Volunteer Corner

As a 4-H volunteer, you will be required to have a commercial criminal background check completed in order to continue in your volunteer role for 2021. As Dr. Hanson stated in his letter, “A commercial criminal background check is a standard in the majority of volunteer programs across the nation and are not designed nor intended to disrespect or to imply mistrust in our volunteers”. This background check policy is structured into several tiers depending upon your role as a volunteer. Different tiers require different levels of background checks. Please see the attached Frequently Asked Questions sheet to review the tiers. The majority of 4-H volunteers within the Washington County 4-H Program will fall into Tier 2. This tier requires a commercial criminal background check that will cost you $15.

This background check will only need to be completed once every three years. The commercial criminal background check is available online and more information on how to initiate and complete the process will be forthcoming. New volunteers will start the process on February 15 and current volunteers will begin the process on March 15, but in a staggered process. You will receive notification as to how, and when to start the process.

As promised, the UME Volunteer Background Policy Implementation informational video is ready for your viewing. Click on the link below to watch it:

https://use.vg/IduCBz

February 10 at 7:00pm

• Topic – Making the Most of the Zoom Platform

Registration - https://umd.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIldO-hqDwjE9Nlbg9wbD3GaE6B5paNBond

January 14th, 2021- Maryland 4-H Volunteers' Association General Membership meeting

Join the Maryland 4-H Volunteers' Association for their first General Membership meeting for 2021. ALL ARE WELCOME! All Certified UME 4-H Volunteers are considered members and there are NO membership fees, but the information, opportunities and support provided by the Association is beneficial to all!

Topic: Maryland 4-H Volunteers' Association General Membership Call Time: January 14, 2021 from 7:00-8:30 pm

Program Topic: Zoom Techniques for use with 4-H Meetings Join Zoom Meeting https://umd.zoom.us/j/94604103643 Meeting ID: 946 0410 3643 One tap mobile +13017158592,,94604103643# US (Washington D.C)

4-H Online is open for re-enrollment, please sign up as soon as possible, by clicking HERE.

To re-enroll, a 4-H family must log in to their existing 4-H Online profile. Reminder DO NOT create a new family or member profile.

As in 2020, Volunteer enrollment is a two-step process. Volunteers must complete BOTH:

1. Registration section of the enrollment, that collects information about the individual’s participation, AND

2. Screening section of the enrollment, that collects information relevant to the individual’s suitability to continue their Volunteer service.

If you have any questions or need assistance please contact Amy Simmons at simmons@umd.edu.

As a reminder ALL Volunteers must be actively enrolled in 4-H Online in order to meet with any youth.

The Maryland 4-H Volunteer Handbook is complete and ready for use!

Our State office has been working hard to write and review the handbook to align with the Maryland 4-H Orientation information and resources. You will NOW be able to find the handbook on the Volunteer Resource page of the state website or download in the attached file below.

This document is a great resource for new volunteers, as well as volunteers who have served for many years!

Ashley Travis

4-H Educator

ashley90@umd.edu

Amy Simmons

Administrative Assistant

simmons@umd.edu

University programs, activities, and facilities are available to all without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, religion, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, or any other legally protected class

Email: simmons@umd.edu
Website: http://extension.umd.edu/washington-county/4-h-youth
Location: 7303 Sharpsburg Pike, Boonsboro, MD, United States
Phone: (301) 791-1404
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/105405106162746/?ref=bookmarks

Unfortunately, the recent surge of COVID-19 in our community has forced us back into the telework mode. We are not able to meet with you in person at this time at our office. But the good news is that we are still here to serve you! Please give us a call or send us an email. We can even set up a video conference if you would like to be face-to-face with us virtually. Thank you for your understanding and stay safe.