Become a 4-H SPIN Club Volunteer

4-Hers learn about building structuresA 4-H SPIN Club is a special interest club where four or more young people learn about a topic of interest. Topics vary and include interests such as nature, heritage arts, science, photography, gardening, shooting sports, and more. SPIN clubs are led by volunteers who have a passion for learning and want to share their knowledge with young people.


Be the Spark that Inspires the Next Generation

4-H is Looking for People Like You

We are looking for adults who have a talent or interest that they are willing and able to teach to young people in local communities. We are planning now for SPIN clubs that will meet in the next three to six months.

Why Should You Become a Volunteer?

Have a positive impact on the next generation of young people in your community by sharing your experience and knowledge in a subject area you’re passionate about. Help fuel the extraordinary efforts of our youth by joining us as a 4-H SPIN club volunteer.

When and Where Will the Club Meet?

SPIN clubs are planned around the volunteer’s availability. A club meets for at least one hour, six or more times per year. Meeting dates are selected by the volunteer, based on participants’ availability. The meeting location is chosen for the type of activity and number of participants.

We would be happy to discuss opportunities for you to become a 4-H SPIN Club volunteer in your community. If this is something that interests you, please contact your local UMaine Extension county office.


SPIN Club Volunteer Role Description

You Are Needed

Share your experience and knowledge with youth to help them gain skills through a 4-H special interests (SPIN) club.

You Can Have a Positive Impact on Young People

  • Teach youth valuable life skills
  • Provide hands-on learning to 4-H SPIN Club members
  • Share your expertise with members and mentor them through their own learning experiences
  • Create a space where each young person feels valued and accepted for who they are
  • Help youth demonstrate their understanding of a topic
  • Support members as they give back to their community

Your Time Commitment

  • Participate in volunteer orientation and training
  • Coordinate a minimum of six meetings based on your availability
  • Plan learning activities and identify needed supplies
  • Discuss your SPIN Club experience with 4-H staff
  • Devote 15 to 20 hours total

Your Responsibilities as a 4-H Volunteer

  • Decide what skills the club members should learn
  • Identify safety issues and make plans to keep youth safe
  • Provide leadership and decision-making opportunities within the club
  • Guide members as they learn new knowledge and skills
  • Be a role model by accepting and valuing all members
  • Work with members to plan an event so they can demonstrate their learning to others
  • Help youth identify ways to give back to their community

How to Get Started

  • Complete the volunteer application forms, including the background check and how to reach references
  • Schedule an orientation with Extension 4-H staff

We Will Help You Help Youth

Extension 4-H staff will provide:

  • Face-to-face and online training to prepare you for your volunteer experience
  • Assistance planning learning activities
  • Insurance to cover liability and accidents
  • Assistance in materials, supplies, or equipment

Adapted with permission from University of Illinois Cooperative Extension.