Category: Cooperative Extension
The power of time: the impact of UD Extension volunteers in the First State
April 27, 2023 Written by Katie Young
National Volunteer Month has special meaning at UD Cooperative Extension. With more than 70 Extension agents and staff throughout the state, we bring educational programs to a significant number of Delawareans. But reaching an entire state's population is inherently difficult. Limitations on capacity, funding and in-person programming are challenges to overcome. In all reality, Extension's incredible work couldn’t be done without the more than 3,000 volunteers who generously share their time and talents with communities across the First State!
Sharing knowledge, changing lives
Volunteerism in Extension looks a little different than you might expect. Because Extension focuses on “bringing university knowledge” to the citizens of Delaware, our volunteer programs offer hands-on, experiential education rather than service. This practice deviates quite a bit from many classic volunteering programs you may have in mind. You may think of programs where volunteers pick up trash or cook for the less fortunate. These programs are programs of service—and make no mistake, they are incredibly important!
But with a focus on education, UD Extension volunteers do things differently. For instance, our Master Gardener volunteers don’t build and maintain gardens for local schools; instead, they partner with teachers to plan a garden that meets the class’ needs and helps them establish the project with the hands-on assistance of staff and students. Then, the volunteers step back. They allow the school to maintain the garden and offer guidance and further education as needed. Similarly, rather than share healthy recipes with interested citizens, the Master Wellness volunteers bring cooking demonstrations directly to clubs and community organizations. They offer classes to members of the public so they can learn healthy cooking skills in a supportive, hands-on environment.
Areas of interest
With such a focus on education, our volunteers must know their focus areas inside and out. And they do. Our volunteers prove time and again that they are truly knowledgeable and talented individuals! Combining their existing expertise and additional training through Extension, our volunteers make a world of difference as:
- Master Gardeners,
- Master Naturalists,
- Master Beekeepers,
- Master Wellness volunteers,
- 4-H Health and Wellness ambassadors, and
- 4-H youth and adult volunteers.
If that seems like a fairly comprehensive list, that’s because it is! Our volunteers work on dozens of projects within UD Extension’s four main areas of focus: Health & Well-being; Sustainable Production Systems; 4-H, Personal and Economic Development; and Environmental Stewardship.
A history of volunteering with UD Extension
Today
Today, UD Extension volunteers assist Delawareans with everything from plant recommendations for your native garden to advising homeowners on pest control, helping workers to relieve stress and get moving during the workday, teaching kids and adults nutrition basics and assisting youth as they take their first steps into leadership roles within their communities.
While April is earmarked as Volunteer Recognition Month, we value every volunteer serving Delaware 365 days a year. Literally, tens of thousands of hours are donated to help Extension “extend knowledge and change lives.” As of 2022, this truly impressive number includes:
4692 volunteer hours completed by 57 Master Naturalists (including more than 7,400 hours since the program's inception in 2020!);
24,741 volunteer hours by Master Gardeners;
201 volunteer hours by 27 Master Wellness Volunteers; and
1,500 youth and adult volunteers running Delaware’s 4-H Clubs and projects.
It’s clear to see these volunteers are an invaluable part of the UD Extension team. As we prepare to close out volunteer appreciation month, we thank our volunteers for all that they do!
Video: Volunteer Appreciation April 2023: youtube.com/watch?v=buD669dHqVI
Getting involved with UD Cooperative Extension is an excellent way to support and improve your Delaware community. Whether you’re volunteering as a 4-H Adult Leader or donating to support your local Master Gardener program, UD Cooperative Extension is grateful to have your involvement!