The heart of 4-H beats because of our volunteers

In his book, “The Lorax,” Dr. Seuss’s main character utters the phrase, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” 
Here in Weston County, we have a whole lot of someones who care a whole awful lot about their community, youth, and our 4-H program. These moms, dads, retirees, aunts, uncles, supporters all give hours of their time amidst already busy lives and hectic schedules. 
Words of complaint will never be heard on their lips, nor a poor attitude toward lending a helping hand. When the work day is done, they do not bat an eye at the extra hours spent attending evening events, trainings, or workshops if it means helping youth rise to meet opportunity. 
They do not put themselves first, but are the first to pour their last ounce of energy into seeing our youth succeed. They know the investment they make in their community and youth today will be for the betterment of tomorrow and future tomorrows. 
These people are our superheroes, they lead by example, they are our heart, the ones who truly make the 4-H program live on. 
They are our 4-H volunteers.
Weston County is proud have 40-plus strong volunteers involved with our 4-H program, and there’s room to grow! As it is National 4-H Volunteer Week April 7-13, we wanted to spotlight them just a little more than usual to let them know they are appreciated! 
Some of our volunteers have been with us for over 20 years, and some are just beginning their first year. In the grand scheme of things, the years are not what matter, but the impact one can make in the time he/she gives to make a difference. 
4-H volunteers are a special breed of person, and they come in all shapes, sizes, ages, and walks of life. No two are ever quite the same, but that’s where the magic happens and why we love our volunteers! 
Each one of our volunteers is special and unique. Each comes with different passions, gifts and expertise, but they all want to share them with youth! 
It takes all of our volunteers together to make a program like 4-H work and give children a wide variety of hands-on learning. This includes those volunteers who are quieter and prefer to stay in the background, those who are born to lead a club, those who have a particular gift or skill to share, those who enjoy working with children, those who have big ideas, or even those who like to help just every so often at an event. 
We welcome anyone who wishes to help in any way. 
Becoming a 4-H volunteer with us is a simple process. We only require you sign up via 4HOnline.com, pass a small background check, and complete a motor vehicle records check if you wish to transport youth to events. 
All of this can be done by getting in touch with our 4-H Office via email, phone, or walk-in. 
Once you become a volunteer with Weston County 4-H, let us help you find where your passions and gifts may serve the program, or discover these opportunities for yourself! No gift is ever too small or too little to be of use.
As you consider becoming a 4-H volunteer or whether that would be a good fit for you, remember Margaret Mead’s words when she said:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” 
If you want to be part of a group of citizens committed to making the best better in this world, consider volunteering some of your time with 4-H and our youth. 
We’d love to have you.