April 17-23 was national volunteer week, a time to salute our volunteers and say thank you. Fond du Lac 4-H volunteers teach, plan and organize, advice, help raise funds and mentor young people, so they may have the best experiences possible.  Adult volunteers are essential to the 4-H program as they put 4-H’s learn-by-doing model in to action. Volunteers help youth learn and practice skills such as problem solving, decision making, and communicating – skills crucial for their success in school, careers, and communities.

Do you know how to do grow vegetables or have some woodworking skills? Have you worked with animals, made a quilt, used a camera, or have baking skills? Maybe building rockets is your passion, or you like doing crafts.  If you answered yes to any of these questions, you could share this passion or skill as a 4-H volunteer.   The 4-H program is always seeking new 4-H adult leaders to work with youth on hands-on projects. You do not need to be an expert. We are looking for adults who may want to lead a session at our Family Learning Day, provide feedback to youth as a judge at the Community Arts Festival, or even help in the Extension Office. We are seeking volunteers who would like to be part of the 2022 Day Camp Committee. If you know of individuals who would be a great fit for Cloverbud Day Camp, Art Day Camp, or Cardboard Day Camp opportunities for the summer of 2022, there are opportunities for you to learn with the youth, help support youth leaders, and share your knowledge. Volunteers can volunteer anywhere from once a year for a few hours to once a week!

Would you like to join them? To become a volunteer there are a few steps.  The adult will create a profile in 4HOnline.  Once in 4HOnline, the adult must complete mandated reporter training, a required background check will be completed and a Volunteer in Preparation training must be completed.  Adults can register for the Volunteer in Preparation (VIP) training by contacting the Extension Office. Once all four steps are completed, the adult will received an official volunteer letter.  Find more information about 4-H and volunteering at our website, contact Extension Fond du Lac County at 920-929-3171, or e-mail Tracy Keifenheim at tracy.keifenheim@wisc.edu.