Success StoryLeadership Development



Leadership Development

Author: Amanda Sublett

Planning Unit: Marion County CES

Major Program: Community Leadership Development

Plan of Work: Develop Individuals for Volunteer Roles

Outcome: Initial Outcome

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. 

The Marion County Extension Council had a membership of twenty-six individuals. Two County Extension Council Meetings have been held with members suggesting potential new members.  Six new members were recruited and agreed to serve on the council. Along with the Agriculture Agent we took the suggestions of potential members and ensured that each program area was equally represented as well as geographic area of the county was represented.  New members will be trained, and a rotation system will be put in place.

Two new leaders were recruited to attend the Livestock, Horse and Dog Certification Workshop this past December and will be the new leaders of the Livestock Club.  







Stories by Amanda Sublett


4-H Camp Develops Life Skills

about 1 years ago by Amanda Sublett

Youth who attend 4-H Camp acquire vital leadership skills, learn responsibility, and gain social int... Read More


4-H Summit Builds Life Skills

about 1 years ago by Amanda Sublett

According to research, middle school is a time where young people find their place in this world, th... Read More


Stories by Marion County CES


Area Homemaker Kick Off

Area Homemaker Kick Off

about 1 years ago by Brittany Thomas

In August of 2021, the Lincoln Trail Area Extension Homemakers conducted a SWOT analysis at their ar... Read More


4-H Camp Develops Life Skills

about 1 years ago by Amanda Sublett

Youth who attend 4-H Camp acquire vital leadership skills, learn responsibility, and gain social int... Read More