4-H Volunteer Ventures

In this episode, we're exploring how 4-H is similar and different across counties and states. Kirsten Cowan joins us to discuss how each community makes 4-H its own while staying connected through a shared mission to empower young people to reach their full potential.

Jump in the time machine to learn about the early 4-H years in New Jersey! Jennie Thomas shares where 4-H started in the state, how victory gardens are part of 4-H history, and how the program grew over the years.

In this episode we're talking about 4-H club fundraisers. What steps need to be considered before starting? How can youth members be involved in the planning and implementation stages?

Welcome to the new 4-H year! Now is a great time to set goals and reconnect with the local 4-H office and fellow volunteers. In this episode, Amelia Valente walks us through some of the questions she asks 4-H club leaders at the start of the program year.

In this episode, Ed Wengryn, shares how his experience in 4-H influenced his career path to become the Secretary of Agriculture for New Jersey. Find out which life skills he developed in 4-H and how they support his work.

In this episode, we talk with recent 4-H graduate, Allison, about her experience in the program. Learn how Allison created a youth STEM summer camp with the support from her 4-H community. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/dont-worry License code: 3FTUA9G3TRJL6KXK

In this episode, 4-H alumna, Michelle, shares her perspective of the 4-H experience from member to club leader. We discuss how the experience evolves from youth member to adult volunteer, how to stay positive during stressful times, and witnessing youth succeed makes the hard work worthwhile.

In this episode, we're sharing tips to help kids (and adults) calm themselves when feeling overwhelmed. We share some simple, yet effective, games and activities that help regulate breathing, calm minds, and refocus energy. Books shared in this episode include: Breathe Like a Bear by Kira Willey Healing Breath: A Guided Meditation Through Nature for Kids by William Meyer

In this episode, we talk with recent 4-H graduate, Savannah, about her experience in the program. Find out how 4-H helped Savannah discover her spark, connect with her community, and develop the leadership skills to make a positive impact for others.

Take a deep breath. In this episode, we talk with Alayne Torretta who shares tips for keeping calm when conflict happens. Our reactions in tense situations have a direct impact on how the situation will play out.

In this episode, we chat with some 4-H members about their experience in the program so far. Hear why they joined 4-H, what they love about it, and what they're looking forward to next.

Volunteers want to see 4-H members be successful, but sometimes that means stepping back so the kids have space to lead. In this episode, we talk about why it's important to let the kids lead, how adults can offer support without doing the work, and letting go of expectations so kids can truly "learn by doing".

In this episode, we talk about how to respond to "What is 4-H?" with a quick and engaging answer. Valerie Smit provides tips to grab people's attention, especially parents.

What's the difference between traditional and non-traditional 4-H programs? In this episode, we talk with Kendrin Dyitt about his work supporting non-traditional 4-H programs and explore how this option meets the needs of youth, volunteers, and communities in a different format.

In this episode, we're celebrating National Volunteer Week and the podcasts' second anniversary! Matthew Newman joins us to reflect on the impact caring adult volunteers had on our own 4-H experiences and continue to inspire us. Thank you to all our amazing volunteers making a difference in the lives of young people.

In this episode, we're talking with Rodrigo Sanchez Hernandez about the Beyond Ready initiative. We discuss how volunteers play a valuable role in preparing youth for their future success. Beyond Ready checklist

In this episode, we dive into why generosity is an essential element in youth development, fostering empathy, gratitude, and a strong sense of community. We discuss practical ways to nurture a giving mindset in young people.

In this episode, we explore why independence is an essential element in youth development. Learn how adults can intentionally create opportunities that empower young people to take ownership of their growth and future.

Our conversation on the essential elements of positive youth development continues with mastery. This time, we talk about how building skills and celebrating progress empowers youth to believe in themselves.

Belonging is that feeling of being seen and accepted for who you are, and it matters more than we sometimes realize. In this episode, we talk about why having a real sense of connection is important for youth and how it shapes their confidence, growth, and well-being.

In this episode, we discuss the 4-H motto, "Learn by Doing". We examine the stages of experiential learning: do, reflect, and apply. What are the benefits for both youth and adults learning by doing together?

In this episode we're setting SMART goals. What are they and how do they help us be successful in meeting our goals? We'll walk through the 4-H from Home activity that uses the 4-H pledge as a framework to create SMART goals. Using the 4-H Pledge to Create SMART Goals - https://4-h.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/07092333/4-H-Pledge-to-Create-SMART-Goals-PDF_v2.pdf

In this episode, we learn about the Monmouth County 4-H Alumni Association and their role in supporting the county's 4-H program. We talk with Virginia Krzyzanowski and Cathy Rupner about how it started and what lessons they learned along the way.

In this episode, we chat with 4-H volunteer, Melissa Young, about how to build sustainable 4-H programs that continue for years to come. Hear some first-hand experiences and tips for success from this 4-H volunteer.

In this episode, we meet Debra Winters, 4-H volunteer and alumna. We talk about the transition from member to volunteer and the motivations for alumni to stay connected to the 4-H community.