4-H leaders: Factors that affect their persistence in the 4-H youth development program

The study explored the factors that influence the retention of 4-H volunteer leaders in the St. Joseph County 4-H youth development program and also explored if the relationship between former 4-H volunteer leaders and current 4-H volunteer leaders. In-depth interviews were conducted, artifacts examined, and observational data collected. The study also applied qualitative data to a Volunteer Process Model. Four themes and one emerging theme materialized from the data. Practical applications, recommendations and limitations of the study were discussed.