Building the capacity of volunteer leaders within counties is critical for the sustainability of a community infrastructure that supports long term commitment to strengthen families. Within Scott County there are over 550 Extension Homemaker members who share their expertise and volunteer time with youth and families. Six of these volunteers have completed extensive training to become Certified Master Clothing Volunteers. These volunteers are experts in their field of study and give back to their communities by leading programs and teaching others both basic and advanced sewing skills, leading to more self sufficiency within our homes. 

Scott County MCV Collene Coyle has had a passion for quilting for many years. Training she received through the Cooperative Extension Service's MCV program gave her the confidence to share this passion with others. Scott County FCS Agent Whitney Hilterbran collaborated with Coyle to implement a beginning quilting program in Scott County. This program was originally scheduled to be six hands on sessions, meeting once monthly. The goal was for participants to gain basic quilting skills, complete a quilted wall hanging, and have reference materials.

The program was marketed through traditional methods of digital and hard copy newsletters which targeted traditional extension audiences. The series was also advertised to new audiences, especially millennials, using social media. The first night of the class we had an overwhelming response of over 50 individuals in attendance. 

The original series has concluded and plans are in place to create an advanced quilting class for those who wish to continue learning the trade. Of the twenty participants who attended all classes in the series 100% reported an increase in knowledge and skills they plan to use in their home. Additionally, 65% of participants have already signed up to take the second part of the series. 

By teaching skills such as quilting local leaders are empowering others to be volunteers, teachers, and leaders within their community. Moreover, the impact of extension programming is evident in the homes of these individuals practicing their newly learned skills leading to more self sufficiency.