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).

The motivation and retention of volunteers are increasingly important to organizations that depend on adult volunteers (Van Horn, Flanagan, & Thomson, 1999). Effective training programs enable volunteer leaders to develop sets of skills, receive rewards, and experience social affiliation. These are all key motivators for adult volunteer leader participation and retention (Hall, 1995; Rouse & Clawson, 1992). 

Programs and workshops offered at the KVF are continually updated, rules and policies are shared and explained, best practices are taught, and new teaching and learning techniques are introduced. The KVF seeks to:

• Share cutting-edge information through workshops and educational opportunities.
• Provide networking opportunities for volunteers from different counties and states.
• Introduce new programs, projects, events, activities, and rule or procedure changes.
• Provide opportunities for volunteers to receive Accreditation and Master Volunteer status.
• Provide continuing education opportunities.
• Reenergize and inspire volunteers.

Recognize those volunteers, businesses, and organizations that have made a significant impact upon the Kentucky 4-H program and the lives of youth in the commonwealth.

Seventy (70) individuals completed requirements for Volunteer Accreditation or Master Volunteer Accreditation.  A total of 74 Volunteer Accreditations were granted, including: Cloverbuds (4), Crafts (3), Electricity (4), Embroidery (9), Fine Arts (4), Foods (10), Forestry (5), Horticulture (9), Leadership (3), Performing Arts (1), Photography (3), Poultry (7), Rabbits (4), Robotics (2), SET (2), and Water (4).   Additionally, 31 Master Volunteer Accreditations were granted, including: FCS (7), Fine Arts (4), Horticulture (5), Leadership (3), Natural Resources (6), Rabbits (4), SET (3). Out of those 74 Volunteer Accreditations,  Gallatin County had 8:  Cloverbuds, Foods, Poultry, Water, Embroidery, Rabbits, Electricity, and one Masters in SET.  Because of this new program, volunteers in Gallatin County came back excited to either start new clubs or improve the clubs that are already  being offered.  One volunteer was very excited to start several different cooking activities such as Recipes for Life and the Culinary Challenge. Another brought back ideas for the 4-H Rabbit Club. All the attendees except for one, attended the forum for the first time and they are already talking about the Kentucky Volunteer Forum in 2022.