Organizing and Mobilizing a strong volunteer base is essential to Extension’s mission.

Social Orientation

Position Orientation

System Orientation

Goal: help new volunteers find a social comfort zone within new environment

Can include items such as: introductions, explanation of policies and helpful tips

The simplest type of orientation, and takes the least time and preparation.

Goal: for volunteers to understand their specific roles and responsibilities.

Agent should provide a volunteer position description, outlining specific details and expectations of their job

• A volunteer position description should include:– Title–Advisor– Purpose of the position–Benefits to the volunteer–Responsibilities–Qualifications and special skills– Time commitment–Resources and support available

Goal: to give information to new volunteers about the organization they are serving and their part in it.

Volunteers do not need to know all the facts and people, they need a “big picture” view of Extension’s history, mission and structure.

Volunteer System Orientation may include such items as:• Extension’s Mission• Definition of Cooperative Extension• Legislation that created and defined

Extension• Program areas supported by Extension• Other Extension volunteering opportunities• Extension policies and proceedures

Volunteers with needed competencies Volunteers that understand their role

and performance expectations within Extension

Volunteers that are more confident and motivated to fulfill their job responsibilities

Volunteers that will represent Extension well and serve as advocates for Extension