Master Gardener Extension Volunteers

GOAL OF MASTER GARDENER PROGRAM:

The Master Gardener program in Georgia is a volunteer training program designed to help University of Georgia Cooperative Extension staff transfer research-based information about gardening and related subjects to the public by training home gardeners. Through this program, Cooperative Extension is able to reach out and serve more citizens with educational programming and demonstrations. Master Gardener Extension Volunteers complement, enhance, and support on-going Agriculture and Natural Resources educational programs using applied research and the resources of University of Georgia.  The Georgia Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program is a county-based volunteer program designed as an educational program delivery system and teaching resource to assist Cooperative Extension with the main goal of addressing community non-commercial, horticulture and gardening issues and needs.

VOLUNTEER QUALIFICATIONS:

• Available 90 hours in the first year for training and project implementation (25 hours each year thereafter)
• Interest in teaching Georgians about horticulture and gardening
• Basic knowledge of gardening and horticulture preferred
• Enthusiasm
• Ability to communicate with others
• Knowledge of community resources
• Previous volunteer experience a plus

VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Participate in appropriate orientation, training, planning, and evaluation sessions (completing the required 40 hours of classroom training before volunteering), and keep up-to-date on the latest horticulture information.
• Complete a University of Georgia Volunteer Agreement and background screening.
• Provide reliable, unbiased information in accordance with published Cooperative Extension resources.
• Promote awareness of Cooperative Extension.
• Maintain records of volunteer service, including hours volunteered, contributions, and results. Report records to the Agent, coordinator, or other supervisor as directed.
• Wear an official UGA Master Gardener Extension Volunteer nametag while volunteering on behalf of UGA.
• Exercise personal integrity as a volunteer.
• Uphold the policies and follow the procedures of the UGA CAES MG Extension Volunteer Program.
• Follow through with completion of educational programs/projects, communicating about problems and successes.
• Identify needs for training and participate as a team member of UGA CAES Extension.
• Participate in approved UGA Extension projects. Indicate on the attached sheet the projects/teams in which you are interested in volunteering.

Training and/or Resources to be provided:
• Master Gardener Extension Volunteer training sessions (40 hours)
• Periodic organizational/ educational meetings
• Master Gardener Extension Volunteer reference manuals available for use in office
• Horticulture library in office
• Consultations with Cooperative Extension staff

TIME ESTIMATE:
• Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Training:  40 hours
• Volunteer Service:  50 hours (about 4-5 hours per month) minimum during the first year after training
• Periodic organizational/ educational meetings: 1-2 hours per month

BENEFITS:
• Participate in training programs in all aspects of basic horticulture.
• Learn new skills and sharpen old ones.
• Meet and work with other individuals interested in horticulture.
• Receive basic program materials at minimal cost.