According to data from the AmeriCorps, more than 250,000 Kentuckians volunteered their time, talent and effort to improve people’s lives.   Henderson County’s population is around 45,609 and the need for volunteers is more critical as programs expand. 

The Henderson County Extension office ended the year with a leadership appreciation program that was called “Henderson County Leadership Hall of Fame”.  We started the program in 2017.  Leaders were invited to attend a night of appreciation and awards ceremony where a leader from each program area was surprised with an overall award.   

Each Extension agent needs community members to assist in teaching or organizing programs, leading clubs and groups, assisting with events or activities, and providing input and guidance.  Volunteer opportunities include: Club Leaders, Project Club, Master Clothing, Extension Homemakers, and many others. 

The FCS Agent gave an award to a Homemaker and/or FCS supporter.  The award goes to a person that shows program involvement and work with homemakers and/or FCS programming. The award went to a long time member who who is involved in  FCS programming, County Extension Council and Extension District Board.   

 Time is worth money.  One hour equal $27.20 per hour.  For just the 1 award winner that did 25 hours a year would be worth over $680 value a year and $3400 in a five-year period. From 2017 to 2022  a total of over 75 awards have been given out.  That would equal a value total of $28,560 based on 25 volunteer hours in a five-year period.