4-H Youth Development programs and activities must be supervised by an adult, 18 years of age or older, who has completed the VIP training and is currently an enrolled 4-H volunteer leader. The primary purpose of this process is to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants (i.e., youth, their parents and families, salaried and volunteer staff.) Refer to the Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development Policies for the complete Youth Protection policies.

In order to initially be recognized as a 4-H volunteer leader in the Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development program, all adults age 18 years and over must participate in the Youth Protection Program. The Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development VIP training program process includes:

1. Completion of the Volunteer Application Form.
2. Background records check for arrest and conviction records through the approved channel.
3. For first year Volunteers- Volunteers in Preparation training AND Mandated Reporter training.
4. Building Safe Spaces training
5. Supporting You, Supporting Youth Training
6. Completion of the 4-H Enrollment Form on 4-H Online.
7. Supporting Youth Mental Health Training-Optional but required for anyone in a Chaperone role

• In order to continue as a 4-H volunteer leader in the Wisconsin 4-H Youth Development program beyond the first year, all adults 18 years of age and over must annually complete the following:

1. Volunteer Behavior Expectations Form. (may be combined with the 4-H enrollment form) 
2. 4-H Enrollment Form on 4-H Online
   Note: A background records check for arrest and conviction records will be completed every four years for continuing 4-H volunteer leaders.
3. Supporting You, Supporting Youth-Required every year
4. Building Safe Spaces-Refresher every 2 years
5. Supporting Youth Mental Health-Refresher every 2 years. This training is optional, but is required for any Volunteer in a Chaperone role.

• Returning volunteers who have been absent one to four years need the background records check, signed Volunteer Behavior Expectations form, but are not required to attend the orientation to be reinstated as a volunteer. Returning volunteers who have been absent five or more years need to repeat the entire Youth Protection process.

If you are interested in becoming a Certified 4-H Adult Leader please contact the Langlade County UWEX office at 715-627-6238. We will be more than happy to help!