Self-Perceived 4-H Leader Competencies and Their Relation to the Skills Youth Learn Through 4-H Youth Development Programs

This article reports the results of a statewide survey to assess the influence of perceived 4-H volunteer leader skills on the life skills 4-H youth learn. Results indicate the most important skill a volunteer leader possesses is to ensure the physical and psychological safety of 4-H members. This includes keeping youth from hurting each other\u27s feelings; keeping youth from bullying each other; managing conflict between youth; making sure that the facility where 4-H youth meet is safe. These results emphasize the importance of the careful recruitment, screening, training, and management of 4-H volunteer leaders