Volunteers play integral roles in 4-H programs, performing a variety of duties, functions, and tasks and possessing varied and rich knowledge, skills, and backgrounds (Radhakrishna & Ewing, 2011). The success of Extension programming is due, in part, to the dedication of a large cadre of volunteers (Smith, Dasher, & Klingborg, 2005). Although highly valued, volunteer involvement does not guarantee achievement of Extension's goals and fulfillment of learners' needs (Bolton, 1992).

4-H youth development programs within Extension depend heavily on adult volunteers and provide extensive education to volunteer leaders. 4-H traditionally focuses on positive youth development, but adult volunteers are the mainstay of the programs. A study of Ohio 4-H agents revealed that they believed orienting volunteers is important but lack information on whether their training programs or teaching strategies are effective (Deppe & Culp, 2001). Non-systematic training and the lack of volunteer recognition are two problems identified as crucial to the management of Extension volunteers (Navaratnam, 1986). Although the training received by Extension volunteers has been rated as "quality" when compared to other organizations (Braker, Leno, Pratt, & Grobe, 2000), the need to strengthen the design and implementation of 4-H training programs is ongoing.

Th Kentucky Volunteer Forum plays an integral role in providing recognition and development of important skills, updating new youth development concepts, and allowing for important idea sharing between volunteer individuals and groups. Garrard County, recognizing this tool and the usefulness to the proliferation of the local 4-H Youth Development Program, recruited attendees from club leadership and interested local youth and adults. 13 Attendees from Garrard County, setting a new attendance record for the county, produced two Master Accredited Volunteers, one Accredited Volunteers, and nine volunteers who praised the experience and have plans for implementation during the next programming year.