Journal of Human Sciences and Extension (Oct 2021)

Latino Volunteerism in the 4-H Youth Development Program

  • Steven M. Worker,
  • Maria G. Fabregas Janeiro,
  • Lynn Schmitt-McQuitty

DOI
https://doi.org/10.54718/FNTY6389
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 9, no. 3
pp. 1 – 14

Abstract

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Nationally, the 4-H Youth Development Program utilizes more than 350,000 adult volunteers annually, and 25% of the nation’s K-12 students identify as Hispanic or Latino; however, there is a dearth of published literature on Latino volunteerism in the 4-H Youth Development Program. Developmental relationships, a critical component of realizing youth development outcomes, are enhanced when adults and young people share cultural values and identity markers. The Cooperative Extension System has an obligation to reach a diverse audience and ensure program participation reflects the demographics of the communities in which youth live. We review the literature on Latino volunteerism in 4-H, share what we learned implementing the 2016-2019 University of California 4-H Latino Initiative, and provide our reflections and recommendations.

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