~~According to the Corporation for National and Community Civic Engagement, volunteerism is the cornerstone of a strong nation.  When considering volunteerism in local communities, Kentucky is ranked 36 of the 50 states and has only an average of 23.5% residents volunteering. In Breckinridge County local stakeholders continue to identify leadership development as a significant need to help advance community economic development and employment opportunities. The 2017-18 the local Extension Plan of Work included a plan to engage local leaders through volunteer opportunities and leader trainings. In September 2017 the Extension Homemakers conducted the annual officer training.  Officers, chairmen and members gathered to learn and engage in leadership development activities that would prepare them for a year-long service to the organization and the community.  Extension staff provided leadership resources through officer handbooks, a 12-month program plan, and report forms.  The training also provided instruction and opportunity for the leadership to share program ideas and learn about state level programming.  With the continued development of local Homemaker leadership, an increased number of members are engaging in area and state leadership roles such as area secretary, area chairmen and KEHA State Chair for Leadership Development.  With post program evaluations, all participants reported an increased understanding of 2017-18 KEHA programming emphasis and the impact from the previous year reports.  Also all member reported they gained useful information that would be used to fulfill their leadership role in their club, county and/or area for the upcoming program year.  The Extension Service provided the safe, supportive, environment for volunteers to explore and strengthen their leadership skills which leads to asset building in Breckinridge County and in Kentucky.