Volunteers play integral roles in 4-H programs, performing a variety of duties, functions, and tasks and possessing varied and rich knowledge, skills, and backgrounds (Radhakrishna & Ewing, 2011). The success of Extension programming is due, in part, to the dedication of a large cadre of volunteers (Smith, Dasher, & Klingborg, 2005). Although highly valued, volunteer involvement does not guarantee achievement of Extension's goals and fulfillment of learners' needs (Bolton, 1992).

Education is critical in preparing volunteers for the role they accepted and should be designed to enhance their knowledge and skills (Kerka, 2003). Volunteer education develops the knowledge and skills volunteers need to execute their roles effectively (Brudney, 1990; Culp, 1997; Cumming, 1998; Wilson, 1976). Volunteers respond more favorably to roles and responsibilities when they understand and are able to perform the tasks required of them (Hoover & Connor, 2001). Therefore, volunteers need meaningful education opportunities (Fox, Hebert, Martin, & Bairnsfather, 2009). Ineffective volunteer development opportunities result in poorly executed programs and disgruntled volunteers (Cook, Kiernan, & Ott, 1986).

Education, then, is a necessary component of volunteer administration. Multiple volunteer administration models provide a framework for strong, effective volunteer programs (Boyce, 1971; Brudney, 1990; Campbell & Ellis, 1995; Culp, Deppe, Castillo, & Wells, 1998; Naylor, 1973; Penrod, 1991; Scheier, 1985; Smith & Bigler, 1985; Vineyard, 1981; Wilson, 1976). Although education is a critical component of every volunteer administration model (Fox et al., 2009), Deppe and Culp (2001) found that 4-H programs often lack a structured volunteer development program. When offered, volunteer training is usually formal and focuses on skill development for current or newly accepted roles (Serafino, 2001). However, most volunteers receive little formal training, participating instead in on-the-job experiences and informal mentoring from other volunteers (Fletcher, 1987).

Education benefits volunteers, programs, and organizations in many ways. Education increases volunteer satisfaction and leads to stronger organizational commitment (Anderson, 2005; Wilson et al., 2007). Moreover, volunteer education increases program sustainability (Snider, 1985) and is a powerful recruitment and retention tool, as a lack of training is an often-cited reason for high turnover rates among recruits (Fahey, Walker, & Lennox, 2003). Volunteer development benefits the organization by inspiring, motivating, and celebrating accomplishments (Wise & Ezell, 2003).

The Kentucky Volunteer Forum provides Extension volunteers with professional development opportunities to provide both introductory and continuing education to develop and enhance the skills and knowledge necessary for their volunteer role, to answer questions, and to provide a means to complete volunteer accreditation requirements as well as continuing education requirements for certified volunteers.

 Attending the Kentucky Volunteer Forum for Boyd County certified leaders has become a favorite anticipated event.  Each of the nine certified leaders discovered new club ideas and educational materials to incorporate in the upcoming program year.

The Kentucky Volunteer Forum is designed to satisfy three programming goals: delivering cutting edge educational opportunities in a variety of formats, providing networking opportunities to facilitate information exchange, and recognizing volunteers making the greatest impact on 4-H members and programs.  

Satisfying the educational goal were 223 educational workshops, divided into 23 content tracks.  Master Volunteer Accreditation offered specialized training in 9 core content areas, Seminars on Wheels provided volunteers with non-formal learning opportunities.  The Idea Share Fair included Service Projects; Educational, Commercial, & Entrepreneur exhibits, and 4-H members giving championship demonstrations.  

Twenty-three networking events enabled volunteers to visit with conference attendees and exchange information.  Separate awards were presented to adults and teens at two recognition events, based upon their contribution to and impact on the 4-H program.  150-10 year 4-H members were recognized.  The KVF is the centerpiece of KY’s 4-H volunteer program; 1229 people attended from all 120 of Kentucky’s 120 counties and 13 states.