Guest column by Megan Thorson

First of all, I want to say thank you to all of you that volunteer each month, whether it be for 4-H, school, church, humane society, etc. Sometimes it is a thankless job. Those of us that utilize volunteers on a daily basis truly appreciate all the countless hours and time spent volunteering for the different organizations.

April was National Volunteer Month, a time when we as a country offer our collective thanks to the more than 62 million Americans — a quarter of the adult population — who give nearly 8 billion hours a year to the causes closest to their hearts. And when it comes to their hearts, it turns out volunteering is good for the volunteers. The scientific evidence keeps mounting that volunteering is good for physical and mental health. Researchers have the statistics and say the benefits are clear; for example: lower blood pressure, less stress and longer lives are all associated with volunteering.

Minnesota 4-H supports more than 11,000 adult volunteers annually who engage young people in a variety of hands-on learning experiences. In 2012, those 11,000 volunteers contributed more than 1 million hours of service (a value of $23 million). Volunteers are critical to the success of 4-H programs and making a difference in the lives of youth. There is a statewide volunteer systems team that helps support volunteers by coordinating and overseeing the work of volunteers in partnership with county staff. The 4-H organization offers volunteer development and volunteer management for our various volunteers. Through volunteer development volunteers can build knowledge and skills related to working with youth. Volunteer management includes structures and systems that create a supportive environment for volunteers.

Youth remain our top priority in 4-H and we desire to promote an environment which encourages positive youth development. All volunteers within 4-H are required to complete an application process, background check, watch a volunteer orientation and watch a safety of minors training. All of this is part of the University of Minnesota’s risk management strategy to prevent child abuse and ensure the safety of all youth participants who are involved with 4-H. This process also protects the volunteers and the University of Minnesota.

In Freeborn County we currently have more than 120 screened adult volunteers and short-term staff who work with our young people. These may be the leaders in the clubs, special leaders in the county or just helpers for certain projects one time per year. We appreciate all of our adult volunteers and want to again say thank you for your time and dedication you have given to Freeborn County 4-H.

For more information on 4-H or how you can volunteer with 4-H, call 377-5660.

 

Megan Thorson is a County 4-H program coordinator with the University of Minnesota Extension service for Freeborn County.