An online article titled “UGA Extension celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Week” was written by state volunteer program coordinators, Sheri Dorn and Keri Hobbs, and published to Extension News. The article shared about the positive impact volunteers have in Georgia. Check out the complete article and read on below for pieces of the article focused on the Georgia Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Program.
During the 2020 calendar year, Master Gardener Extension Volunteers (MGEVs) from across the state contributed 111,065 hours — at a value of $3 million — to support Extension programming in consumer horticulture. These hours were the cumulative product of more than 2,200 MGEVs who meet state criteria for active status. In addition, these volunteers devoted more than 7,100 hours to continuing education to keep their information current and skills sharp.
Agents and program coordinators enjoy the enthusiasm and talents of MGEVs. “Someone once told me that the finest people I would meet are Master Gardeners. I know for a fact that is true,” says Karin Hicks, Master Gardener coordinator for UGA Extension in Hall County.
Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent and Coordinator Paul Pugliese in Bartow County said, “the Master Gardener program is a labor of love and service for the community.”
Alicia Holloway, ANR Extension agent for Barrow County, agrees. “No matter what the need, (MGEVs) are there and ready to make it happen.”
“Volunteers do not serve out of a desire for recognition. They serve because they want to make a difference. Appreciation from agents provides reassurance that MGEVs contribute in a meaningful and productive way,” says Sheri Dorn, state Extension Master Gardener Volunteer coordinator. “Master Gardeners tell me there is a certain sense of self-accomplishment that comes from helping others.”