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

3.  Social Orientation  Position Orientation  System Orientation

4.  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.

5.  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

6. 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

7.  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.

8.  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

9.  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