Having a successful first year in 4-H greatly increases the probability of continued enrollment. In order for a first year member to succeed, they and their parents may need assistance with project completion guidelines, exhibit requirements, journal completion, meeting participation and public presentation planning. If a family is new to 4-H, this list seems insurmountable at first. The solution could be as simple as the experienced 4-H member sitting right next to them. Implementing a buddy program provides a leadership opportunity as important to the experienced member as the assistance given to the new 4-H family.

Clover buddies do not have to be teens. They can be any 4-H member willing to step up to a small leadership role at the club meeting. Three successful years in 4-H provides enough experience for a willing youth to give encouragement, friendship and act as a role model to a less experienced member. Even the youngest buddy can provide an account of what happens during Achievement Days and describe past 4-H project exhibits they enjoyed completing. Together, clover buddies can navigate the mysteries of a club meeting, compose journal entries, or team up to do the required public presentation. Older clover buddies may take on larger roles, such as creating simplified judging classes for first timers, providing spelling assistance, or befriending a shy eight year old. Building a sense of belonging and providing a friendly face to ask questions of may be the reason why a family chooses to continue their 4-H journey.