First Posted: 11/14/2013

Volunteering is one of the most rewarding jobs you can do.

Yes, volunteering does make a difference, and it is an awesome way for you to give back to the community. It is especially impactful when you are volunteering your time and talent to Robeson County 4-H youth.

Volunteers make the difference in all aspects of 4-H. They are an integral component of the 4-H Program success. The Robeson County 4-H volunteers lead clubs, assist with summer camps and help with 4-H events. There are volunteer trainings, workshops and conferences that are provided for our volunteers. Trained volunteers are the vital force in the delivery of the 4-H Programs in Robeson County.

Volunteers help our youth to make personal and academic goals and guide them on their journey to success. Our volunteers encourage our youth to participate in public speaking, presentations, and other programming that teaches and re-enforces life skills. Being a volunteer is a depiction of a bright light. When you volunteer, you are essentially a light in a child’s life. The bond of an adult volunteer and the 4-H youth is invaluable.

I know you are reading this thinking, “if you only knew what my calendar looked like,” or “my schedule is already crazy and you want me to give my time away for free?”

Yes, I’m asking you to make time, because volunteering does make a difference in the life of our 4-H youth. Volunteer leaders create a fun and safe environment where 4-H members meet to learn life skills, hands-on projects and other activities. Oh, and by the way, it’s fun for you and them.

Also, your efforts will not go unrecognized. Robeson County 4-H holds an annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet to recognize all the volunteers and all the work they do. Just a few weeks ago, about 60 volunteers took part in our event. One volunteer was even recognized for 30 years of service to our program. That is dedication and even more, love — love of youth and 4-H. Qualities all of our volunteers have. How about you?

For information, contact Wendy Maynor, Extension 4-H program assistant with North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Robeson County Center, at 910-671-3276, by email at [email protected], or visit our website at http://robeson.ces.ncsu.edu/.

North Carolina State University and North Carolina A&T State University commit themselves to positive action to secure equal opportunity regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status, or disability.

In addition, the two universities welcome all persons without regard to sexual orientation.