Application Process
The application process for all team coaches and chaperones will be conducted using the interest form below. All chaperones must be:
- At least 21 years of age, 25 years of age if driving is required.
- Be a current, certified South Dakota 4-H volunteer or willing to complete the process prior to full acceptance as a coach/chaperone.
- Agree to adhere to the South Dakota Volunteer Code of Conduct and enforce the South Dakota 4-H Youth Code of Conduct.
- Complete the form no later than May 1.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Interest/knowledge in the subject matter of the trip
- Desire to work with senior age 4-H members
*Applications will open on October 1 for coaches and chaperones and must be received by May 1 of the current 4-H year. Applications received after May 1 will be considered for the following 4-H year.
Selection Process
Application for coaches/chaperones will be received by the State 4-H Office and managed by the 4-H Volunteer Development Field Specialist and 4-H Program Assistant. Applications will be distributed to 4-H professionals organizing the relevant national trip or state 4-H event. Selection will be based on:
- Interest form submission
- Interview with applicant
- References
Applicants will be selected and notified prior to the state event. For team coaches, selection will be before the qualifying event. All coaches will be asked to serve for one year but may be asked to serve again in future years.
Required Coach/Chaperone Training
- All selected coaches and chaperones will need to complete the volunteer certification process per H-R-19-03 becoming a 4-H Volunteer prior to the state qualifying event.
- 4-H professionals will conduct event-specific training prior to departure that includes event and travel details. The 4-H Volunteer Development Field Specialist will provide the template for training.
