Become a 4-H Volunteer
Contact Information
For questions regarding Kentucky State University Extension, please contact:
Tyrell Kahan, DVM, MDP, DACVPM
Associate Extension Administrator
Telephone: 502-597-6311
Email: tyrell.kahan@kysu.edu
For questions regarding Kentucky State University 4-H Youth Development Program, please contact:
Austin P. Jacobs Ph.D.
4-H Extension Associate
Email: austin.jacobs@kysu.edu
Telephone:502-597-6030
Join Kentucky State University 4-H as a Volunteer
For more information about 4-H programs in your county or local area, please contact us using the email address or phone number provided to the left. You may also complete the interest survey by using the link below. https://kysu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5sE3UaaSfJSrao6
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About 4-H Youth Development
4-H Youth Development is a division of the Kentucky State University’s Cooperative Extension Program. Extension’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of Kentucky citizens through non-formal education for the entire family. Kentucky 4-H provides education and life skill development opportunities for youth to grow into confident, capable, and contributing members of their communities.
4-H Youth Development Programming
Kentucky State University’s Cooperative Extension Program 4-H Youth Development program strives to increase agricultural literacy among youth in Kentucky. Areas of exploration within 4-H Family Consumer Science include Culinary Programs, Textiles & Fashion, Nutrition Education, Financial Management, Entrepreneurship, Home Environment, and Child Care.
The leadership skills and experiences gained through 4-H can enhance youth’s readiness for future careers by providing valuable experiences and demonstrating leadership potential. Through 4-H leadership, youth can build a network of peers, mentors, and professionals that can provide support and guidance in their personal and professional lives. In addition to leadership skills, 4-H involvement can help youth develop important life skills such as time management, organization, and public speaking.
What it Means to be a 4-H Volunteer
Volunteers serve in several capacities: some choose to help at camp, teach a workshop, or lead a club, while others chaperone an event, lend their professional skills or help at the fair. As they provide direct guidance and real-world experience, these volunteers also offer young people another crucially essential element: a healthy adult role model who helps them become beyond ready for whatever life brings their way.
Can volunteers become beyond ready with 4-H too?
In addition to preparing youth, 4-H volunteers benefit from their involvement too.
- New friendships
- A connection with youth
- Improved community
- Leadership
- A new passion
- Positive change
- Enhanced skills
- A lasting legacy
What are the steps to becoming a 4-H volunteer?
Whether you want short-term volunteer experience or a long-term role, 4-H has an opportunity for you! Kentucky State University 4-H Youth Development Program takes seriously its obligation to provide a safe environment for all people involved in volunteer activities. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, you must complete and submit a 4-H Volunteer Packet to your local County Extension Office or the State Office at 105 University Dr, Frankfort, KY 40601. Because safety is our No. 1 priority, we are committed to a thorough Volunteer Selection Process that can include an application, national and state background checks, references, interview, and online training modules. There is no charge to you as a volunteer for these background checks or the selection process.
Interested in becoming a 4-H volunteer but have some questions of your own?
Complete the interest form and someone will contact you regarding completing the following paperwork and to schedule an interview.
Required Forms (PDF)
Volunteer Background Check
Release of Liability for Volunteers