MANHATTAN, Kan. – At a time when many organizations are struggling to enlist volunteers, Kansas 4-H continues to attract them.

Hundreds of 4-H volunteers in the state report that they contribute their time and talents as a way of ‘paying back’ for the benefits they received as 4-H members, but volunteer opportunities with the youth organization are not limited to former members. In fact, many 4-H volunteers say they do so because they wish they had been involved in the educational programs, said Pat Fultz, Kansas State University Research and Extension 4-H youth development specialist.

4-H volunteers are asked to complete a volunteer profile and attend orientation, during which they learn more about program philosophy, teaching methods, and successful youth development strategies, she said.

To help 4-H volunteers grow in their role as mentors, leaders, and teachers, Kansas 4-H has formed a new organization – the Kansas Association of 4-H Volunteers. The new effort will provide multi-county staff development and skill-building sessions to help volunteers better serve youth.

"The emphasis is on education. The teaching of young people – the nurturing of their skills, abilities and responsible citizenship – can make a difference in their quality of life and ours," said Fultz, who devotes her energies to 4-H youth development full time.

The educational effort for volunteers also should help them improve skills that will transfer to their personal and professional lives, Fultz said.

Officers elected to lead the new group are:

* President – Linda Henningsen, Saline County;

* President-Elect – Julie Green, Cherokee County;

* Secretary – Gwen Kramer, Jefferson County;

* Treasurer – Deb Wood, Dickinson County.

Area vice presidents are Brenda Hoobler, Atchison County (northeast Kansas); John George, Smith County (northwest); Cindy Baldwin, McPherson County (south central); Ron Jones, Miami County (southeast); and Pansy Fryman, Finney County (southwest).

For more information about 4-H programs open to students ages seven and up or 4-H volunteer opportunities, interested persons may contact their local K-State Research and Extension office.