UT TSU Extension – Knox County provides services and opportunities to the residents of our county. Our 4-H program serves students in various schools throughout Knox County as well as some county-wide and home-school groups. We are always looking for volunteers and financial sponsors to assist those children who would like to participate in events and camps but lack the financial resources.
How to become a Volunteer
There is something for everyone! Volunteers assist with events and fundraisers, chaperone, judge a wide variety of things such as speeches, talent, livestock, bread baking, demonstrations, etc. No matter what your interest is in, we are sure we can find a place for you.
There are 3 levels of adult volunteer participation. Below is a brief description of each level:
- Level 1 – Volunteers who wish to work behind the scenes with no direct contact with students.
- Level 2 – Volunteers who desire occasional interaction with students (without overnight involvement)
- Level 3 – Volunteers who wish to have direct/frequent contact and/or chaperone overnight events such as camps and conferences.
Listed below is the step-by-step process to become a Tennessee Extension Volunteer. To understand more about Tennessee Extension and about the important roles played by volunteers, you may view the Tennessee Extension Online Orientation Module (this is Step 4 in the process). A volunteer handbook is also available as a resource.
Step 1: Contact the office to discuss your level of involvement. Tennessee Extension Volunteers are designated as Level 1, 2, or 3. The level number is not a ranking, but is an indication of the level of involvement with minors. This level is determined by having a discussion with your County Office about your roles and responsibilities.
Step 2: Complete the Tennessee Extension Volunteer Application, based upon your volunteer level designation (1, 2, or 3). Download the applicable form(s) and submit to our County Office. See below for details:
Level 1 Volunteer: Complete Section 1 (Items A – E only) and read Section 2. Section 3 is optional.
Level 2 Volunteer: Complete Section 1 (all items) and read Section 2 and 4. Section 3 is optional.
Level 3 Volunteer: Complete Sections 1 and 5 (all items) and read Section 2 and 4. Section 3 is optional.
Step 3: View the Tennessee Extension Online Orientation Module (required one time only) if you have not done so already. No login required.
Step 4: (Level 3 Volunteer Only) Complete Child Protection Training either online in K@TE or face-to-face training presented by an Extension Agent (every two years). Click “request” then complete registration.
Step 5: (Level 3 Volunteer Only) Read and sign the TN Law on Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse (one time only).
Step 6: (Level 3 Volunteer Only) Complete the Online Level 3 Volunteer Training (one time only). Click “request” then complete registration.
Step 7: Complete program specific training that is required for your specific role. Some examples of program specific training include Health and Wellness Ambassadors, Master Gardeners, 4-H Shooting Sports Instructors, 4-H Camp Leaders, and others.
Once you have completed the required paperwork, please send to Lynnsey Fox at lynnseyfox@utk.edu
Volunteer Email List
Our volunteer email list is a great way to get started as a volunteer. You will get all the latest 4-H event information, asked to participate in a monthly Volunteer Leader meeting, and invited to various events during the year that allow us to show our appreciation! If you would like to be added to our volunteer email group, please email Jessica Raichl at jraichl@utk.edu
