Below are some resource ideas to help increase recruitment of millennial and Gen Y volunteers for UConn 4-H. We focus on visually appealing, shareable content and accessible messaging that resonates with these generations. The materials can be used across different platforms such as social media, websites, and events.

Social Media Graphics & Campaign Ideas

Graphic Series: “Volunteering with UConn 4-H: A Gateway to Leadership” 

Content: Create a series of visually appealing posts highlighting key volunteer roles, showing real-life examples of young volunteers, and the benefits of 4-H. Use imagery that includes volunteers helping in STEM, leadership, and community programs. 

Messaging: 

• Post 1: “Looking for a way to give back, grow your skills, and make an impact? Become a 4-H volunteer today! 🌱👩‍💻 Learn leadership, teach the next generation, and have fun while doing it. #UConn4H #LeadTheFuture” 

• Post 2: “Volunteers like you make 4-H more than agriculture. Whether it's robotics, animal care, or public speaking – share your skills and make a difference! #STEMVolunteers #4HGivesBack” 

• Post 3: “Flexible volunteer opportunities that fit your life! Become a mentor, lead a workshop, or help with events – there’s a place for you in 4-H. #VolunteerYourWay #MillennialsGiveBack” 

Format: Instagram carousel posts, Instagram/Facebook stories, and TikTok short videos. 

Instagram Reel/TikTok: “A Day in the Life of a 4-H Volunteer” 

• Content: Showcase a day in the life of a 4-H volunteer. Use upbeat music, quick cuts between activities, and captions to describe the diverse opportunities for volunteering (mentoring kids, organizing events, leading STEM projects). 

• Messaging: 
  • “Want to make a difference? Here’s what a day volunteering at UConn 4-H looks like! Flexible, impactful, and rewarding. Join the community today! #4HVolunteers #STEMLeaders” 

• Call to Action: Include a link to a simple online volunteer interest form. 

Infographic: “Top 5 Reasons to Volunteer with UConn 4-H” 

• Content: Highlight benefits, including leadership experience, community impact, flexibility, skill-building (STEM, agriculture, public speaking), and the chance to mentor the next generation. 

• Format: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn posts, as well as printable flyers for use at events like farmers’ markets.

Volunteer Recruitment Flyer

This flyer could be distributed at community events, schools, or included in local newsletters. 

Headline: 

"Make a Difference in Your Community: Become a UConn 4-H Volunteer!" 

Body Text: 

• Do you want to inspire youth, develop leadership skills, and give back to your community? UConn 4-H is looking for millennials and Gen Y volunteers like you to help mentor the next generation. 

• Why Volunteer with UConn 4-H? 

• Flexible Opportunities: Whether you have an hour a week or a day a month, we have a role for you. 

• Build Your Skills: From leadership to STEM, volunteering with 4-H is a hands-on way to develop new skills. 

• Make an Impact: Teach kids valuable life skills, promote sustainability, and help build stronger communities. 

• Be a Mentor: Pay it forward by giving the next generation the same opportunities you had – or wished you had! 
  • How to Get Started: Visit [volunteer website link] or scan the QR code below to sign up and learn more. 

• Call to Action: "Join us in making a difference. Become a volunteer today!" 

Design Elements: 

• Include photos of young volunteers in action. 

• Use vibrant 4-H colors (green, white) and the UConn branding. 

• Add a QR code for easy sign-ups via mobile devices. 

Volunteer Info Packet for Community Events (e.g., Farmers' Markets)

Cover Sheet: “Be Part of Something Bigger: Volunteer with UConn 4-H” 

Section 1: About UConn 4-H 

• Overview of 4-H programs (agriculture, STEM, community service, leadership). 

• Brief history and mission of 4-H. 

Section 2: Volunteer Roles

• Highlight different types of volunteering opportunities (e.g., event helpers, project leaders, youth mentors). 

• Include testimonials from current millennial volunteers. 

Section 3: Benefits of Volunteering

• Emphasize flexible hours, leadership and professional development, and community impact. 

Section 4: How to Get Involved

• Step-by-step guide on how to sign up. 

• Information on the volunteer onboarding process, including background checks. 

• Contact details for local UConn 4-H coordinators. 

Partnership with Schools & Universities

Workshop Title: “Lead the Future with UConn 4-H: Volunteer Opportunities for Millennials & Gen Y” 

• Organize information sessions at universities and community colleges. Present a short workshop on the leadership and career benefits of volunteering with 4-H. 

• Offer participation certificates for students who attend the workshop, which they can add to their resumes or LinkedIn profiles. 

Brochure: Distribute brochures in student unions or career centers. Include stories of current young volunteers and how their experiences with 4-H have helped them in their careers (e.g., leadership, public speaking, project management).

Email Campaign

Create a targeted email campaign to attract potential volunteers. 

• Subject Line: “Looking to Make a Difference? Join UConn 4-H as a Volunteer!” 

• Body: 

• Intro: "We’re reaching out to passionate individuals like you who want to inspire and mentor the next generation. UConn 4-H needs volunteers to help lead STEM projects, agricultural clubs, and more." 

• Key Points: Highlight the flexible nature of volunteering, community impact, and personal growth opportunities. 

• Call to Action: "Join our team today by filling out a quick interest form [link]." 

Include testimonials or quotes from millennial and Gen Y volunteers.

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These resources are designed to resonate with the values and lifestyles of millennials and Gen Y, emphasizing flexibility, personal growth, and the chance to give back to their communities.  

Title: "Your Feedback Matters: Help Us Improve UConn 4-H Volunteering!" 

Introduction: 

"Thank you for taking a moment to share your thoughts. Your feedback will help us better support you and improve the volunteer experience!" 

Estimated time: 2-3 minutes. 

Questions: 

1. What do you need to succeed as a 4-H volunteer? 
2. (Short answer) 
3. What’s working well in your current volunteer experience? (Short answer) 
4. What’s not working or could be improved? (Short answer) 
5. Any other insights or suggestions to share with us? (Optional short answer) 

End Message: 

"Thank you for your valuable input! Your feedback helps shape the future of UConn 4-H." 

Distribution: 

• Platform: Google Forms, Typeform, or any mobile-friendly tool. 

• Channels: Email, text, social media (with direct link or QR code). 

• Frequency: Quarterly or after major events. 

This feedback form keeps it quick, targeted, and user-friendly for millennials and Gen Y.