Effective 4-H Volunteer Management

Abstract

This mixed methods research study gathered data from members, parents, and adult volunteers associated with the Rock County Minnesota 4-H program. The purpose of this research was to identify characteristics of volunteers and to determine possible areas needing improvement in the management of the program's volunteers. Separate questionnaires were sent to youth and adults involved with the program. The adult results were analyzed to see if any demographic variables relate to volunteer service, and to establish themes from responses regarding motivation, training, recognition, and enrollment. The youth results were used to identify the characteristics associated with effective leaders and to compare these with the adult responses. The data gathered contributes to the body of research about volunteers, and more specifically, about 4-H volunteers. Comparing this data with county demographics offers insight into potential areas to target for volunteer recruitment.