MU Extension salutes its volunteers

Column by Eric Jackson, University of Missouri Extension director of risk and volunteer management, and Curt Wohleber, strategic communications associate, MU Extension.

During National Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 20-26, we celebrate the people who help University of Missouri Extension carry out its mission. From mentoring young people to restoring landscapes and guiding local programs, MU Extension volunteers extend our reach and deepen our impact.

Volunteers who shape the next generation

Missouri 4-H would not have the same impact without its nearly 6,000 volunteers. They guide club meetings, teach hands-on skills, judge contests, mentor youths and help ensure that 4-H members are truly “Beyond Ready” for leadership, careers and life.

Last year, Missouri 4-H volunteers contributed more than 600,000 service hours, valued at $21.8 million. The return on that investment can also be found in the confidence of a young person standing in the show ring for the first time, in the discovery sparked by a hands-on STEM activity, in the leadership skills that follow youths well into adulthood.

For volunteers, the rewards are equally powerful. Many tell us they find joy in mentoring youths and appreciate the sense of accomplishment that comes from seeing “their” kids grow into capable young adults.

Volunteers who nurture food, beauty and community

Last year, more than 2,000 MU Extension Master Gardeners (EMGs) volunteered almost 150,000 hours of service valued at more than $5 million.

EMGs answer gardening questions from the public, maintain demonstration gardens, host events, support environmental stewardship and supply Missouri food pantries and soup kitchens with fresh produce. They also hand out seeds, distribute pollinator-friendly native plants, maintain community gardens and represent the program at events like festivals and workshops. Their motto, “Helping others learn to grow,” reflects their role in training future Master Gardeners and sharing their experience with others.

Volunteers who protect Missouri’s natural resources

In partnership with the Missouri Department of Conservation, MU Extension supports 13 Missouri Master Naturalist chapters across the state.

In 2025 alone, almost 1,000 Master Naturalists volunteered more than 82,000 hours, valued at more than $3.3 million. Their efforts support ecological restoration, citizen science, education and community outreach.

But the numbers still tell only part of the story. These volunteers help restore prairies and woodlands, lead nature hikes for families, teach youths about Missouri ecosystems and help with research that supports long-term conservation.

Volunteers who ensure local needs guide our work

Our elected MU Extension county council members devote their time to making sure MU Extension programs stay connected to the changing needs of the communities. County councils provide local perspective, help steward resources and bolster the connection between MU Extension and every Missourian. They also donate their time and experience in support of local events and programming.

Their service ensures that our work is not only research-based but also rooted in real-world needs, from agriculture and youth development to health, business and community vitality.

Volunteers who inspire lifelong learning

The volunteer instructors for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Mizzou help older adults continue learning, explore new ideas and build meaningful connections.

Through in-person, remote and hybrid programs, Osher instructors share their expertise in topics like history, science, art, current events and personal enrichment. Many are retired educators, professionals or community members who donate their time to design courses and foster thoughtful exchange among learners. Last year, more than 100 volunteer instructors taught for Osher. Some Osher members volunteer to serve on committees that help advise and guide the program.

For Osher members, classes offer mental stimulation and social connection. For instructors, the experience can be equally rewarding. Many describe the joy of sharing knowledge, staying mentally engaged and being part of a vibrant learning community.

Volunteers who provide taxpayer assistance and counseling

MU Extension’s Missouri Taxpayer Education Initiative provides training and financial education to volunteers, who then become certified by the IRS to prepare taxes. These services are provided for free to people in some parts of Missouri through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs.

Volunteering matters more than ever

At a time when many are searching for connection and purpose, volunteering offers a path to both. When people volunteer, they build relationships, strengthen civic life and create more resilient communities.

As we mark National Volunteer Month and National Volunteer Appreciation Week, we encourage Missourians think about how they might give back. Whether you have a little time or a lot, whatever your interests or expertise, there is a place for you.

Where to find volunteer opportunities

MU Extension offers many ways to get involved, but we also celebrate volunteerism in all its forms.

MU Extension volunteer opportunities

• Missouri 4-H
• Extension Master Gardeners
• Missouri Master Naturalists
• MU Extension councils
• Osher@Mizzou
• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (Kansas City area)

Find other volunteer opportunities

• Search for local needs through community organizations, schools, faith-based groups, food banks and public parks.
• Explore online volunteer-matching platforms such as Points and Light and Idealist.

Related story: Celebrating service to Missouri during National Volunteer Month