{"id":677,"date":"2010-08-26T15:26:55","date_gmt":"2010-08-26T19:26:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/?page_id=677"},"modified":"2020-02-04T11:04:06","modified_gmt":"2020-02-04T16:04:06","slug":"guidelines-for-volunteers","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/extension.umaine.edu\/4h\/volunteers\/policies-procedure-and-guidelines\/table-of-contents\/guidelines-for-volunteers\/","title":{"rendered":"Additional Volunteer Guidelines B.2"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/a>B.2.1 Insurance for 4-H Events <\/strong><\/h3>\n

Enrolled 4-H leaders and advisors are considered an extension of the Cooperative Extension staff, and therefore University liability coverage extends to 4-H volunteers. This coverage is not accident or health coverage, but rather liability insurance<\/em> to cover legal costs (which may include medical bills) in the event the leader and\/or the University are sued for damages incurred during an approved 4-H activity. Approved 4-H activities must be open to 4-H members (even though only one member may be in attendance), have an educational component, and involve supervision of enrolled members by enrolled and certified 4-H volunteer leaders.<\/p>\n

Accident insurance<\/em> to cover the basic cost of medical treatment, such as an emergency room visit, stitches, x-rays, etc., resulting from an injury, is highly recommended. For special short-term 4-H events of a risky nature, such as 4-H horse shows or camps and 4-H shooting activities, clubs may require participating 4-H members to obtain a permission form signed by a parent or guardian, and enroll in “Special Event” accident insuranc<\/em>e coverage with a reputable company.<\/p>\n

Insurance brochures for reasonably priced one-year coverage and special events coverage are available from the county Extension office.<\/p>\n

It is recommended that 4-H leaders<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. carry their own health, accident, automobile and homeowner’s insurance;<\/li>\n
  2. be sure each 4-H member is covered by family health and accident insurance;<\/li>\n
  3. purchase additional low-cost, year-round accident insurance from a reputable company; and<\/li>\n
  4. above all, emphasize, model and teach safety in all their 4-H activities.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    <\/a>B.2.2 County Leaders\u2019 Organizations<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    The county 4\u2011H program should be designed to meet the educational needs of youth and their volunteer leaders. In many instances it is the task of 4-H leaders’ associations and 4-H advisory councils or committees to identify and meet these needs. The great variability in state and county 4\u2011H programs leads to diversity in the existence and structure of associations, councils and committees. Some counties have none while other counties have one or more. Because counties differ in their needs, their organizations will vary in size and approach. Each will tailor its procedures and activities to fit the county situation.<\/p>\n

    Although you will sometimes hear the terms “leaders’ association” and “advisory council or committee” used interchangeably, the descriptions below generalize their organizational function and are offered as guidelines.<\/p>\n

    4\u2011H Leaders’ Association<\/strong><\/h4>\n

    The county 4\u2011H leaders’ association gives volunteer leaders a voice and direct involvement in the county 4\u2011H program. It organizes and sponsors educational efforts for both leaders and 4\u2011H members. Leader association meetings provide forums in which volunteers exchange ideas, discuss mutual concerns and gain information about working with youth through 4\u2011H. Meetings are a time of learning, sharing, and fellowship. Any interested volunteer 4\u2011H leader may belong to the association, and all leaders are invited to attend association meetings.<\/p>\n

    4\u2011H leaders’ associations\u2019 roles usually include:<\/p>\n