The Impact of Volunteering: A Multi-State Study of 4-H Youth Development Volunteers

Volunteers are vital to youth development programming as a key piece of the workforce. This evaluation measured the impact of volunteers in the 4-H youth development program and demonstrated the value volunteers bring to youth development environments. The north central region 4-H volunteer impact s...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Samantha Grant, Sarah Maass, Rachelle Vettern, Rebecca Harrington, Kandi O’Neil, Patricia McGlaughlin, Tillie Good
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Clemson University Press 2020-07-01
Series:Journal of Youth Development
Subjects:
Online Access:http://jyd.pitt.edu/ojs/jyd/article/view/870
Description
Summary:Volunteers are vital to youth development programming as a key piece of the workforce. This evaluation measured the impact of volunteers in the 4-H youth development program and demonstrated the value volunteers bring to youth development environments. The north central region 4-H volunteer impact study was conducted with volunteers in the 4-H Youth Development program across 12 states. The purpose of the study was to better understand the value of being a 4-H volunteer. Results showed that volunteers personally benefited from their involvement in these settings by becoming more experienced at working with youth and by learning skills that transferred to other settings. Volunteers also served as guides for youth as they gained leadership skills and gave back to their communities. In addition, the Extension organization benefits included volunteer time, donations of money and supplies, and volunteers serving as ambassadors for youth development programs.
ISSN:2325-4017