Shelby County has long been known for having a strong volunteer base.  Many individuals who have not actively assumed leadership roles have been identified by agents as potential effective leaders.  In an effort to encourage these individuals, the ag agent and 4H agent worked together to develop the Leadership is M.O.R.E. program with the purpose of developing training materials and delivery methods that inspire volunteers to expand their roles and to seek out opportunities to develop leadership skills in themselves and in others. 

Agents sought to facilitate the development of feelings of ownership among volunteer leaders in Shelby County agriculture and 4-H program areas and councils and to enhance the effectiveness of project, program and council volunteers in Shelby County Extension.  The agents also aspired to supplement and expand on existing KELD materials in a way that makes the leadership development experience personal and specific to Shelby County Extension programming. 

Agents prepared the Leadership is M.O.R.E. resource manual by assembling original content, KELD materials and other research-based materials relative to the individual session topics.  Participants were also provided additional supporting materials such as a copy of Robert's Rules of Order In Brief.  The program was advertised via social media, newsletters and distribution of flyers, as well as through personal letters to targeted participants. 

Thirteen experienced and emerging leaders graduated in the inaugural class of Leadership is M.O.R.E.  Graduates were surveyed about their experience in the course and 86% of respondents indicated that as a result of the series they have become more aware of and/or interested in local leadership opportunities.  86% of respondents also reported that they have applied information they learned in one or more sessions to their own leadership development. 

Comments included, "This course was engaging and provided everything a person needs to be a competent leader;" "This topic (parliamentary procedure) is really important to our church business meetings.  At our next business meeting I intend to help make our sessions flow more smoothly;" "I had taken a number of leadership classes while working for the State.  The MORE program was by far the most comprehensive and interesting."