for 5-10 weeks.

In 4-H clubs, adult volunteers may take on the following positions

In 4-H management, adult volunteers may serve in a variety of organizational roles. The 4-H program year runs annually from July 1 to June 30.

The County Director for the University of California Cooperative Extension in Santa Clara County reviews and approves 4-H volunteer appointments after all the application requirements and mandatory training is completed. (e.g. you are signed up in 4hOnline, your fingerprints have cleared the *live scan screening process, and you have completed the Volunteer Training in eXtension). You will receive an email when your volunteer enrollment is approved.

*Live Scan Department of Justice clearance is required of any volunteer that is starting their first year of service or is returning after a break in 4-H volunteer service of a year or more.

For more information about volunteering with 4-H in Santa Clara County, please contact the 4-H Community Education Specialist, Zubia Mahmood zmahmood@ucanr.edu