Honors Handbook

Transcription

1 Ocean County 4-H Honors Handbook A Guide to End of Year Awards Ocean County 4-H 1623 Whitesville Road Toms River, NJ ocean4h@co.ocean.nj.us Edited 11/2015

2 Welcome to a new year of Ocean County 4-H! Please be sure to read the entire Honors Handbook every year as all deadlines, forms, award criteria and standards are subject to alteration and improvement. The Honors Handbook is a vital tool to help you plan and prepare for your 4-H Year, so as soon as you receive this document, we encourage you to: 1. Review the entire handbook 2. Mark all important dates in your calendar and your family s calendar (pg 3) 3. Determine your project area interests (pg 9-13) Contact the Ocean County 4-H Office for Individual Project Areas (if applicable) Register all your project areas on 4HOnline by January 1 st, Consider what Specialty Awards you are interested in pursuing (pg 14-17) 5. Make your 4-H Binder(s) Your 4-H Binder should be a 3-ring binder and include your : 1. General Summary Form 2. Award Summary Form 3. Project Summary Forms 4. Your Project Record Book (If you are going to complete more than one Project Record Book, we suggest putting each in its own 3-ring binder) 5. Animal Registration and Health Form(s) 6. Calendar Pages (recommended) 7. Fair Entry Form(s) 6. Start planning your 4-H year How can I meet the Member in Good Standing requirements? What is my primary club? What kind of public presentation(s) would I like to do? On what topic(s)? What community service projects could my club(s) do? How can I help my club become an Honors Club? Which county events will I be able to attend? How will I meet the requirements for my project area(s)? How will I meet the requirements for the Specialty Awards I m interested in? What do I want to enter in the 2016 Ocean County Fair? 7. Have a fun 4-H year! 2 Like Ocean County 4-H on Facebook for updates and information!

3 Ocean County 4-H Important Dates and Deadlines *Please Note: All Dates Subject to Change September rd 4-H Volunteer Kick-Off 4 th Brag Book Photos/Info Due 26 th Gift Basket Auction October st All Year End Forms DUE! 3 rd Fall Forestry Festival 5 th -9 th 4-H Week! 11 th Pine Barrens Jamboree 17 th Petoberfest 19 th Leader s Meeting November 2015 All month - Santa Toy Drive 7 th Annual Awards Ceremony 23 rd Club Officers Meeting December th -31 st Ocean Co. 4-H Winter Program January st Project Registration Deadline 8 th -10 th Winter Lindley G. Cook 12 th Animalogy posters/forms DUE 25 th Leader s Meeting 30 th Animalogy February th Public Presentation Workshop 12 th -14 th Family Lindley G. Cook March th -6 th SJTC 15 th County Presentation Night 21 st Leader s Meeting 28 th Ocean Co. 4-H Spring Break Camp April st Horse Registration Deadline 9 th County Presentation Breakfast 11 th Volunteer Appreciation Dinner May st Animal Registration Deadline 1 st Health Forms Deadline 15 th OC Western Qualifying Horse Show 16 th Leader s Meeting TBD OC Equestrian of the Year June st Fair Entry Forms Deadline 20 th Leader s Meeting 27 th Food Judging Event TBD Family Fair Meeting and Potluck July Ocean County Fair August st Herdsman/Fair Ambassador Nominations Deadline TBD Fair Follow-Up Fiesta TBD Ocean Co. 4-H Summer Camps October 1 st, 2016: All 2015/2016 Year End Forms & Record Books DUE! 3

4 Page Ocean County 4-H Members Member in Good Standing 5 Definition of Qualified Public Presentation 6 Definition of Qualified Community Service Project 7 Definition of Participation in the Ocean County Fair 7 Member Awards and Recognition 8 Membership Year Pins 8 Cloverbud Recognition 8 Project Area Awards 8 4-H Specialty Awards 14 Achievement Award 14 Community Service Award 14 Leadership Award 14 Public Speaking Award 15 Ocean County 4-H Sponsored Awards 15 I DARE YOU Award 15 Kossatz-Lehman Memorial Award 16 Herdsman Awards 16 Ocean County Fair Youth Ambassador 17 Up-and-Coming Award 17 Ocean County 4-H Clubs Club Charter Requirements 18 EIN# Application Information 18 Club Awards and Recognition 18 Honors Club Designation 18 4-H Community Development Award 19 4-H Public Relations Award 19 4-H Loyal Heart Award 19 Ocean County 4-H Volunteers Volunteer Requirements 20 Volunteer Awards and Recognition 20 Volunteer Leader Year Pins 20 Ocean County 4-H Leader of the Year 21 Community Leadership Award 21 The Helping Hand Award 21 4-H Alumni Award 21 IMPORTANT DEADLINES TABLE OF CONTENTS

5 IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE READ This Honors Handbook only contains the guidelines for earning End of Year Awards. It does not contain the requirements for overall 4-H participation. An individual club s by-laws may require more, or less, than what is in this handbook. These guidelines are meant to challenge and encourage 4-H members, clubs, and volunteers to make the most of their 4-H Year. Please remember that earning End of Year Awards is not required for someone to be a respected and appreciated member of the Ocean County 4-H family. Ocean County 4-H Members Ocean County 4-H members are a part of a national 4-H family of over 6 million members. Being a 4- H member means contributing to your community, while learning, exploring, and having fun! The more you participate in the events and opportunities within 4-H, the more you will get out of the experience. The first step to making the most of your 4-H year is to become an Ocean County 4-H Member in Good Standing. Member in Good Standing In addition to the feeling of pride associated with being an Ocean County 4-H Member in Good Standing, this distinction allows a member to: Receive membership year pins at the conclusion of the 4-H year (pg. 8) Apply for 4-H project area awards and specialty awards (pg. 8-17) Participate in certain local, state and national-level competitions and events Requirements to be an Ocean County 4-H Member in Good Standing : 1. Attend 70% of the meetings in the member s primary club Belonging (defined pg. 6) 2. Give a qualified public presentation Independence (defined pg. 6) 3. Submit a completed Project Record Book by October 1st Mastery (defined pg. 7) 4. Complete a qualified community service project Generosity (defined pg. 7) 5. Participate in the Ocean County Fair (defined pg. 7) 6. Register in a chartered club on the 4HOnline website by January 1st 7. Submit all Summary Forms, with a completed 4-H Story, by October 1 st 5

6 Primary Club 4-H members will select their primary club, and inform the leader of their primary club, by January 1 st. A member s primary club leader is responsible for: 1. Determining if a member has fulfilled the 70% participation requirement 2. Determining if a member has fulfilled the Ocean County Fair participation requirement 3. Signing all necessary End of Year forms. A member should select a primary club based on the following criteria: 1. They can commit to fulfilling the participation requirements in the club s by-laws 2. They can commit to attending 70% or more of the club s meetings and activities 3. The club is carrying one of their primary project areas Qualified Public Presentations A qualified 4-H Public Presentation can be completed on the club, county or state level. Club presentations must be coordinated with the organizational club leader in advance. Ocean County 4-H Presentation Events are held 2-3 times a year, usually in March and April. The NJ State 4-H Public Presentation and Equine Presentation Contests are each held once a year. What is a Public Presentation? There are four types of qualified public presentations: Demonstration - Teaches others how to do something by showing while telling. At the end of a demonstration, you should have a finished product to show to your audience. Illustrated talk - Uses a poster, series of slides, pictures, or other visuals to help your audience understand your topic Formal speech - May be written by the presenter, or be the work of a noted individual (i.e. Shakespeare, Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., etc.). The presenter can use brief notes or an outline on index cards, but no visual aids are used. Performing arts - Can be a performance of dramatics (monologue or group scene), creative movement/dance, musical performance (instrument or vocal), or puppetry. Can be presented as a solo or group presentation. Presenters must introduce the performing art, perform, and conclude with a summary of the performance including an invitation for audience feedback. Public Presentation Time Limits: Cloverbud: 3-7 min. Club level: 5-15 min. County level: 5-15 min. State level: 8-15 min Other Public Presentation Requirements: Members must complete one public presentation for every three Project Area Awards they apply for. For Example: If you apply for six Project Area Awards at the conclusion of the 4-H year, you must have completed two qualified public presentations during the 4-H year. Members must complete one county level presentation after their 3rd year of 4-H membership. If a member wishes to use a non-4-h presentation to fulfill any public presentation requirement, the member must have a non-relative observer verify the presentation. The observer must send a letter directly to the Ocean County 4-H Office that includes the topic of the presentation, length, a description of the environment (number of people, school, church, toastmasters, etc) and their signature. Attend a Public Presentation Workshop to help you prepare! (see pg 3) 6

7 Project Record Books Every Ocean County 4-H Member in Good Standing must submit at least one completed Project Record Book at the conclusion of the 4-H year. In addition, for every Project Area Award that requires a project record book, you must submit the completed project record book to the Ocean County 4-H Office by October 1 st. (See pg. 9-13) For example: If you are applying for any End of Year Awards, you must submit one Project Record Book. If you are applying for Project Area Awards in rabbit, poultry, cooking, and goat, you must submit all four completed project record books by October 1 st. IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE READ A 4-H member can still participate in a project area, without fulfilling the Project Area Award requirements. We encourage all 4-H members to strive for End of Year Awards, but they re not required to participate in 4-H. Qualified Community Service Project A qualified community service project must be a worthy service to the community. This service must require meaningful effort on the part of the 4-H member. This requirement cannot be completed via participation in community service projects for other organizations. If you have any questions about your planned community service project, contact the Ocean County 4-H Office in advance of the event for approval. Examples of qualified community service projects: With your club: Planning and participating in a beach cleanup day Conducting a 4-H bake sale to raise money for a youth shelter Successfully recruiting donations and participating as a 4-H Relay for Life team Examples of activities that do not fulfill the community service requirement for 4-H: Participating as an individual in a highway cleanup day Speaking with the public or running a petting table at a 4-H event (this is considered PR) Giving your old coats to a coat drive Participating in a car wash fundraiser for your school Participation in the Ocean County Fair The method by which an Ocean County 4-H member fulfills the requirement of participation in the Ocean County Fair is determined solely by the leader of their primary club. The leader must clearly define the method by which this requirement can be fulfilled by June 1st, Examples of participation in the Ocean County Fair: - Assist with fair set-up and/or take down - Register an entry in the general tent - Participate in the execution of a show - Spend a total of 5 hours educating the public on their fair entry project or project animal - Spend a minimum of 2 hours volunteering in the tent over 3 days of the fair IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE READ Parents cannot provide verifying signatures for the project record books and summary forms of their own children. All clubs should have two certified leaders who can provide verifying signatures. Clubs run by a set of parents will need to make arrangements with the Ocean County 4-H Office. 7

8 4-H Member Awards and Recognition For their hard work, dedication and growth during the 4-H year, members are honored through a variety of awards. The majority of these awards are announced during the Annual Award Ceremony held in November. To be eligible for Ocean County 4-H awards and recognitions, a member must: 1. Be a Member in Good Standing (see pg. 5) 2. Submit the following, completed and signed, to the 4-H Office by October 1 st : One General Summary Form One Award Summary Form A Project Summary Form for EACH project area in which they wish to receive an award All required project record books NOTE: Cloverbuds do not need to submit any forms. All Cloverbuds will be listed by a club leader on the Membership Summary Form. Membership Year Pins The 4-H year runs from September 1st to August 31st of the following year. Members will be recognized for each year of post-cloverbud 4-H participation they spent as a Member in Good Standing. Cloverbud Recognition All 4-H participants in K - 3rd grade, who actively participate during the entire 4-H year, will be recognized at the Annual Award Ceremony. Project Area Awards Project Area Awards are earned by showing progression and improvement in the skills or knowledge base for a specific project area. Please contact the Ocean County 4-H Office with any questions or concerns about Project Area Award Requirements. NOTE: Cloverbuds are not eligible for Project Area Awards and any years completed while a Cloverbud are not considered when determining Project Area Awards for full members. General Requirements for all Project Area Awards: 1. Be a Member in Good Standing (see pg. 5) 2. Register in the project area by January 1st 3. Submit all summary forms and project record books by October 1 st 4. Complete one public presentation for every three project awards applied for (see pg. 6) IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE READ 4-H members can participate in project areas without pursuing Project Area Awards. Any completed 4-H project can be entered in the Ocean County Fair, even if the member did not register in that project area by January 1 st. However, that project will not be eligible for Best of Show or Best in Class awards at the fair, and the member is not eligible for that Project Area Award at the end of the 4-H year. For Example: Pollyanna does not register in the Fine Arts project area by January 1 st. Oh no! She can still exhibit her fine art projects at the Ocean County Fair and earn ribbons, but she is not eligible for Best of Show or Best in Class at the fair. Pollyanna is also not eligible for the Fine Arts Project Area Award at the end of the 4-H year. But she still learned a lot about Fine Art and had a great 4-H year! 8

9 The specific type of Project Area Award given is determined by the number of years the 4-H member completed all the project area requirements. Project Area Award Types: One year in project Recognition in Annual Awards Booklet Two years in project Silver Certificate Three years in project Silver Seal To be placed on Silver Certificate Four years in project Gold Project Pin and Recognition Certificate NOTE: Must complete a County-level public presentation to earn a Gold Project Pin Five or more years in project Gold Seal for each year completed NOTE: Must complete a County-level public presentation every year to earn a Gold Seal Individual Project Areas 4-H club members may pursue Project Area Awards in subjects not currently associated with a specific Ocean County 4-H club. However, before registering for any of the following project areas, you must contact the Ocean County 4-H Office for award requirements: Aerospace Agriculture (Farming) Aquaculture Beef Bicycle Biological Sciences Cats Child Care and Development Citizenship & Civic Engagement Communications Computer Technology Consumer and Family Sciences Consumer Education Dairy (Cows) Electricity Entomology and Bees Family Life Fashion Revue Food Science Forestry Gardening and Horticulture Healthy living Home Environment Industrial Arts - Metal work, leather work, auto repair, etc. Judging Llama Money Management Outdoor Education and Recreation Performing Arts Personal Development Photography & Video Physical science Plant Science Reporting Media Robotics Safety Sheep Swine Visual Arts - Arts & crafts, Fine art, etc. Wildlife and Fisheries - Nature crafts, bird house, fishing, etc Wood Science (Woodworking) Current Ocean County 4-H Club Project Areas Through the regular activities of club meetings and events, many 4-H members make progress in one of the project areas listed on pages However, to be eligible for a Project Area Award, a member must fulfill any additional requirements outlined for that project area. IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE READ All projects culminate at the Ocean County Fair! If a project, project animal, or 4-H member, is unable to attend the Ocean County Fair, arrangements must be made in advance with the Ocean County 4-H staff. If 4-H staff grants an exemption to fair participation, the member must enter an educational exhibit, display or poster for each project area. Exemptions to fair participation will not be granted for family vacations. 9

10 Cavy commitment to the proper care, maintenance and breeding techniques of cavy. Submit completed Rabbit, Cavy and Small Animal Project Record Book by October 1st Project Animal must be present at the Ocean County Fair and participate in corresponding show(s)* Assist with 4-H Set Up Day or Take Down Day for the Ocean County Fair* Spend 6 hours overall in the Small Animal Tent at the Ocean County Fair providing animal care and educating the public about 4-H and their projects.* Participate in one additional cavy-specific educational or showing opportunity during the 4-H year. The event must be 4-H affiliated. Examples: State Small Animal Symposium, any NJ 4-H Small Animal Show Clothing and Textiles In addition to fulfilling the General Requirements for All Project Areas (pg. 8), member demonstrates a commitment to acquiring knowledge of fabrics, clothing construction and care, and the creative process of clothing design. Submit Clothing and Textile Project Record Book by October 1st Submit at least one completed project for display at the Ocean County Fair* If completed project is wearable, showcase project in the Fashion Show at the Ocean County Fair* If unable to fulfill this requirement, member must make prior arrangement with Fashion Show Coordinator Cooking In addition to fulfilling the General Requirements for All Project Areas (pg. 8), member must develop the skills necessary to cook safely, creatively and confidently. Submit Food and Nutrition Project Record Book by October 1 st Submit at least one entry to the Food Judging Event held in June* Donate an appropriate homemade food item to at least one county-level event: Gift Basket Auction, Animalogy, Presenting: The Family Dinner!, County Presentation Nights, Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, Springfest, 4-H Fun Day & Craft Fair, Family Fair Meeting and Potluck, etc. (see the calendar on pg. 3) - Must include the recipe for each food item in their project record book. Dog Obedience/Grooming commitment to the proper care, training and health needs of dogs. Submit completed Dog Project Record Book by October 1st Project Animal must participate in corresponding show(s) at the Ocean County Fair* Participate in at least one additional dog-specific educational, demonstration or showing opportunity during the 4-H year. The event must be 4-H affiliated, organized or sponsored. Dog Seeing Eye commitment to the proper care, training and health needs of Seeing Eye puppies. Submit completed Seeing Eye Project Record Book by October 1st Project Animal must participate in corresponding show(s) at the Ocean County Fair* Participate in at least two additional dog-specific educational, demonstration or showing opportunities during the 4-H year. The event must be 4-H affiliated, organized or sponsored. 10

11 Engine, Tractors and Field Equipment In addition to fulfilling the General Requirements for All Project Areas (pg. 8), member demonstrates a desire to better understand the mechanics, capabilities, functions and upkeep of engines, tractors and field equipment. Actively participate in a 4-H Club dedicated to engines and tractors- If unable to fulfill this requirement, member must make prior arrangement with the Ocean County 4-H Office Submit at least one entry in one of the following Divisions in the General Tent: 6 (Science and Technology), 21 (Vocational Skills), or 23 (ATV) Food and Nutrition commitment to expanding their knowledge of proper nutrition, food safety and food preparation. Submit Food and Nutrition Project Record Book by October 1 st Submit at least one entry to the Food Judging Event held in June* Submit at least one food-related, or nutrition-related, educational display (poster, activity board, etc.) for exhibit in the General Tent at the Ocean County Fair* Goats commitment to understanding the role of goats in the dairy industry and the proper care, maintenance and breeding techniques for goats. Submit completed Goat Project Record Book by October 1st Project Animal must be present at the Ocean County Fair and participate in corresponding show(s)* Assist with 4-H Set Up Day and Take Down Day for the Ocean County Fair* Spend at least 4 hours in the Livestock Tent at the Ocean County Fair providing animal care and educating the public about 4-H and their projects.* Hobby and Collections In addition to fulfilling the General Requirements for All Project Areas (pg. 8), members develop skills in their chosen hobby by consistently practicing, participating in learning opportunities, and sharing with others. Participate in at least one demonstration or presentation of their hobby at a 4-H Event Submit at least one entry in one of the following Divisions in the General Tent*: 4 (Hobbies), 8 (Textiles), 19 (Fine Arts), 20 (Crafts), or 21 (Vocational Skills) Horse commitment to developing the knowledge and skills necessary for proper horse management, training, riding, and safety. Submit Horse Project Record Book by October 1st Submit one educational display (poster, activity board, stall decoration, etc.) for exhibit in the Horse Tent at the Ocean County Fair* Assist with 4-H Set Up Day and Take Down Day for the Ocean County Fair* Project Animal must be present and/or shown at the Ocean County Fair* If unable to fulfill this requirement, member must assist with a horse show at the Ocean County Fair 11

12 Horse Science commitment to expanding their knowledge of horse physiology, judging, and veterinary needs. Attend 3/4 of Horse Science club meetings every month If unable to fulfill this requirement, prior arrangement must be made with the Horse Science club leaders Complete and submit all projects and coursework by their given deadlines Submit Virtual Horse Project Book by October 1 st Participate at all Horse Science state-level events they qualified to attend - If unable to fulfill this requirement, prior arrangement must be made with the Horse Science club leaders Pets - Herpetology commitment to understanding and maintaining the good health of their pet. Submit completed Herpetology Project Record Book by October 1st Project Animal must participate in corresponding show(s) at the Ocean County Fair* Assist with 4-H Set Up Day or Take Down Day for the Ocean County Fair* Spend a total of 2 hours educating the public about their projects at 4-H events. Pets - Small Animal commitment to understanding and maintaining the good health of their pet. Submit completed Rabbit, Cavy and Small Animal Project Record Book by October 1st Project Animal must participate in corresponding show(s) at the Ocean County Fair* Assist with 4-H Set Up Day or Take Down Day for the Ocean County Fair* Participate in at least one additional small animal-specific educational or showing opportunity during the 4-H year. The event must be 4-H affiliated or organized. Examples: State Small Animal Symposium, any NJ 4-H Small Animal Show Poultry commitment to the proper care, maintenance and breeding techniques of poultry. Submit completed Poultry Project Record Book by October 1st Project Animal must be present at the Ocean County Fair and participate in corresponding show(s)* Assist with 4-H Set Up Day and Take Down Day for the Ocean County Fair* Spend 6 hours in the Poultry Tent at the Ocean County Fair providing animal care and educating the public about 4-H and their projects.* Participate in at least one additional poultry-specific educational or showing opportunity during the 4-H year. The event must be 4-H affiliated or organized. Examples: State Small Animal Symposium, Junior Breeders Symposium, any NJ 4-H Poultry Show 12

13 Rabbit commitment to the proper care, maintenance and breeding techniques of rabbits. Submit completed Rabbit, Cavy and Small Animal Project Record Book by October 1st Project Animal must be present at the Ocean County Fair and participate in corresponding show(s)* Assist with 4-H Set Up Day and Take Down Day for the Ocean County Fair* Spend 6 hours in the Small Animal Tent at the Ocean County Fair providing animal care and educating the public about 4-H and their projects.* Participate in at least one additional rabbit-specific educational or showing opportunity during the 4-H year. The event must be 4-H affiliated. Examples: State Small Animal Symposium, any NJ 4-H Rabbit Show Shooting Sports commitment to shooting sport safety, education and the proper maintenance of shooting sport equipment. Keep accurate and complete records of all shoots Actively participate in a shooting sports 4-H Club- If unable to fulfill this requirement, member must make prior arrangement with the Ocean County 4-H Office Additional Requirements: Air Rifle Complete air rifle safety trainings Participate in the Air Rifle Shoot at the Ocean County Fair* Archery Complete archery safety trainings Participate in Ocean County Archery Invitational Participate in Archery Shoot at the Ocean County Fair* Rifle Complete rifle safety trainings Participate in the majority of available rifle shoots during the 4-H year Muzzleloader Complete muzzleloader safety trainings Participate in Civil War educational program during the 4-H year Participate in muzzleloader demonstration during the Ocean County Fair* Pistol Complete pistol safety trainings Participate in the majority of available pistol shoots during the 4-H year Shotgun Complete the 4-H shotgun clinic Technology and Engineering In addition to fulfilling the General Requirements for All Project Areas (pg. 8), member must demonstrate dedication to expanding their knowledge of how things work. This may include designing, constructing, programming and problem-solving using a wide variety of materials. Participate in at least one applicable demonstration or presentation at a 4-H Event Submit at least one entry in Division 6 (Science and Technology) under the General Tent at the Ocean County Fair* Veterinary Science commitment to expanding their knowledge of animal physiology, maintenance, and veterinary needs. Submit at least one entry in Division 6 /Class B-2 (Science and Technology/Animal-Veterinary Science) under the General Tent at the Ocean County Fair* Attend at least two animal-related educational workshops, symposia, clinics, or conferences during the 4-H Year Participate in at least one educational competition that requires veterinary science study. Ex: Avian Bowl, Horse Bowl, Hippology and Horse Judging, Goat Extravaganza, Animalogy, etc. 13

14 4-H Specialty Awards 4-H specialty awards are meant to recognize a member s higher level of dedication to certain requirements or activities within 4-H. Listed below each award are the requirements that must be met for a member to apply for a specific award, and the criteria a leader should use when deciding to approve a member s award application. Achievement Award The Achievement Award recognizes exceptional progress a 4-H member has made in four or more project areas. Requirements: 1. Member in Good Standing 2. Complete project record books for four or more project areas 3. Application approved by the member s primary club leader Leader Approval Criteria: Shows progress and improvement in four or more project areas Accepts new challenges in those project areas Is a role model to others in those project area Community Service Award The Community Service Award recognizes 4-H members who demonstrate a higher level of commitment to serving and improving their larger community. Requirements: 1. Member in Good Standing 2. Complete three or more varied and meaningful community service projects as a representative of Ocean County 4-H (wearing a 4-H t-shirt, participating with a 4-H club, etc.) 3. Participate in a leadership role during the execution of the community service projects through fundraising, organizing, and/or advertising. 4. Application approved by the member s primary club leader Leader Approval Criteria: Takes the initiative to suggest, organize, and help execute community service projects Encourages others to participate in community service projects Embodies the 4-H Essential Element of Generosity Leadership Award The Leadership Award recognizes 4-H members who demonstrate the skills, attitude, empathy, and dedication necessary for effective leadership. Requirements: 1. Member in Good Standing 2. Be elected, and actively fulfill the responsibilities of a club officer position for two or more 4-H years 3. Take an active role in the planning and execution of at least one club-level event, one county-level event, and one event on either the state level, or with an organization outside of 4-H. 4. Application approved by the member s primary club leader Leader Approval Criteria: Displays an eagerness to take on responsibility for decision-making, planning and problem-solving with a group Maintains patience and tact when interacting with other youth and adults, even during disagreements Is consistently prepared, organized and punctual 14

15 Public Speaking Award The Public Speaking Award recognizes 4-H members who develop and improve those skills necessary for connecting with an audience and conveying information in a clear and concise manner. Requirements: 1. Member in Good Standing 2. Complete at least four qualified public presentations during the 4-H year, of which one must be at an Ocean County 4-H Presentation Event. 3. Each public presentation must have a separate topic. NOTE: Please remember that there are a wide variety of formats for a presentation! (See pg 6) 4. Application approved by the member s primary club leader Leader Approval Criteria: Demonstrates a desire to improve their public speaking delivery, or to become more confident speaking in front of others Takes advantage of the numerous public presentation opportunities in 4-H Receives constructive criticism of public presentations gracefully and applies them to future presentations Ocean County 4-H Sponsored Awards When a leader identifies an Ocean County 4-H member who embodies unique character traits and a special relationship with Ocean County 4-H, its members, and its activities, they should nominate them for an Ocean County 4-H Specialty Award. I DARE YOU Award This award is sponsored by the Ocean County 4-H Association and the Ocean County Board of Agriculture in memory of William H. Danforth, who championed the I DARE YOU philosophy of THINK TALL, STAND TALL, and LIVE TALL. The two award recipients represent Ocean County 4-H at various programs and at the New Jersey Agriculture Conference Youth Reception. The recipients receive a plaque and complimentary dinner at the Youth Reception for themselves and one parent. This award will not be given to the same 4-H member more than once. NOTE: Nominations are due October 1 st, 2016 Requirements: 1. Member in Good Standing 2. In Grade 9 13 during the H year 3. Been active in 4-H for 3 or more years Leader Nomination Criteria: Demonstrated qualities of constructive leadership Is well-balanced on the four-square basis of: - Healthy physical habits - Alert and ever-growing mind - Character - Outreach of friendship and constructive social relationships 15

16 Kossatz-Lehman Memorial Award This award is sponsored by the Ocean County Board of Agriculture in honor of Fred and Mary Kossatz and Arnold Lehman. The Kossatzs and Lehman were dedicated volunteers on the Ocean County Board of Agriculture and worked tirelessly to benefit Cooperative Extension and their local community. This award is presented in recognition of distinguish community service to a teen member who gives beyond 4-H. NOTE: Nominations are due October 1 st, 2016 Requirements: 1. Member in Good Standing 2. In Grade 9 13 during the H year 3. Been active in 4-H for 2 or more years Leader Nomination Criteria: Demonstrated commitment to providing community service above and beyond those activities planned at the 4-H club level Herdsman Awards The Ocean County Fair is a very important time in the 4-H year, especially because it provides an opportunity for 4-H members to interact with the general public. Herdsman Awards acknowledge teens that not only take pride in the appearance of their fair entries, but consistently serve as educators of the public, and role models for the next generation. Each tent can nominate 2 Herdsmen. NOTE: Nominations are due August 1 st, 2016 Requirements: 1. Member in Good Standing 2. In Grade 8 13 during the H year 3. Assisted in the set-up or take-down of the Ocean County Fair 4. Nominated by a tent superintendent Leader Nomination Criteria: Kept all animal pens and public areas in their tent clean and neat Was respectful and helpful at all times to 4-H members, parents, leaders, and fair partners Went above and beyond to communicate and educate the public about 4-H and their project areas Served as a role model for younger 4-H members by assisting and instructing them. 16

17 Ocean County Fair Youth Ambassador Every year the Ocean County 4-H office selects a youth to compete in the NJ Agricultural Fair Ambassador Contest, usually held in early November. The NJ Agricultural Fair Ambassador reigns for a year and their responsibilities include visiting the state's agricultural fairs in 2016 and "bringing people together to support the state's agriculture industry" by attending events and talking to the public. Each tent can nominate 2 youths. NOTE: Nominations are due August 1 st, 2016 Requirements: 1. Member in Good Standing 2. Between the ages of 16 and 21 (Must be 16 years of age prior to the date of the contest) 3. Assisted in the set-up or take-down of the Ocean County Fair 4. Nominated by a tent superintendent Leader Nomination Criteria: Demonstrated a commitment to the success of the Ocean County Fair Displayed a positive attitude and eagerness to help during the Ocean County Fair Appeared at ease talking to the public Exhibited knowledge of, or willingness to study, NJ agriculture Up-and-Coming Award Although the majority of Ocean County 4-H Specialty Awards recognize senior 4-H members, this award is given by the Ocean County 4-H Teen Council to junior 4-H members who display great commitment to 4-H. Each member of Teen Council will nominate one 4-H junior member for this award and the winners will be selected by group vote. NOTE: Nominations are due October 1 st, 2016 Requirements: 1. In Grade 4 8 during the H year 2. Nominated by a member of the Ocean County 4-H Teen Council 4-H Leadership Suggestions Hold a club office Main Club Officers: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer Additional Officer Roles: Club Reporter/Historian, Snack Master, Recreation Leader Participate with the Ocean County 4-H Teen Council (Contact the OC 4-H Office) Organize or lead a workshop for your club or for the county You are knowledgeable! Share your interests with OC 4-H yourself or organize for an expert to come in and teach us. Plan a club community service project or fundraiser Participate on planning committees for local or state 4-H events Help plan Winter Camp or SJTC! Contribute to the State Advisory Council, Small Animal Youth Advisory or others. (Contact the OC 4-H Office for more) Talk to your club leaders about becoming a Teen Club Leader 17

18 Ocean County 4-H Clubs There are currently more than 20 4-H clubs in Ocean County, exploring subjects from chickens to chili. To explore forming a new 4-H club, please contact the Ocean County 4-H Office. Club Charter Information All 4-H clubs in Ocean County should be chartered. To become a chartered club, contact the Ocean County 4-H Office to obtain and complete the 4-H Club Charter Application. This form requires your club s bylaws, the signatures of your leaders and the signature of an Ocean County 4-H staff member. Requirements for a 4-H Club Charter Five or more registered members from at least three different families At least two registered and screened adult volunteer leaders Elected officers that follow parliamentary procedures Educational activities that are planned and conducted An official 4-H Club name that contains the phrases: 4-H and Ocean County By-laws (Must include a dissolution clause indicating club property will revert back to county 4-H program) A commitment to inclusion A commitment to follow all RCE/Department of 4-H Youth Development policies EIN# Application Information To engage in fundraising activities and open a club bank account, a leader must first contact the Ocean County 4-H Office to obtain and complete an SS-4 form for the IRS. The SS-4 form only requires a leader s signature and very basic information about the club. 4-H Club Awards and Recognitions These awards recognize the cooperative efforts and dedication of Ocean County 4-H clubs. Members and volunteers can nominate their own club, or another club that inspires them. NOTE: All nominations are due October 1 st, 2016 Honors Club Designation A club that strives to make the most of their time together and embraces the requirements and opportunities within Ocean County 4-H can be designated an Honors Club. Requirements to become an Ocean County 4-H Honors Club: 1. Be chartered by January 1 st, 2016 and fulfill all charter requirements through the entire year (see above ) 2. Meet at least once a month for 9 months out of the 4-H year 3. Conduct at least one business meeting/month for 9 or more months/4-h year 4. Meetings conducted by elected club officers 5. Complete the yearly club audit conducted by the Ocean County 4-H Office 6. Conduct at least two qualified community service projects as a club 7. Participate in at least two Ocean County-level 4-H events* 8. Submit one entry for Division 1: Club Entries to the Ocean County Fair 9. 70% of club members must complete: a Project Record Book, a qualified Public Presentation, and an entry for the Ocean County Fair 18

19 * Ocean County-level events currently include: Fall Forestry Fest, Pine Barrens Jamboree, Petoberfest, Animalogy, Springfest, and 4-H Fun-Day and Craft Fair Ocean County Fair Division 1: Club Entries includes: A. Club Booth B. Banner C. Club Scrapbook D. Club Exhibit 4-H Community Development Award This award is presented to a 4-H club in recognition of outstanding service to the larger community. The award recipients completed varied community service projects that helped make their community stronger, healthier, or better prepared to thrive in the future. To qualify for this award, all clubs should keep a record of community service projects completed by their club and individual members. 4-H Public Relations Award This award is presented to a 4-H Club in recognition of an exceptional public relations program on behalf of their 4-H Club, their 4-H project and/or the Ocean County 4-H program. The members of the club have been featured in print or visual media while representing Ocean County 4-H on the County, State, or National level. To qualify for this award, all clubs should keep a record of newspaper clippings, photos and the TV channels on which their club, or club members, were featured. 4-H Loyal Heart Award This award is presented to a 4-H club in recognition of their service to the Ocean County 4-H community. To ensure the success of Ocean County 4-H, the club members selflessly donated their time, hard work and enthusiasm to 4-H events throughout the year. They also promoted 4-H at non-county organized events, such as festivals, Back to School Nights, and club fundraisers. To qualify for this award, all clubs should keep a record of their club s service at 4-H events and all club interactions with the public. 4-H Club Community Service Suggestions Participate in Beach Clean Ups (Ex: Clean Ocean Action: Beach Sweeps) Help a Food Pantry: Organize a food drive or Volunteer in-person (Ex: Ocean County Hunger Relief, People s Pantry) Adopt a Family or help a Giving Tree programs (Ex: Operation Sleighbells) Help animals: Fundraise to sponsor an animal, organize a supply drive, volunteer to socialize animals at an animal shelter, help a rabies or community spay/neuter clinic day (Ex: Popcorn Park Zoo, S.A.V.E. Rescue) Attend Community Clean Up Days Visit a facility that cares for the elderly or the infirm. Bring animals, handmade greeting cards, music, or activities. Fundraise/Participate for non-profit events (Ex: Relay for Life, Walk for the Cure, etc.) 19

20 Ocean County 4-H Volunteers Being an Ocean County 4-H Volunteer is a rewarding experience, and without the effort, expertise and passion of adult volunteers, the club program could not exist. If you know of someone who might enjoy being a part of the 4-H community, please encourage them to contact the Ocean County 4-H Office. Requirements to be an Ocean County 4-H Volunteer Leader: Possess enthusiasm, patience, and a desire to share your knowledge Complete the following process: 1. Submit a completed Volunteer Application and 3 references After being contacted by the Ocean County 4-H Office: 2. Complete the online Youth Protection Training 3. Complete a background check 4. Attend a New Volunteer Training 5. Register on 4HOnline 4-H Volunteer Awards and Recognitions It is difficult to fully convey how grateful the staff, members and families of Ocean County 4-H are for the efforts of the county s volunteers, but the following awards strive to recognize their contributions. Volunteer Leader Year Pins Contributing Ocean County 4-H leaders are recognized at the end of each 4-H year. Certain milestones in a leader s time with 4-H are also recognized with the following: One Year Five Years Ten Years Fifteen Years Twenty Years Twenty-five Years Thirty Years Thirty-five Years Forty Years Forty-five Years Fifty Years Bronze Clover Award Silver Clover Award Gold Clover Award Pearl Clover Award Petite Diamond Clover Award Petite Emerald Clover Award Petite Ruby Clover Award Sapphire Clover Award Diamond Clover Award Emerald Clover Award Ruby Clover Award 20

21 Volunteer Specialty Awards Volunteer specialty awards are meant to recognize particular volunteers with a higher level of dedication to 4-H, its members and its programs. Any 4-H volunteer or member can nominate a volunteer for these awards. NOTE: Nominations are due October 1 st, 2016 To be eligible for Ocean County 4-H Volunteer Specialty Awards, a volunteer should: 1. Be registered in a chartered club by January 1 st 2. Attend at least four Leader s Association meetings during the 4-H year 3. Assist in the planning and execution of at least one Ocean County 4-H event 4. Complete a criminal background check when required 5. Provide the necessary opportunities for their club members to be Members in Good Standing Ocean County 4-H Leader of the Year This great honor is bestowed upon a current Ocean County 4-H club leader who has gone above and beyond to provide opportunities for their 4-H club members to learn, grow and succeed. This leader was consistent, reliable, accessible and enthusiastic throughout the entire 4-H year. The 4-H Leader of the Year will have planned and executed community service projects, educational activities, and fun events for their club. This leader should be a role model and inspiration to other leaders, and a resource and guide to club members. Community Leadership Award This award recognizes a leader who has put particular effort into providing service to the larger community. Through planning and participating in community service projects both within and outside of 4-H, this person is making a positive impact on the world, and inspiring others to do the same. The Helping Hand Award Not every volunteer providing exceptional service to Ocean County 4-H is a club leader. This award recognizes any adult who tirelessly dedicates their hands to serving Ocean County 4-H on a regular basis. The nominee can be a parent or family member of a 4-H member, but cannot be a current 4-H Club Leader. 4-H Alumni Award A 4-H member s dedication to serving their community does not end when they graduate from 4-H membership. Each year a 4-H alumna/alumnus is honored by the Ocean County 4-H Leader s Association for outstanding contributions to their community, Ocean County or 4-H. The person nominated may have been a 4-H member in another state or county. 21

22 Important Deadlines DUE January 1 st, 2016 All Members/Volunteers: DUE April 1 st, 2016 Horse Project Members: DUE May 1 st, 2016 Animal Project Members: Horse Project Members: DUE June 1 st, 2016 All Members/Clubs: DUE August 1 st, 2016 Tent Superintendents: DUE September 1 st, 2016 All Members/Clubs: Registration for all Project Areas on 4HOnline Horse/Pony/VSE Registration Forms Animal Registration and Health Forms All Coggins/Health Forms Fair Entry Forms OC Fair Youth Ambassador Nomination Form Herdsman Nomination Form Club Summary Form & Photos for the Brag Book DUE October 1 st, 2016 All Members: Completed Project Record Books General Summary Form and 4-H Story Award Summary Form Project Summary Form(s) Club Awards Nomination Form Volunteer Specialty Awards Nomination Form Club Leaders: Membership Summary Form (use the worksheet) I DARE YOU Award Nomination Form Kossatz-Lehman Memorial Award Nomination Form Honors Club Application (if applicable) Club Awards Nomination Form Volunteer Specialty Awards Nomination Form 22 Like Ocean County 4-H on Facebook for updates and information!