4-H Program Participant/Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct
The primary goal of the 4-H Program is to help youth develop competency in their projects, confidence in themselves and others, connections to their community and sound character. Actions by persons (parents, volunteers and 4-H’ers) involved with the 4-H Program will be consistent with the six core ethical values comprising good character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, caring, fairness and citizenship.
As a Participant/Parent/Guardian I will:
- Treat all people and property with respect, courtesy, consideration and compassion. Avoid and prevent put-downs, insults, name calling, swearing and other language or nonverbal conduct likely to offend, hurt or set a bad example.
- Keep informed about 4-H program policies and projects and read materials pertaining to the county 4-H program.
- Teach and model kindness and compassion for others. Recognize that all people have skills and talents which can be used to help others and improve the community. Teach and foster teamwork and discourage selfishness.
- Practice fair-mindedness by being open to ideas, suggestions and opinions of others. I will make all reasonable efforts to assure equal access to participation for all youth and adults regardless of race, creed, color, sex, national origin or disability. Decisions will be made fairly and treat all individuals and families with impartiality.
- Obey laws and rules as an obligation of being a good citizen. I accept responsibility for the proper treatment and care for other youth and adults, the program facilities and/or equipment.
- Demonstrate the responsible treatment of animals and stewardship of the environment.
- Not use alcohol or illegal substances (or be under the influence) while working with or participating in any part of the 4-H Program.
- Provide a safe environment for all parties involved in 4-H. I will protect those involved from sexual harassment, physical force, verbal or mental abuse, neglect, or other harmful behaviors.
I understand that disciplinary action can be taken by the County 4-H Council approved by the 4-H Youth Development Educator. A major violation of the Code of Conduct can include being banned from participation in, or representing the County in 4-H events and activities and forfeiture of 4-H funds.
4-H Parents, Volunteers and/or Youth who do not abide by the above code of conduct may receive the following consequences: Be asked to explain actions to the 4-H Council; be dismissed from an event at own expense; further disciplinary action determined by the 4-H Council, which may include: restriction from contacting 4-H families, volunteers, donors, and/or sponsors pertaining to any 4-H matter, becoming ineligible to attend any further 4-H activities, family may become ineligible to participate in the County 4-H Program, reimburse the proper entity for any property damage or for liability resulting from inappropriate actions. In the case of vandalism, the guilty party may be required to reimburse 4-H and/or the facility.
What is 4-H Age?
Here is how to determine your 4-H age:
- 4-H Age: The age of the 4-H member before January 1 of the current year.
- 4-H eligibility is determined based on 4-H age (the age of the member on December 31 of the previous year). If a birthday is on January 1, the 4-H age is the age of the member on December 31. If the member turns eight on January 1, 4-H age is seven. If the member turns nine on January 1, the 4-H age is eight.
- Clover Kid Eligibility: The first year of eligibility is 4-H age five and the last year of eligibility is 4-H age seven.
- Regular 4-H Eligibility: The first year of eligibility is 4-H age eight and the last year of eligibility is 4-H age eighteen.