Dear 4-H Volunteers,
Thank you for your dedication to West Virginia 4-H and the youth you serve. Your commitment helps create safe, positive, and welcoming environments where young people can learn, grow, and thrive.
To support WVU's ongoing commitment to youth safety, the University has updated and simplified its Youth Protection Training requirements The revised training aligns with current federal guidance and best practices for recognizing, preventing, and reporting suspected child abuse and neglect.
A major improvement is that volunteers will now complete one streamlined Youth Protection Training instead of multiple separate trainings. The new course takes approximately 45 minutes, includes examples and guidance more relevant to volunteers, and is easier to access and complete than the previous process. This updated approach reduces complexity while ensuring volunteers receive current information and expectations each year.
What this means for you
- If your current Youth Protection Training is valid through December 31, 2026, no action is needed at this time.
- Beginning January 1, 2027, all 4-H volunteers must complete the updated WVU Youth Protection Training, regardless of any previous expiration date.
- Starting in 2027, Youth Protection Training will be required annually rather than every three years.
- All training certifications will expire on December 31 each year and must be renewed annually to maintain volunteer eligibility.
- Your county 4-H office will work with you to provide information and guidance on the Youth Protection Training, including the process for obtaining the link needed to participate in the training.
- If your current training expires before January 1, 2027, please contact your county 4-H office for guidance.
Thank you for your continued service to West Virginia youth and for helping WVU Extension and West Virginia 4-H provide safe, positive, and enriching experiences for all participants.