In addition to its experts throughout the state, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension is powered by thousands of volunteers who give generously to extend program impact and reach in support of UGA Extension missions.
Throughout National Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 20-26, UGA Extension will host special events and social media posts that highlight the volunteers who have donated their time to facilitate 4-H, Master Gardener, and Family and Consumer Sciences programming.
Serving Georgia 4-H
During the 2024 program year, Georgia 4-H adult and teen volunteers from across the state dedicated more than 173,434 hours — an equivalent value of more than $5.4 million — to youth development through 4-H programs, activities and events. More than 6,500 adult and teen 4-H volunteers gave their time, including 1,500 adult chaperones for events, 1,400 teen program leaders, 900 certified judges, and 400 youth club leaders, plus many others who played key roles.
Without these volunteers and the time that they so willingly share, young people would not be able to attend summer camp, participate in Project Achievement competitions, or develop life skills in a wide range of clubs.
In recognition of outstanding volunteer service, Georgia 4-H honored C.J. Lee of Glynn County with the 2025 Georgia 4-H Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer and Kristen Quinton with the 2025 Georgia 4-H Volunteer of the Year Award during the annual 4-H Salute to Excellence ceremony.
C.J. Lee has spent more than 20 years volunteering with 4-H in Glynn County. A former 4-H’er himself, he started giving back right after graduating high school. He’s served on the 4-H Advisory Council, raising money to help send kids to camp. Every year, he uses his vacation time to chaperone at camps around the state. Known for boosting camper spirit by dressing up in costume, Lee also mentors younger members for Project Achievement and other competitions. He regularly attends after-school meetings and jumps in to help staff whenever needed.
Kristen Quinton, a Bibb County 4-H volunteer, was named Georgia 4-H Volunteer of the Year. She’s considered a cornerstone of the Bibb County program. A well-respected attorney, Quinton has led “Law Days” to help 4-H’ers learn about careers in law and law enforcement. She also launched the county’s S.A.F.E. BB team and started its first archery team in 2022. Quinton visited more than 600 students at Title I schools to promote archery and grow her team. She keeps the program affordable — just $30 per season — so cost isn’t a barrier for kids who want to join.
Lee and Quinton represent a fraction of the creativity and specialized talents that volunteers generously offer to increase the impact that can be made through our programs in Georgia. Volunteers across Extension contributed more than 330,000 hours — the equivalent of more than 159 full-time employees — in 2024. Several Extension volunteers, like Lee and Quinton, have been recognized for their achievements and dedication to volunteerism.
Family and Consumer Sciences volunteers strengthen community programs
In 2024, nearly 2,000 adult and youth volunteers supported Extension Family and Consumer Sciences programs across Georgia. Of the 1,930 total volunteers, 1,709 were adults and 221 were youth. Volunteers gave 5,886 hours of service to support the Expanded Food and Nutrition Program, a contribution valued at more than $176,000.
Rebecca Thomas, Family and Consumer Resources agent in Chattooga County, praised the contributions of volunteers and the impact they make.
“Our volunteers are instrumental in bringing family and consumer sciences to life,” Thomas said. “They don’t just supplement our work — they amplify it, bringing their diverse skills, community partnerships and passion to extend our educational impact. Their hands-on assistance makes complex concepts accessible and engaging for all audiences. I am very thankful for their insights to ensure our programs are evidence-based, creating educational experiences that truly resonate with participants.”
In northwest Georgia, one volunteer, a county commissioner, was so inspired by the experience of assisting with food preservation classes that they donated $135,682 to renovate the Extension office’s kitchen. The commissioner continues to volunteer, showing how strong community partnerships can enhance educational outreach.
Master Gardeners drive horticulture education
In Agriculture and Natural Resources programs, Master Gardener Extension Volunteers provide critical support, speaking directly to more than 200,000 Extension clients, providing timely garden advice and helping solve problems. During the 2024 calendar year, more than 2,000 active MGEVs from across the state contributed 157,480 hours, at a value exceeding $5.2 million, to support Extension programming in consumer horticulture. In addition, these volunteers devoted more than 23,480 hours to continuing education to keep their training current and skills sharp.
Created in 1973 to expand Extension’s ability to respond to garden and landscape inquiries and educational needs, Master Gardeners provide timely and essential resources to gardeners. “Extension simply cannot do without Master Gardeners,” said Sheri Dorn, state Extension Master Gardener Volunteer coordinator.
Master Gardeners lead research-based gardening programs, develop demonstration gardens for hands-on learning, and staff Ask-a-Master-Gardener booths at farmers markets throughout the growing season. These efforts provide thousands of residents with access to expert gardening advice. Master Gardeners write weekly newspaper columns, assist homeowners with horticulture questions, and organize educational events.
Across counties, they support outreach through social media, sharing content on native and invasive plants. Master Gardener contributions significantly expand the reach of Agriculture and Natural Resources programs beyond what agents can achieve alone. In Towns and Union counties, their efforts are equivalent to 2.5 full-time employees annually.
More than 240 recognition awards were given to Master Gardeners for years of service, including 96 five-year, 82 10-year, 34 15-year, 11 20-year, one 30-year, and five 35-year awards. Volunteer Week celebrations will include a social media campaign showcasing key volunteers and their contributions to program areas and educational projects throughout the state.
UGA Extension translates the science of everyday living for farmers, families and communities to foster a healthy and prosperous Georgia. To contact your local county Extension office and get involved, visit extension.uga.edu.
