N.C. Cooperative Extension of Forsyth County opens volunteer applications
The N.C. Cooperative Extension of Forsyth County is currently accepting applications for the Extension Master Gardener volunteer program initiall training class.
The application deadline is on Aug. 2.
The program volunteers are essential to the N.C. Cooperative Extension’s horticulture programs in Forsyth County. Extension Master Gardener volunteers are trained to be stewards of education and share their gardening knowledge with other community members. Volunteers have the opportunity to present programs to various age demographics, organize educational events, and help maintain N.C. Cooperative Extension gardens, and more.
The initial course will include 40 hours of instruction on horticultural topics and training to prepare participants to volunteer in extension programs. The classes will be held in person over several months. The initial training classes will start in October, with breaks for holidays. The final class and graduation are projected to be held in March 2025. All students in initial training are also required to complete a volunteer internship within a year.
When asked about the benefits of being an Extension Master Gardener, Anika Parks, the Volunteer Coordinator at the N.C. Cooperative Extension at the Forsyth County Center, cited the social and educational aspects of the program.
“One of the big benefits that brings a lot of our volunteers in is community. A lot of people come because of the education we’re able to give them and because of the volunteer opportunities we offer. There’s also a big community part to it. It’s a large group of individuals who work with each other on a weekly basis, volunteer together, and do educational events together. You’re just getting to know a lot of other people who have similar interests,” Parks said.
The N.C. Cooperative Extension of Forsyth County will be hosting informational sessions for people interested in becoming a Master Gardener. While no gardening knowledge is required, the prerequisites include a willingness to learn and volunteer with the staff and agents of the N.C. Cooperative Extension at the Forsyth County Center.
“Other benefits include getting a behind-the-scenes look at a lot of the N.C. Cooperative Extension programs. If they’re interested in teaching, we’re able to give them the chance to refine their skills, and their presentation, as well as help find them an audience,” Parks said.
The Master Gardener training program is dedicated to developing excellence in volunteers through continuing education, community outreach, and engagement. An initial training course is held once per year and is followed by a required year-long “internship” where new volunteers interact and connect with current volunteers and education opportunities with certified Extension Master Gardener Volunteers or EMGVs.
For more information on the program, information sessions on the program, and the link to the application, please visit:
https://www.eventbrite.com/o/nc-cooperative-extension-forsyth-county-20129918923