Code of Conduct for 4‑H in Canada

As a positive youth development organization, we are committed to providing 4‑H members with meaningful experiential learning opportunities within an environment that is safe, inclusive and fun for all involved. This is the responsibility of everyone involved in any 4‑H activity.

This Code of Conduct applies to: 

  • 4‑H youth members and their families;
  • 4‑H trained leaders and screened volunteers;
  • camp counsellors and youth leaders;
  • non-screened guests;
  • 4‑H staff and governing leadership;
  • 4‑H program partners; and
  • other participants or observers of 4‑H events.

I will:

Represent 4‑H and myself in a positive way

  • Use words, actions, and behaviours that are respectful, non-judgmental, and kind, towards all youth, leaders, volunteers, staff, families, and participants.
  • Honour the 4‑H Pledge and participate in the spirit of good sportsmanship, respecting rules and guidelines.
  • Ensure all actions, including social media activity, is positive and reflects the integrity of 4‑H.
  • Act with honesty and integrity when dealing with property, monies, and other assets being used for 4‑H purposes.
  • Respect other youth, leader, volunteer and staff’s, rights to privacy and the confidentiality of personal information.
  • Provide appropriate animal care according to industry codes of practice (nfacc​.ca).
  • Abide by all federal and provincial laws.

Promote a safe, inclusive, and fun environment

  • Be vigilant in ensuring an environment that is safe and protects youth, leaders, volunteers and staff from emotional, physical, verbal and sexual abuse.
  • Refrain from using drugs or alcohol during any 4‑H youth events.
  • Make all reasonable efforts to ensure equal opportunity and access to participation for all 4‑H youth members and abide by the 4‑H Canada’s Inclusion Statement.
  • Uphold the 4‑H motto ​“Learn To Do By Doing” in an environment that is friendly and fun.

Lead by example

  • Adhere to the policies and procedures of 4‑H Canada and provincial organizations.
  • Act as a positive role model.
  • Work collaboratively with all, including 4‑H members, families, fellow leaders and volunteers, staff, and guests.

In addition, trained leaders, screened volunteers, and staff will:

  • Fulfill their responsibilities as outlined in the position description, and act within the limitations of authority for the position.
  • Maintain the confidentiality of any information regarding 4‑H that was obtained as part of the position.

Acknowledgement 

Provincial councils, regions, districts, areas, associations and/​or clubs may have additional guidelines or policies. It is the responsibility of each 4‑H participant to familiarize themselves with the rules that pertain to their individual participation in 4‑H events and activities.