Frequently Asked Volunteer Questions

The following is a summary of the steps. Please contact the 4-H office at 503-821-1119 or by email

if you have any questions. There is no fee to become a 4-H

volunteer.

Volunteer Service Application:

Please fill out a Volunteer Service Application. References will be checked from the information

provided on your application (you must provide 3 references with names, address, and phone

numbers who are not family members/relatives and/or do not live with you).

Criminal Background Check:

This is conducted by the Oregon State University Human Resources Department, in cooperation

with the Oregon State Police and FBI. Our OSU Extension staff do not see any of this information.

OSU will call the Washington County office with confirmation of the background check. There is

no charge for the background check.

New Volunteer Interview and Orientation:

All new volunteers participate in a orientation session by OSU Extension County 4-H faculty. To

RSVP for an interview, call Pat Willis @ 503-821-1120 or email

During the oreintation, Pat will cover the history and vision of 4-H, positive youth development,

opportunities for continuing education, and program potential for youth.

Receive a Congratulations Letter in the Mail:

After the 4-H office has received all of your paper work (including all 3 references with positive

feedback and your criminal background check results), and you have completed the orientation, you

are ready to start your own club! A 4-H club packet will be sent to you so that you can begin! OSU

Extension 4-H staff is here to help you in every step of the process.

How do I choose which topic to involve my 4-H club?

Often volunteers will choose areas based on personal interest or the interest of club members. A

wide variety of teaching materials and assistance is available to all 4-H volunteers for leading 4-H

programs. If volunteers choose to create their own program materials or curriculum, they are

welcome to do so.

Other Questions?

Please always feel free to call, e-mail, or drop by. OSU Extension 4-H has a diverse array of

resources to help ensure kids have the most positive learning experiences possible.

Thank you for your interest in 4-H!!