Washington State University Extension

4-H Adventure Education

4-H Rite of Passage

Adult Leadership Training Program

Washington State 4-H Youth Development Program

How to become a 4-H Rite of Passage Guidegroup of adult trainees

To become a 4-H Rite of Passage Leader, potential candidates must join 4-H, successfully complete all 3 levels of training, complete First Aid certification and become familiar with 4-H programs and philosophy.  Participants must also demonstrate knowledge and skills required to be an effective Rite of Passage guide.  See the requirements: Leader Certification Checklist

How long will it take for me to become a guide?

This will depend somewhat on the trainee’s skill level and will vary based on how often Rites of Passage are held, how many times the trainee is able to attend and whether or not the trainers feel the trainee is ready.  Starting with the 4-H Adult Rite of Passage, the entire process generally takes about two years.

  • Level 1 - Adult Training & Personal ROP
    The 4-H Adult Rite of Passage parallels the format of the 4-H Youth Rite of Passage with the additional task of learning the role of the facilitator. 
  • Level 2 Part A - Mirroring Workshop
    At least one time each year, a 3-day Mirroring Workshop is offered to those who have completed the Level I Training.  The 3 days will be spent in a mixture of teachings, exercises and stories. 
  • Level 2 Part B - Basecamp Assistant
    After you have completed your own 4-H Rite of Passage, your next step is to assist in basecamp.  You can do this during either an adult or a youth trip.
  • Level 3 - Co-leading a 4-H Rite of Passage Trip
    Co-leading a trip with an experienced leader is a chance for you to apply all the skills and knowledge you have gained. 

 

Equipment

The trainers make no provisions for meals or accommodations.  Participants are responsible for their own meal preparation including cooking/eating utensils as well as a tent, sleeping bag etc. Download the suggestions for what to bring.

 

Trainee contemplating

Reading List

Required (Available upon registration)

  • 4-H Rite of Passage Technical Manual and Leader Guide
  • 4-H Rite of Passage Youth Handbook: Coming of Age in the Wilderness

Highly Recommended

  • The Roaring of the Sacred River, by Steven Foster and Meredith Little

Suggested

  • The Book of the Vision Quest: Personal Transformation in the Wilderness, by Steven Foster and Meredith Little
  • The Four Shields of Human Nature, by Steven Foster and Meredith Little
  • Betwixt & Between:  Patterns of Masculine and Feminine Initiation, by Louise Carus Mahdi 

 

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Contact Us, Toll Free: 866-458-0196; Pullman Office: 509-335-2981; Puyallup Office: 253-445-4550
WSU Extension State 4-H Office, P.O. Box 646248, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6248 USA