4-H Youth Development
Clemson Extension agents with primary Youth Development responsibilities work closely with state extension specialists and researchers located on campus and at the various research and education centers located across the state. They provide expertise in topics including animal agriculture and veterinary science, natural resources and the environment, gardening, leadership and citizenship, personal growth and development, and science, engineering and technology.
Local Agent
Shannon Herndon, 803-259-7141 Ext 117, sbhrndn@clemson.edu
Events
A variety of programs and events are held during the year for fun and learning. Here are some of them:
Super Sitters Workshop December 29-30, 2009
DNR Hunter Education November 14, 2009
4-H Cloverbuds (children, ages 5-8) may only participate in non-competitive 4-H events and activities.
Opportunities
There are many ways to volunteer in 4-H. Volunteers are critical to reach more youth and offer a variety of 4-H projects, events, and activities. Here are some examples of the many ways you can volunteer to help 4-H in the county:
You can serve as a:
- 4-H club leader or helper
- Coach to train 4-H youth for 4-H competitive shows and contests
- Judge for 4-H awards and contests
- Organizer or helper for county 4-H educational or fundraising events
- Teacher for 4-H school enrichment programs
- Trainer for other 4-H volunteers in his or her area of expertise
- Project expert for a 4-H club
- Seeker or co-writer of grant proposals to help fund 4-H programs
- Organize annual 4-H awards program/dinner
- Recruiter of 4-H clubs and leaders in a section of the county
- Chaperone for 4-H trips or conferences
- Writer of 4-H news releases
- Photographer for 4-H activities and events
- Web developer or contributor
- Co-writer or co-publisher of a county r-H newsletter
- Designer or distributor of 4-H promotional materials
- Representative or speaker on behalf of 4-H at local service clubs, County Council meetings, etc.
If you are an adult interested in volunteering in 4-H, contact the county Extension 4-H office at 803-259-7141 ext. 117 or sbhrndn@clemson.edu. For more detailed information about 4-H and resources for 4-H volunteers, visit the state-wide 4-H website.
4-H has a responsibility to provide a safe and healthy environment for youth. Therefore, all 4-H volunteers complete a screening and orientation process before being appointed.
- All prospective volunteers complete a 4-H Volunteer Registration Form and a Clemson Extension Volunteer Status Form, which includes an authorization for a background check and a request for references.
- All volunteers then participate in an orientation using the Leader Training Series.
- When all requirements are satisfied, volunteers are appointed to their roles by the county 4-H agent.