Semester

Fall

Date of Graduation

2011

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Type

MS

College

Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design

Department

Agricultural & Extension Education

Committee Chair

Deborah A. Boone

Committee Co-Chair

Harry N. Boone, Jr

Committee Member

Jean M. Woloshuk

Abstract

A descriptive research study was conducted to identify factors that influence volunteers to join the 4-H program and factors that affect their decision to leave. The objectives of the study were to evaluate factors persuading volunteers to become 4-H leaders, problems current 4-H leaders face in the organization, factors causing 4-H leaders to leave, attitudes toward current 4-H program, and persuasion factors for retention as 4-H leaders. The study indicated leaders considered the 4-H program to be effective. Intrinsic motivation of benefiting the community and helping people were considered to be the persuading factors why 4-H leaders join and continue to volunteer. 4-H leaders face problems such as time commitment, children no longer involved, and burnout. 4-H leaders are persuaded to stay through ongoing trainings, continued awareness of resources and curriculum by way of newsletters, phone calls, and e-mails that meet the needs of the 4-H leaders.

Share

COinS