CAYUGA CO., N.Y. — In 1902, an educator from Ohio held the first meeting of the Boys and Girls Agriculture Club. A decade later these agricultural clubs became known as 4-H Clubs. What started as a way to connect youth with new agricultural developments through hands-on learning has grown into the largest youth development organization in the United States. Today, 4-H serves almost six million members in rural, urban and suburban communities in every state.
The mission of 4-H is simple: To connect youth with hands-on learning opportunities enabling them to grow into competent, caring and contributing members of society. The Cayuga County 4-H Youth Development Program connects adults with youth to develop a positive self-concept, an inquiring mind, a concern for the community, healthy interpersonal relationships and sound decision making. 4-H is based on the principles of Positive Youth Development, experiential learning and the importance of having fun. We prioritize creating a safe and including space for learning and sharing and welcome people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. From veterinary science to performing arts, science and technology to youth entrepreneurship, and communications to outdoor and environmental education, today’s 4-H programs are so much more than farm animals—although we have those too!
Cayuga County’s 4-H program wouldn’t exist without its volunteers. 4-H volunteers coordinate 4-H community clubs, lead 4-H projects and help to plan and conduct local 4-H events. Whatever you have to offer, we have a place for you. Our volunteer opportunities range from a one-time experience to an on-going relationship between you and 4-H. Your skills and talents are very much needed to assist our young people as they grow and develop.
People volunteer in many ways depending on their interests, skills and time they can devote to 4-H. As a 4-H volunteer you might:
- Lead a 4-H project in a subject area that excites you — forestry, fishing, fashion, foods, farm animals and many more.
- Teach workshops at a special event. Share your favorite hobby or skill.
- Judge at the county fair or at livestock events and contests.
- Manage a 4-H community club. Schedule club meetings, train club officers, recruit parents to help and be the communication link between your club and the county 4-H office.
- Help with 4-H fundraising. Contact Friends of 4-H to learn more.
- Become a certified shooting sports instructor.
If you interested in becoming a volunteer with the Cayuga County 4-H program, please contact Erin Humphrey at (315) 255-1183, ext. 232 or emw54@cornell.edu. You can also download our volunteer application at http://blogs.cornell.edu/ccecayuga
–Cornell Cooperative Extension Cayuga County
For more articles out of New York, click here.