This program is open to all 7th–12th grade 4-H youth and is designed to be more youth-led and self-directed. Members have the opportunity to elect their own officers and work together to determine the activities and events they’d like to support and participate in throughout the year.

In addition, two Junior Leaders are selected to serve on the Iowa County Leaders Council, providing a meaningful leadership opportunity and youth voice in shaping the direction of our countywide program.

We believe this change will empower more youth, foster stronger leadership skills, and create a dynamic and inclusive space for teens to grow and thrive.

The process of becoming an Iowa County 4-H Junior Leader is simple. Follow the google form link below to apply today. All applications are due by Monday, September 21, 2026.

https://forms.gle/mXSNkA3u8gP5vUbQ6

Iowa County 4-H Junior Leaders Association Program

Purpose & Goals

The Iowa County 4-H Junior Leaders Association aims to:

• Cultivate leadership skills through real-world experiences in planning and executing events.
• Foster civic engagement by organizing service projects that benefit the local community.
• Encourage teamwork and collaboration among older 4-H members from various clubs.
• Serve as mentors and role models for younger 4-H members, fostering peer learning and support.
• Support 4-H program growth by assisting in recruitment, marketing, and outreach initiatives.
• Enhance youth representation by integrating JLA leadership into county-wide planning through the 4-H Adult Leaders Executive Board.

Membership

• Open to active 4-H members in 7^th-12^th grades, who demonstrate responsibility, leadership interest, and commitment to the 4-H mission.
• Membership is open to all 4-H members in good standing and willingness to participate actively in JLA activities.
• Commitment to attending meetings, leading projects, and serving in leadership roles is required.

Structure & Roles

The JLA will have a leadership team that includes both elected and appointed positions to ensure smooth operation. Two representatives from the JLA will also hold seats on the 4-H Adult Leaders Executive Board.

Junior Leaders Association Officers:

• President – Leads meetings, sets goals, delegates tasks, and ensures the successful execution of projects.
• Vice President – Assists the president, oversees committees, and steps in when the president is unavailable.
• Secretary – Maintains meeting minutes, tracks member participation, and handles official communication.
• Committee Chairs – Lead specific project areas such as event planning, community service, or mentorship programs.

Youth Representatives on the 4-H Adult Leaders Executive Board:

• 4-H Adult Leaders Representatives – These two individuals will serve as a voting member of the 4-H Adult Leaders Executive Board, providing updates on JLA activities and ensuring youth representation in county-wide decision-making.

Responsibilities & Activities

The JLA will take an active role in leading and supporting various 4-H initiatives, including:

• County-wide 4-H event support – Assisting with planning and execution of fairs, camps, workshops, and enrollment nights.
• Youth-led workshops – Organizing and leading skill-building workshops for younger 4-H members in STEM, arts, leadership, and life skills.
• Mentorship programs – Pairing experienced JLA members with younger 4-H participants to provide guidance and support.
• Community service projects – Leading service initiatives such as food drives, environmental cleanups, or volunteer efforts at local charities.
• Marketing & recruitment – Promoting 4-H through social media, school visits, and local events to increase enrollment and awareness.

Meetings & Commitment

• The JLA will meet 4-5 times a year, depending on program needs and seasonal activities.
• The mandatory start of the year meeting will be held in October, to reflect the new 4-H year.
• JLA officers will meet separately as needed to coordinate initiatives.
• The Youth Representatives on the 4-H Adult Leaders Executive Board:  will attend 4-H Adult Leaders Executive Board meetings to provide youth input and collaborate on county-wide 4-H efforts.

Support & Oversight

The JLA will work closely with UW-Extension 4-H staff, adult 4-H leaders, and the 4-H Adult Leaders Executive Board to ensure alignment with county and state 4-H goals. Adult advisors will provide mentorship, guidance, and logistical support to help JLA members succeed in their roles.

Conclusion

The establishment of the Iowa County 4-H Junior Leaders Association will empower youth to take an active role in leadership, foster stronger connections within the 4-H community, and ensure that the voices of young people are heard at the county level. By integrating youth representatives into the 4-H Adult Leaders Executive Board, Iowa County 4-H will create a more dynamic, youth-driven program that prepares young leaders for future success in their communities and beyond.

Contact the UW-Extension 4-H Office in Dodgeville at (608) 930-9850 for more information on the 4-H Iowa County Junior Leaders Program.