Youth Officers

4-H club officers are elected annually in accordance with the club's constitution and bylaws. Under the guidance of the 4-H community club leader and/or the officer's advisor, officers are responsible for a particular part of the 4-H club's function. Generally, 4-H clubs have a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and sergeant at arms. However, 4-H units may have additional officers according to their constitution and bylaws. Other activities and events may be planned by a committee.

Together, the 4-H club officer team is responsible for the administration of the 4-H club and its programs. Club officers plan and carry out community club meetings. This process engages officers by encouraging them to learn experientially. The officer advisor serves as a facilitator, counselor, resource provider, and coach to the officers.

These objectives of holding an office include increased:

planning and organizing skills.
teamwork, leadership, and social skills.
communication and public speaking skills.
self-responsibility.
decision making skills.
record keeping and management skills.

Responsibilities

As an officer, you will manage the planning and implementation of the club’s programs and business. You will be a guardian of the club’s legal, financial, social, and educational responsibilities. Officers are responsible for ensuring that the club is inclusive and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, or disability.

The general duties of holding an office include:

Learn and act upon the duties of your office.
Be an active member of the board of officers.
Attend officer executive board meetings.
Attend club meetings and activities.
Lead in planning meetings and events.
Give your opinion on issues, but also listen to what others have to say.
Actively represent 4-H in your community.
Let the officer advisor know if you are unable to attend a meeting.

Club officers and officer advisors have an important responsibility to their club, the University of California, and the public. The club has educational goals for its membership, service and membership goals for the community, and fiscal and legal responsibilities to the University of California.

Resources

4-H Officer's Manual (2013)
4-H Club Program Planning Guide
4-H Choose Health Officers Guide
Civic Engagement Officer

Civic Engagement Officer Training
Healthy Living Officer Training

Officer Forms:

Treasurer's Manual (2014)
As the 4-H treasurer, you help plan the club’s budget for the year, keep all the banking and financial records for your club and help make sure that your club’s money is used responsibly, ethically and fairly. Use this manual and the forms below.

Other resources: