4-H Operations and Best Practices

This resource was developed for OSU Employees, volunteers, clubs, advisory committees, 4-H Foundations and 4-H County Associations. It is based on the 4-H Financial Management Handbook written in 2019 and updated in 2021, 2022, & 2023. ‘The Financial Management Handbook was developed by Oregon 4-H Financial Review Team members with representatives from the offices of Extension 4-H Youth Development, OSU Extension & Engagement Fiscal Administration, OSU 4-H Foundation Fiscal Administration, and OSU Office of Audit & Compliance. Annual technical review provided by: OSU 4-H Foundation Fiscal Director, OSU Extension & Engagement Executive Director of Fiscal Operations, and OSU Extension 4-H Youth Development Director, Volunteer Manager, and Associate Director.

The purpose of this resource is to provide guidance to 4-H employees, 4-H County Associations, 4-H volunteers and 4-H clubs. This guide is designed to provide an overview of the operational structure of Oregon 4-H, clarify roles, review authorization of the 4-H name and emblem, outline 4-H financial management expectations, share best practices for effective and prudent financial accountability management, and provide links to additional forms and resources. The 4-H Operations and Best practices Guidance is reviewed annually and updated as necessary.