Become a Volunteer

Florida 4-H provides a safe and healthy place for youth to learn and grow. Youth build a sense of belonging and form strong relationships with caring adults.

They learn by doing and discover their interests, or “spark.”

Volunteers play a key role in this work. They mentor youth, lead clubs, and help with events.

Background screening is required under Florida law. Final approval is made by the Florida Department of Children and Families.

To get started, contact the 4-H office.

• Expectations

  Florida 4-H volunteers are expected to help create a safe and positive place for youth to learn and grow.

  Volunteers must follow UF/IFAS and Florida 4-H policies and best practices. They should model respectful behavior and follow the Florida 4-H Code of Conduct at all times.

  Volunteers are required to complete yearly training. This includes Youth Protection and Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting training.

  Volunteers must be enrolled in 4-H Online each program year and take part in any required county training.

   

• Volunteer Roles

  Volunteers can help in many ways.

  Some help for a short time. They may judge events, teach lessons, help at camps, or serve on the advisory board.

  Parents often help as club assistants. Club leaders organize and lead clubs throughout the year.

  Teachers and after-school staff may also serve as 4-H volunteers. Extra screening is only needed if activities take place outside school hours or off campus.

  If you have time or a skill to share, there is a place for you in 4-H.

  To learn more or find the right role, contact the 4-H office.

• Application Process

  Adults who want to volunteer will follow these steps:

  1. Contact the UF/IFAS Orange County Extension Office to talk with a 4-H Agent about volunteer opportunities.
  2. Apply through 4-H Online. The 4-H office will provide instructions to help you through the process.
  3. Complete the required background screening. The level of screening depends on the volunteer role.
  4. Take part in an interview and provide two personal references through 4-H Online.
  5. Complete the required Youth Protection and Mandatory Child Abuse Reporting training. This training must be finished before the application can move forward.
  6. After training and successful screening, receive approval from the local Extension office. Each year, volunteers must update their enrollment and complete training to stay active.
  7. Take part in 4-H volunteer onboarding and training. Club leaders may have extra yearly training and reporting requirements.

  More details about screening requirements can be found in the Florida 4-H Youth Protection Policy. 

  For help at any step, contact the Extension office.