How to Conduct a 4-H Business Meeting

There are certain procedures that should be followed for 4-H business meetings.

4-H clubs are civic organizations that are maintained throughout the United States and Europe. The main function of 4-H clubs is to provide an empowering and educational experience for its youth members through projects, assignments and mentoring partnerships with adult members. As part of the organizational structure of the 4-H association, business meetings are held on a regular basis---typically monthly or biweekly. These meetings are typically conducted by members who hold a leadership position, such as the president or vice president, in the club.

Instructions

1. Initiate preliminary meeting formalities. These formalities consist of the "call to order," "roll call" and the "reading of the minutes." A call to order occurs when the meeting leader announces that he is ready to start the meeting. The roll call is a procedure where the club members are called by name and provide a response if they are present. During this time, the secretary should read the meeting minutes from the last meeting and time is given for any additions or corrections that need to be made.

2. Present officer and committee reports. After the preliminary meeting formalities are complete, the officers will present any relevant reports that have been prepared. Reports may consist of the financial status of the organization, ideas for new club projects or proposed events for the club to participate in.

3. Discuss any new or unfinished business. If any of the club members have topics they wish to discuss, they should be given a chance to present their ideas, comments or concerns during this time. Additionally, if a topic for group discussion was held over from the last meeting, it should be discussed at this time.

4. Make plans for the next meeting. Any officer or club member may make suggestions or plans that will be included in the next meetings agenda. Once all topics have been discussed and the club members have had a chance to make suggestions, the meeting will be adjourned by the president of the club or the business meeting facilitator if the president is not present.

References

• University of Nebraska: Conducting a 4-H Meeting, Business Meeting
• Ohio 4-H Club: Advisors Handbook