ST. CHARLES, Ill. – Volunteer power is a strong force and resource globally, nationally and locally. This National Volunteer Week, University of Illinois Extension celebrates its local volunteers – including 4-H leaders, Master Gardeners, Master Naturalists and those who serve in various other roles.
Last year alone, these 1,346 tri-county volunteers spent nearly 50,000 hours serving their communities. The value of that time is equivalent to $1.34 million dollars to DuPage, Kane and Kendall counties, according to Independent Sector Illinois.
“We value our volunteers' continued support and dedication to our communities,” said Deanna Roby-Vorgias, County Director of University of Illinois Extension, serving DuPage, Kane and Kendall counties. “Whether it is helping our young people build a positive future, teaching our neighbors to grow gardens, or increasing our awareness of natural resources, these fellow residents give selflessly to lead, educate and better our world.”
They do it because they care.
“Extension has provided us with an opportunity to engage with our neighbors in a greater understanding of gardening best practices, environmental issues and nature,” said DuPage County residents Michael and Judith Horsley, who are both part of the Master programs.
Magda Emmert, a Kendall County 4-H leader, said she volunteers because she wants to be actively involved with her children's development and that she wanted to help other youth and families.
“I value the multitude of projects, learning and service opportunities available through 4-H,” she said. “Being bilingual also enables me to open up opportunities for Spanish speaking families to be involved with 4-H.”
Each year, hundreds of tri-county volunteers share their time, talents and experiences with others through Extension programs and partnerships – from therapeutic horticulture with Master Gardeners to invasive species removal by Master Naturalists to community service projects led by 4-H volunteers.
“Even now, in this current situation, we see them still reaching out to help however they can,” said Roby-Vorgias. “As Extension volunteers, they may be answering gardening help desk questions via email, leading 4-H meetings through web conferencing, or sharing research-based knowledge on social media.”
If you would like to know more about how you can volunteer with Extension in DuPage, Kane or Kendall counties, visit https://extension.illinois.edu/dkk/volunteer