Each year, thousands of volunteers donate their time and energy to 4-H initiatives to make their communities better places to live. These volunteers will be among the millions nationwide to be spotlighted April 21-27, National Volunteer Week.

North Dakota 4-H relies heavily on volunteers in the 4-H youth development program. Volunteers serve as 4-H club leaders, project leaders, county fair volunteers, 4-H Council members and various other volunteer roles.

According to the 2024 North Central Region 4-H Volunteer Impact Study, North Dakota 4-H volunteers spend an average of nine hours per week supporting local 4-H experiences. Annually, that time is worth $3,600 per year. Examples of their efforts include organizing 4-H club meetings, leading shooting sports practices, supporting youth during community service projects, preparing youth for judging contests and many other contributions.

“Volunteers make a difference by encouraging youth to find their true spark and helping them gain life skills that lead to being ready for work and life,” says Rachelle Vettern, North Dakota State University Extension professor and leadership and volunteer development specialist. “This study shows that the impact of 4-H volunteers goes beyond the 4-H program and leads to changes in communities.”

North Dakota 4-H volunteers reported personal benefits, such as 80% of respondents reporting that they’ve gained skills to use in other roles and 72% reporting an increased confidence as leaders.

Another determination in the study was the noticeable community impact, such as 85% of respondents agreeing that their volunteering makes communities stronger and 78% agreeing that it improves community health.

The work of North Dakota 4-H volunteers is continuous. Volunteers help provide opportunities for youth to thrive through 4-H experiences. These experiences reinforce youth’s positive relationships with caring adults, strengthening communities.

For more information on the NCR 4-H Volunteer Impact Study, contact Vettern at rachelle.vettern@ndsu.edu. For more information about becoming a 4-H volunteer, contact your NDSU Extension county office.

NDSU Agriculture Communication – April 25, 2025

Source: Rachelle Vettern, 701-231-7541, rachelle.vettern@ndsu.edu

Editor: Dominic Erickson, 701-231-5546, dominic.erickson@ndsu.edu