Each year, thousands of volunteers in New Jersey donate their time and energy to make their communities a better place to live. These volunteers will be among the millions across the country who will be spotlighted during National Volunteer Week, from April 6 to 11.
One group that relies heavily on volunteers is the New Jersey 4-H Youth Development Program. Of the 2,400 adult volunteers involved in the New Jersey 4-H Program, 63 volunteers currently serve as club leaders, project leaders, and resource leaders in the Camden County 4-H program.
“Volunteers are the backbone of the 4-H program. They provide the guidance and support that helps 4-H boys and girls in grades kindergarten to 13 develop confidence and valuable life skills,” said Jeannette Rea-Keywood, State 4-H Agent, Department of 4-H Youth Development.
In Camden County, 4-H volunteers spend more than 15,000 hours per year organizing club activities, guiding and mentoring youth in a specific project area, assisting with 4-H fundraisers and events, or assisting with a community service project.
Art Treiman, of Cherry Hill and the founding leader of the Cherry Hill Science Explorers 4-H Club, has noted, “Getting involved in activities with your children is one of the most rewarding things you can do.”
Freeholder Jeff Nash talked about the myriad benefits to participating and volunteering for the Camden County 4-H.
“This educational program is invaluable for children and is an asset for the community,” Nash said. “I want to commend the organization and all of the volunteers that donate their time to this invaluable enterprise.
4-H volunteers across New Jersey are instrumental in carrying out the mission of the 4-H Youth Development Program of Rutgers Cooperative Extension, a unit of the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station. The 4-H program offers educational programs to all youth grades kindergarten to 13 on an age appropriate basis.
According to Camden County 4-H Agent Sharon Kinsey, “4-H volunteers spend countless hours every year contributing to the betterment of the 4-H program and to helping youth achieve their goals. Our program is stronger as a result.”
The work of 4-H volunteers is continuous. Everyday a volunteer is lending a helping hand to provide learning opportunities for the 4-H members involved in Camden County. If you would like more information on how you can become involved in the Camden County 4-H Program, please call the 4-H Office at (856) 216–7130.
