Volunteers in Extension programs are vital to growing the services we provide to our community. They help us determine community needs, develop plans to address them, assist with implementation of programs, and oversee the county office’s budget. Through these actions, the volunteers are helping us lay the groundwork for future generations to carry on the work we have undertaken. 

As crucial as volunteers are to our programming, the time and effort they contribute often goes unrecognized. A 2023 study by Independent Sector revealed the estimated national value of each volunteer hour is $31.80.  Given the hundreds of hours Laurel County’s Extension volunteers commit each year, the value of their service and their positive impact on our community is immeasurable.  Additionally, a 2012 study by J. Y. Huynh, et al, (Engaged or Connected?)  determined that volunteers who receive feedback and feel appreciated feel a better connection to the organization and are more likely to continue volunteering.  The agents realized, however, that no standardized methods had been developed to show our appreciation and gratitude for our volunteers.

To address this need, agents and staff organized an annual banquet to highlight volunteer work from all Extension program areas.  The first event was held in December of 2023.  A group of 53 volunteers, Extension staff, and guests were in attendance.  After enjoying a catered meal, each Extension agent addressed the group and reviewed program and community accomplishments made possible with the help of our dedicated volunteers.  A Volunteer of the Year award was also established, with nominations to be determined by members of the Extension Council. The 2023 award was presented posthumously to the family of John Douglas Day, who was an active volunteer and had served in many volunteer roles since the 1960’s.  The award was accepted by Mrs. Day, who said, “Doug loved this community, and he enjoyed volunteering at Extension because he knew it made the community better for everyone.”   

The banquet will be an annual event held each December to gather, remember, and celebrate the significant role volunteers play in helping Extension programs grow and thrive. The overall goal is to maintain our current volunteer base and, through the recognition and demonstration of appreciation, encourage more people to engage with Extension as volunteer leaders.