Kings County UC Cooperative Extension

Returning Adult Volunteers

Volunteers are a key part of the 4-H Youth Development Program. By volunteering, you are helping to grow the skills of 4-H youth to be future leaders.

Volunteering in 4-H is flexible and rewarding. Share your expertise and experience with the youth and other volunteers to make things happen!

 

Eligibility

4-H Members and Volunteers must renew their membership each year to continue to participate in the 4-H program.

For projects and events that are continuing past the June 30 4-H year end (State Fair, Horse Classic, SLC), 4-H members and volunteers may continue their participation without re-enrolling.

For all 4-H activities (meetings, projects, events) starting from July 1st in the new 4-H year, members and volunteers must complete enrollment BEFORE participating.
 
Adults are eligible to apply to volunteer in 4-H if they meet the following criteria:
  • Are at least 18 years old and have project-specific content knowledge or willingness to learn and teach others.
  • Club Leaders and Chaperones must be at least 21 years old. 

 

Enrollment Steps

Enrollment for the 2025-2026 enrollment year is now open! The 4-H year runs from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Enrollment is open year round, however the recommended tome to enroll un a Community Club is July through September, and clubs typically begin their meetings for the new program year in September. 

These enrollment steps are for 4-H adult volunteers who had active enrollments in Kings County during the 2024-2025 4-H year. If you are new or have been inactive for one or more years, please see the New Volunteer Enrollment Steps. 

Step #1: Contact your Community Club Leader

Let your community club leader know you will be returning to the club again this year. Discuss with them which projects you would like to be a part of and see if they need any other volunteer support such as officer advisors, guest speakers, or event judges. 

Step #2: Enroll Online (ZSuite)
  1. Go to https://4h.zsuite.org
  2. Log in using the same Household information as previous years.
  3. Click "+Household Member" to add new individuals to the household. Their birthdate determines their role as a Youth Member or Adult Volunteer.
  4. Re-enroll members who already have a profile from previous years.
  5. Complete all enrollment sections including personal info, units, and waivers. Select the club you chose as your "Primary Unit" and sign up for at least one project.
  6. After all enrollment sections are complete, Click "Submit".
  7. The adult enrollment status will show as PENDING APPROVAL. 

Help sheets and videos can be found on the CA 4-H Resource Center Enrollment page.

Step #3: Returning Adult Volunteer Training

2025-2026 Returning Volunteer Online Training

The California 4-H Returning Volunteer Course gives you important updates on policies and best practices to keep you up to date. It focuses on CANRA guidelines and the 4-H Thriving Model for Positive Youth Development. You'll also learn about the 4-H program's commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all youth, and how you can help achieve that vision.

Length: 55 minutes  (Can be completed over multiple sessions)

  • Required Enrollment Key: Kings

Step #4: Enrollment Fees (None this year!)

There is nothing to do for this step since all Kings County 4-H youth member and adult volunteer enrollment fees are being paid for by the Kings County 4-H Sponsoring Committee for the 2025-2026 4-H year. Thank you to our generous sponsors who make 4-H free in Kings County. They have elected to cover our California 4-H Enrollment Fees which are $67 for youth members and $28 for adult volunteers.

Step #5: Wait for Approval 

Enrollment can be approved after the Kings County 4-H office confirms:

  • Submission of all enrollment forms
  • Completion of enrollment requirements

The County Director reviews and approves 4-H volunteer appointments/re-appointments once the Adult Volunteer process is complete.

  • If approved, notification of your 4-H adult volunteer appointment will be sent via email.
  • If there are any limitations on the appointment, a letter will be sent from the County Director outlining the limitations of the appointment.
  • If not approved, a letter will be sent to the application from the County Director.

Once you are approved and your membership is active:

  • Start connecting with 4-H families about your new role.
  • Participate in 4-H events and activities.
  • Take advantage of 4-H resources:
    • Skills development workshops
    • Approved curriculum to plan your projects
    • Volunteer leadership conferences
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