Master Gardener Program; Re-Envisioned

For several years, the Henderson Master Gardener program has seen declining numbers and declining active participation.  Starting with over 60 volunteers in 2016, 2020 ended with only 21 active volunteers.  The Master Gardener Association’s mission is education, but most members enjoy the social aspect just as much.  Learning from each other.

Mid 2020, the officers set up a committee to look at member recruitment and member retention.  Several meetings later, a member survey was sent out, data collected and summarized.  

Key points were identified: meetings last too long, new members were not welcomed into the existing group well, there are not enough in-service learning opportunities, meeting times and community projects were not clearly communicated, association leaders do not know their duties well, and new member trainings are not held regularly.

Early in 2021, the committee formulated a plan to address the issues from survey.  A leadership training program has been implemented for current and future leaders.  Starting fall, 2021, a defined schedule of in-service opportunities has been planned with topics, dates, and times set.

A mentor program has been organized where each new member is assigned a mentor to help encourage and engage new members.  In addition, the committee re-organized our annual awards dinner.

The Board of directors approved all recommendations from the committee and immediately began implementation.  All current board members attended the first leadership training learning about “how the run and effective meeting” and Roberts Rules of Order.