The Cooperative Extension Service and 4-H’s mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of Kentucky citizens through non-formal education for the entire family.  With over 1000 different youth involved in the Green County 4-H program, finding a way to connect on a personal relationship with each youth is critical for empowering youth with skills and confidence.  The Green County 4-H program realized to connect with youth in a meaningful way, volunteers would be the foundation for their success.  

The Green County 4-H Council recruited volunteers from diverse audiences and backgrounds to offer programs of interest to the youth of the county.  The 4-H program utilized diverse marketing to recruit volunteers from different ethnicities and backgrounds.  4-H Agents and teen leaders attended diversity training learning how to engage international youth with limited English efficiency.  Leader training offered taught volunteers skills to create meaningful relationships. Leaders conducted programs with the 4-H and Extension’s staff assistance an in their absence expanding the reach of the 4-H program to more youth with more diverse interest.

For the 2019 program year, over 2,000 volunteers were involved in a 4-H activity.   Summer camp saw a 50% increase in minorities due to the recruitment of minority volunteers.  New clubs like dog, livestock, and horse are available to Green County 4-H members because of the expertise of volunteers.  Using a recognized value of $7.50/hour with the volunteers working a minimum of one hour each has contributed $15,000 to the 4-H program beyond expanding the program’s reach.  Many volunteers are more generous with their time as they see the impact on the youth’s lives.