Many cultures share and pass on norms through storytelling (DePree, 1997; Hyvarinen, 2009; Mathison, 2005). Extension as a culture also creates and shares stories to pass on history, provide information about Extension work and experiences, and develop the organization (Peters & Franz, 2012). Sixty- two Purchase Area Extension Homemakers were trained in Influencing Others through Story Telling by the Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences through train the trainer formatted sessions. 

Effective leaders have learned that good illustrations can make a point. Stories can be used to train, mentor, and coach others. Stories of how others have dealt with change can be useful to help organizations manage their own change or communicate complex facts or basic truths. Extension Homemakers can utilize storytelling to strengthen communication skills, market their organization and recruit new members.

62 participants gained knowledge to develop effective storytelling skills in order to enhance leadership development opportunities.  These 62 participants then shared the information with 495 Purchase Area Extension Homemaker Club members to examine the value of storytelling as an effective communication tool, contrast storytelling themes used to relate truths or personal experiences and practice storytelling skills to improve potential for influencing others in leadership development situations.