The Cumberland County Extension Service invests significant resources in volunteer development and program administration. Volunteers are crucial to many Extension programs, taking on various roles and responsibilities. The success of these programs is largely due to the dedication of numerous volunteers (Smith, Dasher, & Klingborg, 2005). The Cumberland County 4-H Youth Development program offers extensive educational opportunities to volunteer leaders through the Kentucky Volunteer Forum (KVF), certifications, and local orientation workshops that incorporate the latest research on the science of learning and brain development.

Effective leadership training is vital for strengthening 4-H organizations (Van Horn, Flanagan, & Thomson, 1999). Education prepares volunteers for their roles and should enhance their knowledge and skills (Kerka, 2003). Volunteer education develops the competencies needed for volunteers to perform their roles effectively (Brudney, 1990; Culp, 1997; Cumming, 1998; Wilson, 1976). Volunteers respond more positively to roles and responsibilities when they understand and can perform the required tasks (Hoover & Connor, 2001).

The Kentucky Volunteer Forum is the premier event for volunteer education in the commonwealth. Its purpose is to enhance the capacity of volunteer and salaried staff to contribute to the mission of Kentucky 4-H. Programs and workshops at KVF provide updates on rules and policies, teach best practices, and introduce new teaching and learning techniques. The goals of the KVF include:

• Sharing cutting-edge information through workshops and educational opportunities.
• Providing networking opportunities for volunteers from different counties and states.
• Introducing new programs, projects, events, activities, and changes in rules or procedures.
• Offering opportunities for volunteers to receive Accreditation and Master Volunteer status.
• Providing continuing education opportunities.
• Reenergizing and inspiring volunteers.
• Recognizing volunteers, businesses, and organizations that significantly impact the Kentucky 4-H program and the lives of youth in the commonwealth.

In February 2024, the KVF was held in Lexington, Kentucky, at the newly renovated convention center. 12 individuals from Cumberland County attended, including local school administrators, after school program coordinators, teachers, 4-H project leaders, and new volunteers. After returning from the KVF, the new attendees reported they "were excited to get started using all the new information they learned. As a result, a new Animal Science club was launched. Currently the club has 41 members with youth completing poultry projects, ham projects, horse project and dog projects. The KVF empowers volunteers to make a difference.