2. Safety: The Second Program Anchor-Creating Safe Environments
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Providing everyone with a safe environment is Missouri's second program anchor.
Safe environments are created in 4-H in several ways:
- Annual volunteer application and screening process
When volunteers take just a few minutes each year to complete the application and sign the commitment form, it helps to assure that 4-H members, as well as volunteers, are safe.
- Volunteer orientation
Volunteers are required to participate in a one time volunteer orientation training. Beginning in 2009, the post card that volunteers receive will also indicate that they have completed this one-time volunteer orientation.
- Ongoing volunteer training
We encourage 4-H volunteers to take advantage of training. Many county or regional 4-H programs offer a variety of trainings on different topics. Trainings provide opportunities to visit with other 4-H volunteers to find out what is helpful to them or how they have solved certain problems. One of the most beneficial 4-H volunteer training events is the North Central Region Volunteer Forum, an annual conference held in one of 12 Midwest states every fall. Workshops and presentations are planned specifically for 4-H volunteers and many are taught by volunteers.
Medical/accident insurance
Most counties purchase special insurance for all club members that is available for special events. The insurance is very inexpensive and provides great coverage in case someone is injured.
- Health consent form required for all events
Some counties now ask that a health consent form be completed every year for each member and kept on file at the Extension center. State events also require that a health form be submitted per event.
- Parental permission
Parental permission gives 4-H and hospitals permission to treat their children, if necessary.
