4-H volunteer Becca Turnquist (3rd from left) with Swift County 4-H Ambassadors |
She advises the 4-H ambassador program, giving youth opportunities to build leadership skills while representing 4-H at a variety of events and doing community service throughout the county.
"My role is to help our ambassadors accomplish their goals and stay organized with meetings. I also give mini trainings to help them be more effective leaders. Building presentations, being a good listener, and how to give back to our community are topics we've explored together."
This is not Becca's first experience with 4-H. In fact, she chose to be a 4-H volunteer because of how much she gained from the program during her own growing up years.
Becca with champion steer 2012 Swift County Fair |
There are a variety of ways caring adults can make a difference for youth in their community through 4-H. Some opportunities are long-term, like Becca’s 12-month commitment to advise an ambassador team.
“But there are also small ways of supporting youth and the learning they want to experience. It’s okay to volunteer for single events. I hope that every person who volunteers knows that, no matter your role, you are important and valuable.”
Volunteers like Becca are an essential part of 4-H. When caring adults partner with youth to explore topics and ideas they’re both excited about, great things happen. In 4-H, youth grow the skills they need to lead for a lifetime.
“I hope that 4-H continues to be a place where youth can learn and grow. I want new and different families to discover that 4-H is a great opportunity. 4-H does really good things for youth.”
When not volunteering with 4-H, Becca is a substitute teacher in the Kerkhoven Murdock Sunburg School District.
Did you know?
In a single year, over 11,000 Minnesota 4-H volunteers contribute 1 million hours to help youth learn and lead. Discover how you can get involved.
Youth in 4-H are 4 times more likely to actively contribute to their communities. Join 4-H in your community.
Building leadership skills is a big part of the 4-H experience. Learn more here.
University of Minnesota
Extension Center for Youth Development