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Roles and Requirements at 4-H Events: Supplement to the Overview of Volunteer Policies

The categories of adults who may attend local, district, state, national, and international 4-H events (including activities and programs) with Georgia 4-H may be found in the chart below. Based on the objectives and needs for an event, faculty/staff can carefully consider needs and determine which categories of attendees are permitted to attend. Regardless of the programming area, adults should only be utilized in roles consistent with their verified volunteer status.

Attendee Status	Definitions and Intended Role(s)	Required Documentation in 4-H Enrollment	Communication Regarding Attendees/Parents/Guardians (As Applicable per the Event)
Spectators (including parents who are spectating)	Anyone who is only viewing the event, without close contact with youth. Includes individuals who are representing other organizations, working as a part of their job, and not serving in a voluntary role (i.e., paid charter bus driver, hired speaker). They are not a volunteer.	No documentation is required for spectators. Nothing should be asked of this individual. They need to refrain from working with youth and/or volunteering.	As a reminder, spectators are welcome to attend the event, but they cannot be asked to help in any way. Spectators need to refrain from interacting with youth who are not their personal children.
Helpers	Volunteers who are non-custodians of youth. They’re not supervisors, not chaperones, not drivers, or do not have access to sensitive information. They may help in roles that are organized and do not include unsupervised interactions with youth, such as project judge, speaker, or scoring room helper.	Volunteer Agreement with Adult Behavior Guidelines (Options include 1. digital consent or 2. signed and initialed form).	Event helpers are invited but are encouraged to move to a screened volunteer status. All helpers will need to complete a volunteer agreement but need to refrain from: unsupervised and unorganized interactions with youth who are not their personal children, driving, and accessing sensitive information.
Screened Volunteers	Volunteers who are driving or have access to sensitive information. Volunteers who are non-custodians of youth. They are not supervisors or chaperones of youth and may not help in roles that include unsupervised interactions with youth. Roles may include driving fair entries to the fairgrounds or picking up meals for meetings.	1.)Screening application, 2.)Two positive reference responses, 3.)Background investigation and MVR (if they will be driving), and 4.)Volunteer Agreement with Adult Behavior Guidelines.	Screened volunteers are invited to support this event. All volunteers serving in this capacity will need to complete a volunteer screening procedure to include a screening application, two positive reference responses, a background investigation (and an MVR if driving), and a volunteer agreement. Volunteers need to refrain from unsupervised and unorganized interactions with youth who are not their personal children.
Screened Volunteers Working with Youth	Volunteers who are supervisors, chaperones, (possibly) drivers, and/or those who may have access to sensitive information. These are the designated custodians of youth and are organized by the local Extension program. They can engage in roles that include interactions with youth but should still practice two-deep leadership (strive for at least two adults present at all times). Roles may include club leaders, event chaperones, and/or team coaches.	1.) Screening application, 2.) Two positive reference responses, 3.) Background investigation and MVR (if they will be driving), 4.) Volunteer Agreement with Adult Behavior Guidelines, & 5.) Risk Management Training (RMT) annually	Screened volunteers are invited to this event who have screening approval and training to work with youth. Volunteers will need to complete a screening procedure that includes a screening application, two positive reference responses, background investigation (and an MVR, if driving), volunteer agreement, and annual risk management training (RMT). These volunteers can work with all youth participants at the event and will be a great asset.

 

 

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This ethics policy applies to any 4-H/FFA member planning to exhibit animals at all State Livestock Shows in Georgia. All classes of livestock offered at the livestock event are included: Cattle (Beef and Dairy), Goats, Sheep, Swine, and any other livestock classes offered. This “Georgia 4‐H/FFA Livestock Program Ethics Policy” will be enhanced with additional rules and guidelines which individual fairs and livestock shows adhere to on the local, county, state, regional, and national levels.

4-H and FFA livestock project exhibitors are under the supervision of an Agricultural Education Teacher or County Extension Agent who serves as the advisor for that project. The Livestock Shows of Georgia support the educational content and leadership provided by the Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and the Georgia Agriculture Education Department. Also, the Georgia Livestock Shows fully support the administrative authority of Agricultural Education Teachers and County Extension Agents to certify the fulfillment of all validation protocols and appropriate paperwork between the exhibitor, Georgia 4-H / Georgia FFA, the livestock shows and the supervising educator. Exhibiting livestock is a privilege, and exhibitors must comply with this document and respect the authority granted to his/her supervisor.

The following practices or procedures are unacceptable and are defined as being deceptive, fraudulent, unethical, and inhumane in the care, fitting, preparation and showing of all classes of livestock. The use of any illegal drug is prohibited. Any practice used to alter the appearance of an animal entered in livestock events is prohibited. Proof of any animal being subjected to illegal and/or unethical practice(s) and/or procedure(s) described herein subjects the animal to immediate disqualification. If a violation is found of any of the following rules, this may result in immediate disqualification.

The following is a listing of rules all 4-H/FFA exhibitors must follow to enter livestock at organized competitive events.

1. Exhibitors must be bona fide members of a 4-H Club or FFA Chapter in the state of Georgia and care for their animals under the direct supervision of a County Extension Agent or Agricultural Education Teacher. Exhibitors must be enrolled in, and attending, public or private and/or home school elementary or secondary schools in Georgia. Exhibitors must meet the age requirements to be eligible to compete in Georgia 4-H/FFA State Livestock Shows.

2. All exhibitors must have viable proof of ownership available to prove the length of time animals have been owned. Market and Breeding Animals must be owned and under exhibitor’s daily care by the following deadline dates: August 1 – All State Show Market Lamb & Goat. November 1 – State Show Breeding Heifer, Market Steer, Market Heifer and Commercial Dairy Heifer. December 5 – State Market Hogs, Breeding Ewes and Breeding Does; to be eligible to participate at any State Livestock Shows within Georgia. For registered breeding animals, the official ownership date is the date reflected on the registration papers. This date is the specific date for each breed of record as recognized by the validation program. (Individual show rules may determine ownership requirements for non-market animals.) Registered breeding livestock must show the exhibitor as the sole owner of the animal on the breed association papers or certificates. Breeding animals with additional registration papers within the breed association of validation record or in another breed association may be evaluated for multiple ownership. If additional registration papers are found active within an association indicating ownership information conflicting with the exhibitor’s sole ownership designation, the breeding animal may be considered multiple owned and subject to disqualification.

3. To gain the life skills developed through the livestock projects, exhibitors must be closely engaged in the feeding, maintenance, training, grooming and overall welfare of his/her animals. Exhibitors are responsible for providing the primary and continuous daily care of livestock projects throughout the validation period. 4-H and FFA livestock project exhibitors are under the supervision of an Agricultural Education Teacher or County Extension Agent who serves as the advisor for that project. Third party involvement interfering with the County Extension Agent and Agricultural Education Teacher’s ability to properly supervise the livestock project may result in the disqualification of all state livestock projects. Livestock projects must be raised at the physical address of online entry. Prior approval must be granted by the respective State Organization designee of the appropriate organization that the 4-H or FFA member belongs to in the event the animal will be outside the direct care of the exhibitor. Failure to notify the supervising Agricultural Education Teacher/County Extension Agent and the appropriate State Organization designee of the previous may result in the disqualification of all state livestock. By signing this document, the exhibitor and parent/guardian, recognize his/her responsibilities for the primary and continuous care of livestock projects throughout the feeding period and hereby authorize the designated representatives and/or supervising Agriculture Education Teacher/County Extension Agent the right to inspect your livestock project(s) along with any other state livestock projects on premises at any time during the feeding period with or without prior notice. Any exhibitor in violation of the primary and continuous daily care rule is subject to disqualification.

4. Any method used to misrepresent the age of an animal for a class in which it is shown is deceptive and considered a violation of the rules and guidelines.

5. Showing an animal for another individual by claiming ownership in order to show in a specific livestock class or event is prohibited. False ownership is a violation of the rules and guidelines.

6. Surgery, injection, oral or insertion of foreign material under the skin and/or into the flesh of an animal to change the natural contour, conformation or appearance of an animal’s body is illegal. This includes but is not limited to injection of gas, air, oil, or other foreign substances; cutting/tearing of the hide/underneath the hide or removal of tissue in any attempt to alter the physical appearance of the animal; numbing or “deadening” an animal’s tail; cutting tendons of an animal; using foreign substances to build or cosmetically re-shape feet (this does not include medically necessary treatments for injured hooves or feet); as well as “twining” which includes the attachment of hair or hair substances (i.e. baling twine, cloth, fiber, etc.)

7. The use of unethical fitting, showing and/or handling practices or devices compromising animal welfare shall not be tolerated.

8. Livestock exhibitors must adhere to the Georgia Policy on Drug Use and Testing.

9. Livestock exhibitors will be held accountable for each species in which they exhibit as a livestock project. Livestock exhibitors will also be held accountable for the rules and guidelines for each livestock show in which they exhibit at the species State Livestock Show.

10. The Administration of the Georgia 4-H and/or FFA Programs reserve the final and absolute right to interpret these rules and to settle and determine all matters, questions, and differences in regard thereto, or otherwise arising out of or connected with or incident to “Georgia 4-H/FFA Livestock Program Ethics Policy”.

Any violation of the “Georgia 4-H/FFA Livestock Program Ethics Policy” and/or associated guidelines, as well as specific rules and regulations as designated by individual fairs and livestock shows may result in disqualification and/or probationary status and/or loss of eligibility for future participation in organized livestock competition. Possible civil penalties may be imposed by the proper authorities based on evidence provided by the livestock show of exhibitors in violation of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act/or the animal mistreatment, neglect, and abandonment laws that apply on the local, state, and/or national levels. All rule violations will be dealt with on an individual basis by the respective State Organization and/or appropriate livestock show officials.

I, the parent/guardian, and exhibitor, by signing the entry form, am verifying that I have read the “Georgia 4-H/FFA Livestock Program Ethics Policy” and understand the consequences of and penalties involved for illegal, unethical, inhumane, and unfair practices in livestock competition. I am also verifying knowledge that my family and I may be prohibited from future participation in organized programs in the State of Georgia and could face possible criminal prosecution and/or civil penalties if implicated in any of the afore mentioned acts.

Any violation of the “Georgia 4-H/FFA Livestock Program Ethics Policy” and/or associated guidelines, as well as specific rules and regulations as designated by individual fairs and livestock shows may result in disqualification and/or probationary status and/or loss of eligibility for future participation in organized livestock competition. Possible civil penalties may be imposed by the proper authorities based on evidence provided by the livestock show of exhibitors in violation of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act/or the animal mistreatment, neglect, and abandonment laws that apply on the local, state, and/or national levels. All rule violations will be dealt with on an individual basis by the respective State Organization and/or appropriate livestock show officials.

I, the parent/guardian, and exhibitor, am verifying that I have read the “Georgia 4-H/FFA Livestock Program Ethics Policy” and understand the consequences of and penalties involved for illegal, unethical, inhumane, and unfair practices in livestock competition. I am also verifying knowledge that my family and I may be prohibited from future participation in organized programs in the State of Georgia and could face possible criminal prosecution and/or civil penalties if implicated in any of the afore mentioned acts.

The 2023-2024 Georgia 4-H/FFA Livestock Program Ethics Policy is used in addition to the 2023-2024 Georgia 4-H and FFA State Livestock Show Rules and Regulations.
Adapted from the Texas 4-H/FFA Livestock Program Ethics Policy.

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ARTICLE I – Aims and Purposes

Section 1.

The Georgia 4-H Advisory Committee holds the following as its aims and purposes in its vital role in the development and implementation of 4-H programs in this state:

A. To advise The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Cooperative Extension Service, on behalf of the citizens of Georgia, in the planning of 4-H programs which meet the needs of Georgia youth and in developing Extension curricula which enhance the 4-H partnership with the formal educational system.

B. To conduct liaison activities in support of the Georgia 4-H Foundation, including but not limited to identification of prospective donors; developing plans for keeping donors informed about and involved in 4-H activities; assisting with 4-H budget development; nominating donors for special recognition; and recruitment of new donors.

C. To assist the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences/Cooperative Extension Service, in planning for the maintenance and improvement of existing 4-H facilities, as well as to determine need and engage in long range planning for development of additional facilities.

D. To aid in communicating to the state at large and its leadership the value and accomplishments of 4-H programs in Georgia and the need for increasing emphasis upon 4-H and Youth Development Programs.

Section 2.

As a group which serves the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences/Cooperative Extension Service, this Committee subscribes to and supports the aims and purposes of these entities and shall engage in no activity for pecuniary gain; nor shall this Committee engage in any activity which violates the commitment to non-discrimination of either of these bodies.

Article II-Membership

Section 1.

Membership on this Committee shall be by invitation extended to Georgians who support the aims and purposes of the Committee.

Section 2.

The Committee shall consist of approximately 50 members, subject to determination by the Membership Subcommittee and approval by the membership.

Section 3.

Membership on this Committee shall be for a term of up to three years, subject to reappointment. The Dean and Director of the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the Associate Dean for Extension, the State 4-H Leader and the Associate State 4-H Leader shall be Ex-officio members. Representatives of supporting organizations shall be appointed as regular members of the Committee as vacancies occur. One third of the membership will be elected each year.

Article III – Officers

Section 1.

The affairs of this Committee shall be governed by a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson and Secretary, elected from the membership.

Section 2.

These officers shall have the duties and functions normally associated with
such offices.

Section 3.

Officers shall serve two year terms, which begin and expire at the fall committee meeting. Meetings shall be held quarterly.

Article V – Election of Membership

Section 1.

Membership Elections shall occur each year at the fall meeting, except in
the case of an election to fill a Chairperson’s unexpired term.

Section 2.

Unexpired terms of Vice Chairperson or Secretary shall be filled by appointment of the Chairperson. The Committee shall ratify such appointment at the next meeting. The unexpired term of a Chairperson shall be filled by special election after nominations from a subcommittee appointed by the Vice Chairperson.

Section 3.

The Executive Board shall name a nominating subcommittee at the last meeting prior to the fall meeting in years when the terms of the officers are to expire.

Article VI – Voting and Quorum

Section 1.

Members who have been duly invited and attend shall constitute a quorum of the Advisory Committee or any of its subcommittees.

Section 2.

The vote of a majority of those present shall be the vote of the membership of this Committee or any of its subcommittees.

Article VII – Meetings

Section 1.

This committee shall hold at least two meetings per year.
A. One in the spring, subject to the call of the Chairperson and the State 4-H Leader.
B. One in the fall, subject to the call of the Chairperson and the State 4-H Leader.
C. Additional meetings as needed shall be called by the Chairperson and the State 4-H Leader.

Section 2.

Meetings of the Executive Board shall be subject to the call of the
Chairperson.

Article VIII – Subcommittees

Section 1.

Ad hoc subcommittees shall be appointed by the Chairperson as in his/her judgement appropriate for terms not to exceed his/her own office.

Section 2.

Standing subcommittees shall consist of those named on the attached list.

1. Membership Subcommittee. This group shall consist of the Chairperson of the Advisory Committee, State 4-H Leader, and three other members appointed by the Chairperson. The Membership Subcommittee shall review the existing membership and recommend reappointment where they deem appropriate in addition to recommending replacement members or additional members. Their recommendations shall be subject to approval of the Executive Board and confirmed by the total membership.

2. Education Subcommittee. This group shall be appointed by the Chairperson, with no limit on number, to carry out those aims and purposes described in Article I, Section 1a.

3. Donor Relations Subcommittee-Fund Raising and Special Events. This group shall be appointed by the Chairperson, with no limit on number, to carry out those aims and purposes described in Article 1, Section 1b. (Possible further description: To assist the Executive board and the State 4-H Office in securing additional funds for the Georgia 4-H program.)

4. Facilities subcommittee. This group shall be appointed by the Chairperson, with no limit on number, to carry out the aims and purposes described in Article I, Section 1c. This group may be further subdivided by the Chairperson to allocate subcommittee responsibilities by individual camp.

5. Communications Subcommittee. This group shall be appointed by the Chairperson, with no limit on number, to carry out the aims and purposes described in Article I, Section 1d. Additionally, this group shall assist members of the State 4-H staff in developing methods to retain 6th graders in the 4-H program and seek ways to better provide services in the Urban area.

The Chairperson shall appoint these subcommittees, subject to the approval of the Executive Board.

Article IX – Revisions and Amendments

Section 1.

These operating procedures may be revised or amended on the vote of a quorum of the Advisory Committee at any of the regular meetings.

Can’t meet with people in-person for a while? Don’t worry, your Georgia 4-H Ambassador activities don’t have to stop. Now is the time to get creative and explore some other ways to share your knowledge and skills with your club, your community, your county, and your world!

Ideas for Completing Sharing Activities

Before you try out any of these ideas, get in touch with your 4-H leader to plan these sharing opportunities. They will be happy to brainstorm ideas with you! Federal law prohibits anyone under 13 years old from creating online accounts, so be sure you are following all the rules, terms, and policies of any social media/sharing platform(s) you are use. Platforms can include, but are not limited to, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, WordPress, Blogger, etc.

Lights, Camera, Action!

You don’t have to be an award winning film maker to make videos documenting activities similar to those you would do in person! Use your phone to film short educational videos, including how-to videos for STEM and Healthy Living Activities. Ask your 4-H leader if there is anything they need help with! You could collaborate with your 4-H leader to help create content for digital lessons, post your videos on social media, or even go live on Facebook or Instagram! You may also consider creating a YouTube Channel. This personal channel would be a place for you to upload and share any videos you create.

Wow Them with Words

Ask your 4-H leader if you can write a column for your county’s 4-H newsletter. You would want to keep the column short – perhaps share an interesting fact or two, why the information is important and relevant to readers, and a credible source where people can find more information. Also, if the paper allows you to include a photo, please do so! Photos draw readers in – just make sure you provide a nice, clear photo of people in action.

You may want to consider starting your own 4-H ambassador blog! A blog (short for web log) is a journal where you share text, photos, and/or video clips. WordPress and Blogger are two common blogging platforms. Many times, blogs teach people how to do something or document an experience. Some professional bloggers choose to share recipes, the steps involved in making/doing something, etc.

Be a Positive “Influencer”

Use your social media channels to post positive, credible information about your ambassador content area. Graphic design programs (such as Canva) allow you to create posts that are specifically formatted/sized for different social media platforms. This could be a way to share fun/interesting facts in a quick way. If you aren’t sure where to find credible information, refer back to your ambassador book, check out some of the sources below, or check with your 4-H leader. If in doubt, do not post information from questionable sources!

Exhibits

Many fairs, festivals, and even some 4-H events allow people to share exhibits. Consider working on your exhibit(s) now – grab some poster boards, construction paper, glue sticks, and get to work! Consider posting a photo of your exhibit online (maybe social media or your blog) to share with people instantly!

Fun with Family!

You may be spending a lot of time with your family – why not share what you know with them? They may have just become your best in-person audience, and they may even be able to help you with your video, written, or social media ideas! Practice on your family before you livestream a presentation.

Learning and Activity Resources:

STEM Resources

National 4-H Council – STEM Lab: National 4-H Council’s STEM lab offers over 20 free STEM-inspired activities for families. Each activity requires minimal supplies (most items are common, household goods), have easy-to-follow instructions, and can be completed in less than an hour!

National 4-H Council – National Youth Science Day: Since 2008, National 4-H Council encourages youth to complete the National Youth Science Day challenge each fall. Past challenges including supply lists,
instructions, and youth and facilitator guides are available for download. Depending on the challenge, some supplies are easy to obtain, while others may be more difficult.

NASA – GLOBE Observer: NASA’s Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment (GLOBE) Observer program allows participants to contribute data to civic science projects about clouds, mosquito habitats, land cover, and trees. After downloading the free app, participants observe natural settings and share their findings with NASA scientists.

Scientific American – Bring Science Home: Scientific American is the oldest continually published magazine in the US. In addition to videos, podcasts, and blogs, the “Bring Science Home” online section contains science activities for youth ages 6-12 that require few supplies and be completed in 30 minutes.

Extreme Event: Extreme Event is a role-playing game that teaches about community resilience during natural disasters (flood, hurricane, or earthquake). The kits were developed by the National Academy of Sciences’ Koshland Science Museum (now called LabX).

Design Squad: Design Squad Global by PBS Kids is an online program for middle school students to solve problems by using the engineering design process. Each week, the website is updated with challenges, videos, and activities.

Healthy Living Resources

National 4-H Council- 4-H Healthy Living Activity Guide: Download the 4-H Healthy Living Activity Guide for 30 hands-on, educational activities to help your child live a happy, healthy life.

MyPlate: Your go-to source for info about MyPlate, food groups, and dietary recommendations.

MyPlate Kid’s Place: MyPlate Kid’s Place includes games, videos, songs, and activity sheets to help kids learn about food, nutrition, and physical activity.

Food Science Activities For Kids: Penn State University offers a list of easy, hands-on activities to help kids learn about Food Science.

UGA Extension’s FoodTalk.org: Food-talk includes simple recipes, as well as many quick and easy instructional videos. Get the whole family involved in cooking with foodtalk.org.

FoodHero: FoodHero, from Oregon State University, offers kid-approved recipes, cooking videos, activity sheets and coloring pages.

Fight BAC: The Partnership for Food Safety Education’s Fight BAC!® for Kids section includes ideas and fun activities for kids that teach them about the basics of safe food handling.

Information Resources

Data and/or statistics can be used to demonstrate the importance of your Ambassador work. Here are some excellent resources for collecting data about your community and state:

American Fact Finder – Factfinder for the Nation or https://data.census.gov/

GeorgiaDATA, Georgia’s Central Data Repository – https://georgiadata.org

National Center for Education Statistics-https://nces.ed.gov/datalab/index.aspx

Annie E. Casey Foundation Kids Count Data Center – http://datacenter.kidscount.org/

Southern Rural Development Center Data – Home | Southern Rural Development Center

Also, we want to make sure that you utilize credible sources of information to educate yourself and others about any topic. When we say “credible,” what we mean is that the information comes from sources that are high quality and trustworthy. When you use credible sources, you demonstrate and build trust with your audience, which greatly enhances the effectiveness of your message. The highest quality research is always built on another high-quality research. To that end, please check out the following sites which have additional info, videos, etc., to help you better understand how to evaluate a source’s credibility:

University of Georgia – “Finding Reliable Sources”

University of Kansas Libraries – “Evaluating Sources for Credibility”

University of Idaho “Engl102 Library Research Unit Guide for Students”

Dean’s Award interviews are a formal interview experience for competitors who received high scores on their portfolios. 4-H’ers are judged, among other things, on presence, ease, ability to answer questions, knowledge gained, and the quantity, quality, and variety of project work done by the 4-H’er over their career. Look for evidence of growth and development from their starting point to where they are today as a youth experiencing and participating in the 4‐H program.

Scoring Criteria

4-H’ers will be asked questions related to their portfolio as well as questions that require them to analyze and evaluate their project area work over their 4-H careers. 4-H’ers are scored based on the following criteria:
• General Appearance: Posture, Appropriate Dress, Visible Distractions 5%
• Organization and Delivery: Methods and Steps Used in Presentation 15%
• Experience Shared in Project Work: Quantity, Quality and Variety 30%
• Experience in Helping and Leading Others 20%
• Skills and Knowledge Gained from Experiences 15%
• Confidence, Creativity and Self-concept Exhibited and Shared: 15%

Example Interview Questions

Judges may use these questions or create their own.
• How did you select this category for Dean Awards?
• What is your goal with your project work?
• What do you hope to accomplish with your project work?
• What have you learned from your experiences in this 4-H Project Work?
• Where did you learn the most about your project? Through what activities?
• How have you helped others in your community through this project?
• How have you applied what you have learned for the betterment of your community?
• Did you ever get discouraged in your project work? What kept you from being your discouraged?
• How did you manage time for this project work in relation to school and other activities?
• How are you using these skills in everyday life?
• What is the value of the skills you have gained through 4-H Project Work?
• How will you transfer these skills to your job/college and /or your future adult life?
• What are your future plans in terms of this project?

Understanding the Dean’s Award Scoring

The Dean’s Award portfolio is a cumulative record of a 4-H’er’s entire career, from elementary school through high school. While every student’s journey is different, successful portfolios clearly demonstrate a “building block” effect, showing how knowledge and leadership have grown more complex and impactful over the years.

The 5 Core Scoring Criteria

To succeed, your portfolio should address these five key areas:

1. Clear Description of 4-H’er (8 points)

Judges look at your Cover Letter and the overall tone of your portfolio to understand who you are.

• What to show: A clear sense of your personality, your current standing in your 4-H career, and a summary of your primary achievements in your chosen project area.

2. The 4-H’er’s Experience (15 points)

This section focuses on your personal journey and future trajectory.

• What to show: How 4-H has guided your path, impacted your life, and shaped your future decisions. You may also include experiences from other organizations that have contributed to your expertise in your 4-H project area.

3. Project Work (37 points) – Highest Weight

This is the most critical section, primarily found in your two pages of accomplishments.

• What to show: Evidence that you have become an “expert” in your project area. Focus on learning activities such as workshops, judging events, tours, awards, and hands-on experiences where you developed specific technical skills.

4. Sharing and Helping (25 points) – Second-Highest Weight

Judges look for how you have used your expertise to benefit others.

• What to show: Clear documentation of teaching and leading. Examples include facilitating workshops, writing for newsletters, leading a project club, giving presentations, or creating exhibits. Sharing can be direct (teaching a class) or indirect (improving the lives of others through your project work).

5. Reliability, Layout, and Accuracy (15 points):

This score is based on the professionalism and honesty of your presentation.

• What to show: * Reliability: Your letters of support should affirm your honors and awards.
– Accuracy: Ensure you are honest about your specific role in group projects and the actual impact of your work.
– Layout: The portfolio should be visually appealing, easy to follow, and clearly highlight your top priorities without making the judge search for them

What Makes a “Strong” Portfolio?

Beyond the points, the highest-ranking portfolios consistently demonstrate these four qualities:
• Quality: Work that is meaningful and well-executed.
• Quantity & Impact: A high volume of activity is good, but showing a “big impact” is even better. Don’t just list numbers; show how those numbers changed things.
• Personal Growth: Examples of how your activities helped you learn and develop as a person.
• Variety and Progression: Evidence that your work has evolved. What you did in 5th grade should look different from what you are doing in 12th grade, showing a clear increase in knowledge and responsibility.

A Note on the Judging Process

Think of your portfolio like a professional resume. Judges review portfolios to find the candidate best suited for the “position” of a Dean’s Award winner. They look for consistency, growth, and a professional presentation that makes your achievements stand out immediately.

Project Areas

• Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
• Civic Engagement
• Communications and the Arts
• Family and Consumer Sciences
• Leadership
• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)

Objectives

1) Encourage participation in areas fundamental to the mission of 4-H and the University Colleges.
2) Recognize youth who have excelled at a broad spectrum of activities over a sustained period of time.
3) Improve the participant’s resume preparation and interview skills.
4) Recognize youth for achievement in agricultural, environmental, family sciences, civic engagement, leadership, and STEM.
5) Provide an opportunity for youth who have already won state in project achievement to continue their 4-H competition.
6) Provide positive learning experiences and awards for older 4-H youth.
7) Develop leadership, communication, character, and good citizenship values.
8) Develop an appreciation and understanding of agriculture, the environment, family sciences, and leadership.

Eligibility

• Grade: Participant must be an active 9th, 10th, 11th, or 12th grader during the current year.
• Exclusions: No previous Dean’s Award winner is eligible to compete, even if in a different project area. Previous state winners in other 4-H projects/events are eligible.
• Each county may submit as many applicants and entries in the Dean’s Awards projects competition as they wish.
• Entries: Counties may submit as many applicants as they wish. 4-H’ers may enter only one project area per year.

Portfolio Specifications

• Scope: The portfolio must be cumulative, covering your entire 4-H career.
• Format: Single PDF upload; 8.5 x 11-inch white paper.
• Medium: Handwritten or typed in black ink. Color ink is not permitted.
•  Technical: Minimum 10-point font. Minimum 0.5-inch margins on all four sides for the cover letter and accomplishment pages.
•  Layout: Information on one side only; the back side of all pages must be blank.
•  Integrity: 4-H’ers must complete their own work. Only use approved assistance; properly cite sources to maintain academic integrity.

Portfolio Content & Order

1) Cover Sheet: Official Dean’s Award cover sheet; printed, signed, and included as the first page.
2) Cover Letter (1 Page): Addressed to “Dear Project Judge” and signed. May address any information, time, or future goals. No artwork, pictures, or clip art.
3) Accomplishments (2 Pages): A presentation of the 4-H’er’s cumulative work over their entire 4-H career. Computer-generated bullets are allowed. No artwork or photos
4) Supporting Material (2 Pages): Placed on one side of the page only. No shingling (all items must be adhered directly to the page).
5) Reference Letters (2): Letters should be affirmations of the 4-H’er’s cumulative project work.

Interview & Selection

• Finalists: Only five finalists per category will be invited for an interview.
• Tie-Breaking: Rankings determined first by Project Work, then by Sharing and Helping, and finally by the Description of Experience.
• Interview Judges: Finalists interview with experts, scientists, and educators during State 4-H Council.
• Interview Format (10 minutes total):
– 3–5 Minutes: Verbal presentation/discussion of accomplishments (Seated, no visuals allowed).
– 5–7 Minutes: Question and answer session with the judges.
•Attire: Professional attire is required.

Awards and Recognition

• First Place Winners: * Master 4-H’er Status.
– A $500 scholarship
– Recognition on 4-H Day at the Capitol
• Medallions: First, second, and third place in each area receive a commemorative medallion

We are so excited that you plan to audition for Clovers & Co.! It’s hard to believe that we are about to begin the 45th year of this Georgia 4-H Performing Arts group. During this time, Clovers & Co. has established itself as the top 4-H performing group in the nation. The excellence of the program is a direct result of the outstanding young people who audition for the group each year!

Important Dates at a Glance

Tuesday, May 12: Clovers & Co. applications due by 11:59 PM in Qualtrics survey.
Saturday, May 23: Auditions held at Fortson 4-H Center from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Saturday, May 30: Auditions held at Houston County Extension Office from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Friday, June 5: Auditions held at Rock Eagle 4-H Center from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Application Information

All 4-Hers (4th-11th grades) are eligible to audition. 4-H’ers who have graduated from high school or will graduate in 2026 are ineligible to audition. Applications are due by 11:59 PM on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. This is a firm deadline. All applicants must complete the Question Pro Clovers & Co.  Application, linked below. County Extension Staff will receive a copy of the completed application.

Clovers & Co. Application

In addition to the application, a signature page must be submitted by the applicant’s County Extension office. This signature page requires a signature from the 4-H’er that is applying, their parent/guardian, and their county 4-H leader, with all parties agreeing that they have met and discussed the responsibilities required of Clovers & Co. cast members.

Audition Dates and Preparation

Participation in Clovers & Co. is limited. All auditions are limited to two minutes. Group auditions are not accepted. Important: if you plan to audition for more than one area (such as band and dance), please split your audition and use approximately one minute for each talent.

In-person auditions are required for both new and returning cast members. 

All 4-H’ers must choose one of the following dates/locations for in-person audition.

Saturday, May 23, 2026
Fortson 4-H Center, Ms. Regena’s School House
10:00am – 2:00pm
Must check in by 1:00pm

Saturday, May 30, 2026
Houston County Extension Office, Multipurpose Room
Saturday, May 30, 2026
10:00am – 2:00pm
Must check in by 1:00pm

Friday, June 5, 2026
Rock Eagle 4-H Center, Barkuloo-Rich Building
Friday, June 5, 2026
11:00am – 3:00pm
Must check in by 2:00pm

In-person auditions are conducted on a first-come, first-serve basis. There may be a wait depending on the time you arrive. We ask that participants arrive by the listed check-in times. Auditions will continue until all registered 4-H’ers have auditioned. 4-H youth and their families are responsible for their expenses and travel arrangements for auditions.

Suggestions For Preparation

· Vocalists: Pick your very best performance song. Use a vocal track or sing a cappella. Do not sing along with the original artist. Pick a song within your vocal range that allows you to stay on key and maintain pitch . Please bring your performance track/music file on a jump drive.
· Instrumentalists: Pick a performance piece that you play well. All instruments are welcome to audition. Clovers & Co. will have pianists, percussionists, guitarists, string instruments, horns, and other instruments that work well with the planned show. Seek to demonstrate skill and variety. A piano is furnished, but you will need to bring any other instruments you wish to audition with.
· Dancers: Select a routine that you perform well. Make sure it illustrates your technique, performance quality, and the styles of dance that you have proficiency in. Seek to demonstrate skill and variety. Please bring your performance track/music file on a jump drive. NOTE: if performing tap, clogging, or en pointe, please pair an additional style of dance (jazz, contemporary, etc.) , so that we may see the breadth of your
technique. One minute per style.
· Production Crew: No interview/live audition is necessary. Please answer each question from the application with 3-5 sentences. Stage hands are expected to arrive early and stay late for shows to load/ unload the truck or Clovers storage room. They also prepare the set at each show, move risers and props onstage during the show, as well as pack up after the performance. Some of the job is behind the scenes and includes assisting with lighting as well as numerous other duties. You will also assist with moving props on and off stage during the performance.

Your Commitment

Cost to cover Clovers & Co. membership and rehearsal dates will be approximately $250.00 per cast member, payable at the first rehearsal weekend. There is also a $55.00 fee for Clovers & Co. costumes. Financial assistance is available.

All 4-H’ers selected will be asked to sign a commitment form for the shows scheduled for the year.

Full cast rehearsals will be held at Rock Eagle 4-H Center on July 31-August 2, 2026 and August 15-16, 2026.

Selected participants are required to be at these rehearsals. There will also be a one-day band rehearsal prior to the full cast rehearsals on July 30, 2026.

Travel arrangements to and from rehearsals and shows is the responsibility of the 4-H’er and not the responsibility of the County Extension staff.

Note: Clovers & Co. conducts annual auditions for all performers and Tech Crew. Special recruitment beyond the audition process may be required to complete a show’s cast.

At the State Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging Contest, there will be a
new segment added to the competition called Group Think. The purpose of
Group Think is to help you develop the skills you will need when the decision
to be made is no longer an individual decision, but rather one that needs to
be determined by a group. In its simplest form, group decision-making can
be described in five steps:

1. Determine the issue or problem. State the facts.
2. Examine options and solutions to the problem.
3. List the personal or social goals (or criteria) bearing on the problem.
4. Evaluate the alternatives according to the goals or criteria.
5. Make a decision based on the evaluation.

When making decisions, it is important to consider and evaluate more than
one course of action. Therefore, part of the Group Think process is to develop
many options for “solving” the situation. Alternatives often include personal
values. The Group Think helps you be aware of your value preferences and
the value preferences of others. You then learn how these similarities and
differences intersect, and how the group can work to make decisions that
include the most desirable outcomes for all involved.

Group Think Structure

Teams have 10 minutes of processing time. A guideline for using this time is:
• 3 minutes to read and think through the situation or problem
• 7 minutes to discuss and begin making decisions
• It is not required, but it is often helpful to use a Product Comparison Sheet. The Product Comparison Sheet helps the team keep notes for the evaluation of the criteria vs. the suggested alternatives. It may also be helpful during the team presentation.
• In the discussion, the team should cover these five decision-making steps:

1. State the situation or problem.
2. List the alternatives found in the situation or products and add your own options as determined necessary.
3. List the criteria stated in the case study and add other criteria as determined.
4. Evaluate the alternatives based on the criteria.
5. Select the best choice(s) for the situation and explain.

• Don’t limit the ideas for solutions to just a few. Think creatively and come up with many alternatives.
• As a team, begin planning the presentation to the judge(s).
• Judges will be listening to what is said and watching the group dynamics.
• Teams will be warned when they have 2 minutes left of their discussion time.
Each team will have the opportunity to present their final statement. The presentation should be no longer than 2 minutes. The presentation should include an overview of the five decision-making steps, including the best choice or final decision.

Group Think Example Score Sheet

Team Participation (40 Points possible)

Participation: All team members are actively engaged and participate (1-10 points)
Reading: Speaking and listening skills are demonstrated by each team member (1-10 points)
Discussing: Speaking and listening skills are demonstrated by each team member (1-10 points)
Summarizing: Reaching consensus based on discussion of options and standards (1-10 points)

Team Process (60 Points possible)

Alternative Solutions: Variety of options generated (1-10 points)
Definitions: Defining terms are used make decision in terms of the best outcome for the team (1-10 points)
Solution: Conclusions reached are explained and reasonable for the solution (10-20 points)
Presentation: Total team effort is shown:
1. Every team member contributes to reach group consensus (1-10 points)
2. A clear statement of the group decision is presented to the judges (1-10 points)

For more information visit the Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging website. 

Objectives

• To understand the importance of cotton as an agricultural commodity

• To promote cotton in communities

• To make knowledgeable, rational decisions when purchasing goods and services

• To select, use, maintain and dispose of goods and services in ways that maximize resources

• To obtain clothing, goods and services to meet needs and reflect lifestyles, personal values and goals

• To act as responsible consumer-citizen with an understanding of the rights and responsibilities of the consumer, business and government

• To learn to communicate reasons for choices made

Competition Guidelines

1. All participants must participate in a county 4-H Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging program.

2. The Junior Competition is for 4th – 8th grade youth. The Senior Competition is for 9th – 12th grade youth. A county may compete with a maximum of 20 youth for each competition level. The top four scoring participants in each competition level will be considered a team, with the top 3 scores counting, unless teams are designated prior to the contest. Counties have the option of competing with up to 2 teams per competition level. If a county has less than three contestants, they may participate as individuals.

3. The Consumer Judging portion of the contest will occur live and in-person at designated area contest locations.

4. Junior cotton presentations consist of a 30 second commercial and a poster that promotes cotton and its use. Juniors will prepare the poster to be no larger than 14” x 22” – half of a large size poster board. Junior Commercials are judged on appearance (5%), delivery (20%), creativity (20%), overall quality (20%), poster (30%) and length (5%). Use of notes is discouraged.

5. Senior cotton presentations consist of a 90 second advertisement about cotton. Seniors are not graded on posters, but limited props and costumes may be used. Seniors are judged on appearance (5%), delivery (20%), creativity (20%), accuracy of information (20%) organization of contents (15%), overall quality (15%), and length (5%).

6. For both reasons and commercials/PSAs, judges will come together to judge the first five 4-H’ers collectively in order to create a consist scoring pattern. Once the consistent scoring pattern has been established, judges will divide into their individual stations for judging. The number of judges for each station (1 or 2) will depend on the availability of screened volunteers and staff at the district contest.

7. Teams will judge 4 classes of consumer items and give oral reasons on one class. Use of notes is discouraged, and a penalty will be given if notes are used. Youth will have a maximum of 7 minutes for each class and a maximum of 7 minutes for reasons preparation.

8. Youth are judged based on 4 judging classes (50 points each for 200 points total), oral reasons (50 points), and a cotton presentation (100 points).

9. While blank paper is allowed as well as pre-printed blank product comparison forms. Notes and reasons template forms are prohibited during the consumer judging portion of the contest. Use of presentation notes, including cue cards and other prompts, are discouraged in the Cotton Boll portion of the contest.

10. The top 4 participants in a county in each competition level will be named the winning team, with the top three scores counting.

11. Ties will be broken using: Judging Total (1st), Oral Reasons (2nd), and Class 3 (3rd).

12. Cell phones/electronic devices are prohibited from being used during the contest.

Awards and Recognition

• Each participant will receive a special events pin.

• Award Certificates may be printed by the county and will be available in Canva.

• The district winning team will be the county team with the highest total team score (sum of the 3 highest individual scores per county).

• The district winning team will consist of the 3 highest scoring individuals and the 4th place alternate.

• The highest scoring Junior and Senior team at each contest will be recognized. Each team member (total of 4) will receive a prize.

 

• The 2 Senior teams with the highest score at each contest will be eligible to compete in the State 4-H Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging Contest.

• The high overall individual in the Senior Division (9th – 12th grade) at each contest will be invited to compete at the State Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging Contest for the High Overall Individual Award. This individual may also be a member of the 1st or 2nd place Senior team or may just compete as an individual.

• Special recognition will be awarded to the high individuals at each area contest. We will continue to recognize individuals in the categories of overall, individual, high judging score, and high advertisement/commercial in the age divisions of Cloverleaf (4th-6th), Junior (7th and 8th), and Senior (9th-12th). However, for the purposes of team recognition, 4th-6th graders will still be included in the Junior division. The purpose of this is to encourage some of our youngest participants in the program!

State Contest Awards and Recognition

• The 2 Senior teams with the highest score at each contest will be eligible to compete in the State 4-H Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging Contest.

• There will be NO Commercials/Advertisements at State Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging contest. At the State Contest a Group Think component will be implemented to reflect what competitors will see at the national level. Seniors will judge 2 additional classes (for a total of 6 classes) that are provided in the study guide/preparation materials. Seniors will give 2 sets of reasons at the State Contest.

• Group Think scoring will be broken down into two sections (team participation and team process). In team participation you can receive up to 40 points (Participation 1-10, Reading 1-10, Discussing 1-10, and Summarizing 1-10). In the team process category you can receive up to 60 points (Alternative solutions 1-10 points, Definitions 1-10, Solution 1-20 points, and Presentation (Effort shown 1-10 and Clear statement of Group Decision is presented 1-10). Refer to the Group Think rubric in the study guide.

• The high overall individual in the Senior Division (9th – 12th grade) at each contest will be invited to compete at the State Cotton Boll and Consumer Judging Contest for the High Overall Individual Award. This individual may also be a member of the 1st or 2nd place Senior team or may just compete as an individual.

• The State Winning Senior Team will be the county team with the highest total team score (sum of the 3 highest individual scores per county). The winning team will consist of the 3 highest scoring individuals and the 4th place alternate.

• The High Overall Individual Winner is the Senior 4-H’er with the highest total score at the state contest.

• The State Winning Senior Team and High Overall Senior Individual will be eligible for Master 4-H’er status; will receive a medal; and will participate in the recognition of Special Events Winners at State 4-H Congress. The banquet meal and lodging expenses will be paid for the team and coach; however, travel costs are not covered.

• The State Winning Senior Team of four members will be invited to participate in the National Consumer Decision Making Contest. Registration fees will be paid for 4 members and one team coach.

• State Winning Team Members may compete in future years as individuals. State Winning Team Members cannot compete again as a team. State High Individuals may compete in future years and if placing first, gain Master status until Georgia 4-H eligibility is completed.

• The Second Place State Winning Team of four members will be invited to participate in either the National FCS Skill-A-Thon or the National FCS Bowl. Travel costs will not be provided. This team will not receive Master 4-H’er status and may compete in the state competition again.

 

If an individual with a disability may require assistance or accommodation in order to participate in
this program, please contact us at least two weeks prior to the event.

For more information, contact your local UGA Extension office at
1-800-ASK-UGA1.