Journal of NACAA

Factors Influencing 4-H Leader Volunteer Recruitment and Retention

ISSN 2158-9429

Volume 6, Issue 2 - December 2013

Editor: Linda Chalker-Scott

Abstract

Volunteerism is fundamental to delivering quality 4-H programs, developing educational capacity, and teaching youth to volunteer. A descriptive research study was conducted to identify factors that influence volunteers to join the 4-H program and factors that affect their decision to leave. The study indicated leaders considered the 4-H program to be effective. Intrinsic motivation of benefiting the community and helping people were considered to be the persuading factors why 4-H leaders join and continue to volunteer. 4-H leaders face problems such as time commitment, children no longer involved, and burnout. 4-H leaders are persuaded to stay through ongoing trainings, continued awareness of resources and curriculum by way of newsletters, phone calls, and e-mails that meet the needs of the 4-H leaders.

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