4-H Volunteer Ventures

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.

In this episode, we discuss Cloverbuds, the youngest 4-H members. We meet with Cloverbud Program Coordinator, Jill Brochinsky, to learn what makes this age group unique and fun.

In this episode, we discuss some of the national 4-H events available to youth members. We learn what to expect from each event, the state delegate selection process, and how to prepare members interested in applying for these trips.

This is part 2 of our Ages and Stages conversation. In this episode we discuss the benefits of combining all ages in 4-H programs and when to separate into age-appropriate groups. Be sure to listen to part 1 to better understand the needs and motivators for each age group.

In this episode we take a look at the history of the 4-H program. We explore the early history of 4-H starting in the 1890's and early 1900's. Find out how 4-H got started and what's changed (or not) in over 120 years. Learn more about 4-H history by visiting the National 4-H History Preservation Program website .

In this episode we discuss what happens in communities during major transitions. We explore the different phases and share advice for community leaders. More information and a visual of the phases can be found on the Institute for Collective Trauma and Growth .

In this episode, we discuss ways volunteers can set up for success at the start of the new 4-H year. Amelia Valente-Minervini joins the conversation to share some tips from Ocean County's volunteers and her personal experience. Be sure to listen to Start of the 4-H Program Year (Season 2 Episode 1) for more details about this time of year.

In this episode, we discuss the experience transitioning from a 4-H youth member to an adult volunteer. Hear from 4-H alumna, Shannon Glynn, on how her experience as a youth member shapes her work as a club leader.

In this episode, we talk with 4-H alum, Sean. Hear how 4-H provided him opportunities to strengthen leadership skills, practice public speaking, and pursue an interest in aerospace engineering.