Factors affecting the identification, recruiting, and training of volunteer 4-H adult leaders in Texas

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study was to obtain and analyze data concerning volunteer 4-H adult leaders in selected counties of Texas in order that recommendations might be developed for use by Extension staff members in identifying, recruiting and training 4-H adult leaders. Specific objectives within this broad purpose include: 1. To identify selected biographical characteristics of those now serving as volunteer 4-H adult leaders in Texas. 2. To determine the level of association between selected biographical characteristics of volunteer 4-H adult leaders and leader effectiveness ratings provided by Extension agents. 3. To identify methods of recruiting as preferred by volunteer 4-H adult leaders. 4. To determine training needs as perceived by volunteer 4-H adult leaders. 5. To develop recommendations for identifying, recruiting, and training volunteer 4-H adult leaders. Procedure A questionnaire was used to identify selected biographical characteristics, recruiting preferences and training needs of volunteer 4-H adult leaders. Extension agents in 25 counties selected at random placed each of these 4-H leaders into three categories of effectiveness including group one as most effective, group two as somewhat effective and group three as least effective. These three effectiveness groups were used as the dependent variables and were correlated with the independent variables of age, sex, marital status, tenure, self-acceptance, education, income, number of children, number of children in 4-H, affiliation with other organizations, former 4-H membership and place of residence. Analysis of variance, the Duncan multiple range test, and chi-square were used to make the statistical analysis at the .05 level. ...