By: Jessica O’Connor
The Colleton County 4-H program is actively seeking volunteers in several different capacities.
These opportunities range from working with the 4-H group that Colleton and Hampton County Youth Development Agent, Dawn Stuckey, meets with on the third Monday of each month to organizing an actual 4-H club within the program.
Volunteers complete a background check and orientation before beginning work in the program. After these steps are taken, individuals can use their own skills and experience to help youth “learn by doing.”
Most associate 4-H with agriculture related projects, but 4-H volunteers are invited to help the children learn about a variety of topics. Activities such as dog training, photography, arts and crafts, and baking/cooking are just a few examples of the type of knowledge volunteers share with 4-H members. The Colleton County 4-H program even held a crime scene investigation camp recently!
For those that have a vested interest in a certain project area within the 4-H program, the opportunity exists to create a 4-H club. After becoming cleared to volunteer, a club can be formed with a nominal $15 fee. County agent, Dawn Stuckey, can help those interested in forming a specific club complete all of the simple necessary steps.
Stuckey noted that she would especially like to see 4-H horse clubs become active in the county again. The South Carolina 4-H Horse Program contains a wealth of opportunity for those who participate. Those interested in riding and showing can take part in the state show and even advance to the Southern Regionals. Youth may also take part in competition out of the saddle through hippology, horse judging, horse bowl, and creative/communications contests.
Youth do not have to own a horse to participate, and in fact many who would like to be a part of the horse program do not. Stuckey emphasized that forming a 4-H horse club would be an excellent addition to a lesson barn’s slate of activities for this reason.
If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer or starting a 4-H club, email dstucke@clemson.edu or visit https://www.clemson.edu/extension/colleton/4-H/index.html for more information.
