MSU Extension Ottawa County

4-H Financials

The money 4-H groups receive from dues and fund-raising events is owned by the entire 4-H group, not by any one member or volunteer of the group. A group treasury is necessary if funds are maintained for group use. The public calls for a higher standard of accountability and integrity from public groups. For this reason, it is extremely important that all 4-H groups are transparent and show the source of any money they have received and how it was disbursed. It is very important that the required procedures for money management and reporting are followed and necessary forms are submitted to MSU Extension staff as requested, so the group’s records are complete and up to date.

• Each Michigan 4-H group that has a minimum of $100 (not including 4-H participation fees) in its treasury for more than 30 days is required to have a checking or savings account.
• If you plan to start a group treasury, be sure to notify your 4-H program coordinator.
• All 4-H groups must turn in an Annual Financial Summary (regardless of whether or not they have a treasury).

4-H Fundraisers

Fund-raising can be a double win for 4-H groups and their members – youth will learn valuable life skills and the group will add resources to its treasury for future educational opportunities. However, fund-raising should not be the main focus of group activities nor should it exclude any individual from participation. It should be done for the good of the total group and it should be consistent with Michigan 4-H’s fund-raising policies. An educational component needs to be part of all fund-raising activities and a group needs to be able to clearly state the educational value and purpose of the fund-raiser.

• 4-H groups must complete and submit a County 4-H Fundraiser Application for approval prior to the event.