Pennsylvania has joined thirteen other states in utilizing a series of interactive online training modules developed specifically for 4-H volunteers.  Called E-Learning for 4-H Volunteers, theseries is comprised of four interactive online modules entitled About 4-H, Positive Youth Development, Getting Started with 4-H, and Leadership and Teaching.  The modules focus on material and resources all 4-H leaders need and provide an excellent introduction for new leaders as well as a useful refresher for current volunteers.  Because the E-Learning for 4-H Volunteers modules are available online, volunteers will be able to access them from any computer with an internet connection at any time of the day or night, making it very convenient for volunteers with tight schedules.  Upon successful completion of each module, the volunteer is able to print out a certificate of completion.  A designated Cooperative Extension staff member is notified via e-mail when a volunteer completes a module.   Those who complete the modules may return to the site at any time to review the information and resources contained in the modules.

To access the E-Learning for 4-H Volunteers modules, please contact the appropriate 4-H Educator, Program Assistant or other Extension staff member in your county to obtain the password needed for access to the modules and to answer any questions you may have.  When you have obtained the necessary password, you may log on to the course at http://4h.wsu.edu/volunteertraining/ .  We hope you enjoy this volunteer learning opportunity.

Important Notes:  Because the E-Learning for 4-H Volunteers Series is utilized by volunteers in 14 states, you may notice some minor deviations from Pennsylvania 4-H procedures within the modules.  These differences are clarified below:

1. The modules contain a reference to “family clubs.”  Pennsylvania 4-H does not encourage family clubs.
2. There is a reference to a requirement for background checks for volunteers.  Although Pennsylvania 4-H screens all volunteers, at the present time,  background checks are not  required.
3. There is a reference to “ski clubs.”  Pennsylvania 4-H does not recognize ski clubs.
4. The modules include an age range for 4-H participation of kindergarten to 19.  The Pennsylvania 4-H Policy and Resource Manual states:  

   For a youth to be considered as a 4-H member, he or she must: Be at least five years of age and not have passed their nineteenth birthday before January 1. The one exception is that a nineteen or twenty-year old can exhibit at the Pennsylvania Farm Show if he/she was enrolled as a regular 4-H member during the previous year.

Please note that completion of the E-Learning for 4-H Volunteers is a training opportunity and does not, in and of itself, guarantee your acceptance as a volunteer with Penn State Extension 4-H Programs.