Accessible Version: 4‑H Volunteers

4‑H volunteers are an essential part of the program. 4‑H focuses on citizenship, leadership, and life‑skills development using a “learn by doing” educational model. Every volunteer brings valuable knowledge, experiences, and skills that can be shared with 4‑H youth. No matter your background or expertise, you can be part of the 4‑H community. As a parent, project leader, or in another leadership role, you can offer your unique talents and perspectives.

You choose the level of involvement that fits your skills and schedule. Volunteers may:

  • Lead community clubs, school‑based programs, or after‑school programs
  • Serve as a project or activity leader
  • Participate as a committee or board member, event judge, or camp counselor
  • Create community service opportunities for youth
  • Work with other adults to develop engaging programs

To ensure a strong team of volunteers for Montgomery County 4‑H, we follow the process below.

Steps to Becoming a Certified UME 4‑H Volunteer

1. Enroll in 4‑H Online

  • If you already have a family profile, go to your Member List, select Add Member, and choose New Volunteer as your volunteer position.
  • If you are new to 4‑H, create a new account.

2. References

An Adobe Sign email will be sent to the three references you listed in your 4‑H Online screening. They will complete the reference form digitally. Please let your references know to watch for an email from Adobe Sign – Anna Hamann.

3. Background Check

After you complete your 4‑H Online enrollment, the Maryland 4‑H office will send you an invitation email—usually around the 1st or 15th of the month—from TheAdvocates@sterlingvolunteer.com.

  • The background check must be completed within 30 days of receiving the email.
  • If it is not completed, Maryland 4‑H will dismiss the application for one year, and you will not be able to volunteer until onboarding is completed in the current year.
  • Check your spam or junk folder around the expected date.
  • The online portal will run a commercial criminal background check and a data‑driven check using your Social Security number.
  • The fee is $15.00, payable online by credit card.
  • Background checks must be renewed every three years.

4. Volunteer Orientation Training

You will receive a link to the 4‑H Volunteer Orientation Video after your background check and references are approved. After watching the video, complete the Orientation Survey. The 4‑H Office will receive your completion automatically.

5. Phone Interview

Email Anna Hamann to schedule your volunteer interview with the 4‑H Educator. Interviews last 15–20 minutes and may be conducted by phone, Zoom, or in person.

6. Sign Agreements

After steps 1–5 are complete, you will receive Adobe Sign documents to review and sign, including:

  • Appointment Agreement
  • Code of Conduct
  • Position Description

7. 4‑H Volunteer Handbook

Review the 4‑H Volunteer Handbook, available on the Maryland 4‑H website.

If you have any questions about this process, contact Anna Hamann at

ahamann@umd.edu