Statistics from the Independent Sector (IS) states that the estimated value of a volunteer hour in the United States reached $29.95 in 2021 that the average adult 4-H volunteer contributes 220 hours per year, donates $65 to $100 per year in supplies. The statistics can not reflect the true dedication, friendship and role models that many 4-H volunteers are for 4-H members.  As one alumni 4-H member shared with the County Extension Agent for 4-H Youth Development at the death of his father “Through the years the Extension Service and 4-H have become an extended family. I always felt secure, comforted and loved at 4-H functions, just like coming home!” Unfortunately Barren County Cooperative Extension Service 4-H Program lost five “family members” to illness this year. The 4-H volunteers had a combined total of 165 YEARS of service to the 4-H program. They had all given one of our most precious commodities-time- to help our youth. Many present and alumni 4-H members and leaders provided assistance to them and their families during their illness and paid their respects at their death. The dedication that these volunteers possessed to the 4-H program was evident even at their death- buried wearing their 4-H pin, funeral services and obituaries mentioned their services to the 4-H program and alternate expressions of sympathy were dedicated to the Barren County 4-H program. Awards to honor their dedicated service are being established by the Barren County 4-H Council.