Position Title:
New Jersey State 4-H Association Youth Representative
Purpose
The primary purpose of the Association is to assist in maintaining and expanding a strong 4-H Youth Development Program in New Jersey. The Association is comprised of adult volunteers representing each county, youth representatives from North Jersey and South Jersey, and ex-officio representatives from various organizations.
Time Commitment
Three daytime meetings per year, usually held in March, June and October on the Cook College Campus in New Brunswick. Additional time to complete other duties as needed.
Term/Appointment/Selection
North Jersey counties appoint or elect two youth to serve as representatives for a one-year renewable term. Method of selection and timeframe of term are determined by the northern regional agent. South Jersey youth representatives are elected at South Jersey 4-H Teen Conference through a process outlined in the SJTC Staff Planning Guide. Two youth are elected each year for a one-year term, the year beginning in April and ending in March, following the next SJTC. All New Jersey counties are encouraged to send youth representatives (non-voting).
Responsibilities
- Attend State 4-H Association meetings; actively participate in discussions. Prepare and present report at each meeting.
- Canvas youth in region to determine needs and opinions.
- Communicate information back to youth in region.
- Support association activities and serve on committees as appropriate.
Voting Privilege
Each region, north and south, shall appoint or elect two voting youth representatives as outlined above in “Term/Appointment/Selection.”
Qualifications
- Knowledge of the 4-H Youth Development Program.
- Understanding of and ability to communicate the needs of 4-H youth participants.
- Active involvement in county, regional and state 4-H program activities.
- Active involvement in teen leadership activities, both within and outside of the 4-H program.
Benefits
- Enhance leadership skills.
- Meet and share ideas with other youth and adult volunteers.
- Provide service to 4-H at the regional and state levels.
Resources Available
County 4-H professional staff and state 4-H staff will be available for support and assistance, and will provide appropriate communication and recognition to committee members.
Relationships
- Regional youth representatives serve as the liaison between their regions and the State 4-H Association, and are responsible for communicating information to both parties.
- County 4-H professional staff will assist representatives in arranging travel to meetings, preparing reports, completing follow-up after meetings, and fulfilling other duties. Will provide orientation to responsibilities prior to attending first meeting.
- State 4-H Program Coordinator serves as the official liaison from the Department of 4-H Youth Development to the Association, and will provide any assistance needed to youth representatives in fulfilling duties that go beyond the regional level. Will assist in providing orientation as needed.
Contact Person
Macy Compton, State 4-H Program Coordinator
Written by: Rita Natale Saathoff -- 12/92: revised 11/03