This week is National Volunteer Week and one local organization that thrives with active volunteers is 4-H. According to Washington County 4-H and Youth Coordinator Amy Green, Washington County 4-H volunteers logged 5,716 hours last year. With the current volunteer value in Iowa at $28.88 per hour, that equates to over $165,000 of value provided locally. 

Green adds that she extends a “Thank you!” to all of those who volunteer. She explains that the 4-H program “works to model for and train youth how to be giving members of their communities.”

Washington County 4-H includes 87 club and Clover Kid leaders who hold monthly meetings and support their members throughout the year including community service learning and social outings. There are also 26 livestock superintendents who are experts in their species and provide guidance for classes, rules, shows, and more. Nine elected Extension Council members volunteer their time to make up the governing body of all of the Washington County Extension and Outreach and 4-H programs. The 24 fair board members meet monthly to plan the annual Washington County Fair. 

In addition, youth volunteer in many capacities through 4-H.