The Extension Master Gardener program is a volunteer organization dedicated to teaching and training people about horticulture related topics. This program is a part of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service and assists county extension agents in providing education and outreach in the community.  Master Gardeners are required to undergo training and complete 40 hours of volunteer service in their first year before becoming certified.  After the first year, Master Gardeners are required to complete 20 hours of service and 10 continuing education credit hours annually in order to continue their certification.  

The global pandemic brought about many challenges when it came to volunteerism.  Despite limitations due to COVID-19, the Pennyroyal Master Gardener Association was able to still serve the community in education and outreach.  The association reported that 30 volunteers completed a total of 1478 service hours and 410 continuing education hours.  According to Independent Sector, the 2021 dollar value of volunteer time in Kentucky was $24.83 per hour.  Based on this rate, the volunteer service of the Pennyroyal Master Gardeners holds to $36,698.74 in value.