4-H leaders support youth as they learn by doing by providing guidance and opportunities for meaningful leadership roles in their 4-H club and community.

4-H leaders may be professionals employed by government extension services. They may be teachers in schools. Or volunteers in the community. Regardless of the type of 4-H leader you are, your role is critical to the 4-H movement and experience.

What are the responsibilities of 4-H leaders?
Develop a caring relationship with members.
Create a safe environment for 4-H members.
Provide opportunities for youth to build skills
Create opportunities for youth to value and practice service to others.
Allow youth to make decisions and lead.
Create an inclusive environment.
Keep up-to-date and trained.

What qualifications/skills do 4-H leaders need?
Sincere interest in the safety and well-being of youth.
Desire to facilitate and motivate youth while nurturing self-esteem, decision-making skills, responsibility, and leadership.
Successfully pass the volunteer training process.
Ability to organize information and materials and delegate responsibility.
Ability to work and communicate effectively both verbally and written.
Desire to motivate parents and other volunteers
Interest in working in partnership with youth, other volunteers and professional staff in an educational setting.
Willingness to adopt the philosophy, policies, and procedures of your 4-H organization

Finally, you don’t have to be an expert in a project topic to be a leader! By following the project resources, learning along with your members and involving others, there is no limit to the variety of 4-H clubs or projects you can run!