How to Volunteer

Give your time to 4-H and become a volunteer!

4-H youth are leaders. They pursue their passions. They are critical thinkers and solve problems. YOU are the key to their success!

We need adult volunteers to mentor 4-H youth, lead local 4-H clubs, organize events, or teach fun science activities in after school programs. No experience necessary-we'll train you. But you must be 18 years old--or 25 to chaperone overnight trips--and pass a criminal background check.

For more information about volunteering with 4-H in Santa Clara County, please contact the 4-H secretary at the County 4-H Office.

Volunteer Opportunities

In 4-H after school clubs, volunteers teach experiential science for one hour, once a week for 10 weeks.

In 4-H clubs, adult volunteers may take on the following positions (download Adobe Acrobat Reader free at http://www.adobe.com to view and print these PDF files):

In 4-H management, volunteers may serve in a variety of organizational roles..

Steps to become a 4-H Volunteer

In order to provide a safe environment for youth, all prospective 4-H volunteers are required to:

Complete an Online Adult Enrollment Application which includes a code of conduct and confidential self-disclosure statement;
Submit to and receive criminal record clearance from the California Department of Justice (DOJ) through Live Scan electronic fingerprinting; and
Undergo a New Adult Volunteer Certification offered by the Volunteer Certification Coordinator in each 4-H Club or by county 4-H program staff.

Following DOJ clearance, completion of an Adult Volunteer Certification and Training, and payment of a nominal fee, volunteers are appointed for a one year term, renewable annually.