Massachusetts 4-H Advisory Councils

Massachusetts 4-H has a unique system of both locally based and statewide governance councils comprised of screened 4-H volunteer members from across your county or the state. Each advisory is authorized by and serves as an organizational unit of the Massachusetts 4-H Program. Massachusetts 4-H volunteers also serve on collaborative boards of separate 501c3 organizations such as 4-H Camps, who are granted the use of the 4-H name and emblem by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through the University of Massachusetts Extension office.

Massachusetts 4-H Councils and Boards have standard statewide by-laws and well organized participatory structures and treasurer’s resources. Advisories provide an avenue for local volunteers to have a say in the governance of the Massachusetts 4-H Program.

Advisory Councils assist the regional 4-H Extension Educator, in part, by:

• Serving as a communication channel and link between local volunteers, the regional Educator, and the Massachusetts 4-H Program
• Reviewing policies and advising the Educator and Massachusetts 4-H on improvements
• Establishing committees to carry out program activities
• Raising and managing funds to support local 4-H programs or events
• Assisting in local and statewide volunteer recognition programs
• Building support and recognition for the Massachusetts 4-H program with local and state business and community governance representatives

Many dedicated 4-H volunteers who have experience with the range of 4-H programs and activities currently serve on 4-H Boards or Advisories. New volunteers are joining and bringing a new sense of excitement and possibilities for Massachusetts 4-H:

If you are a new or current 4-H volunteer with any of the following skills,

• Fresh ideas
• Public relations skills
• Multi-cultural background
  Fundraising or Financial experience
• Non-profit business skills
• Local, regional, national network of contacts
• Experience with youth development organizations

Consider becoming a Massachusetts 4-H’s board volunteer today!
Contact your regional 4-H Educator for further information.