Management of Extension Volunteers [microform] / K. K. Navaratnam

Volunteers play an important role in the activities of the Extension Service. The number of volunteers is increasing, as are the types of jobs they do. However, there are some typical problems in Extension volunteerism. A survey of county Extension agents identified the following problems related to management of Extension volunteers: lack of commitment, nonsystematic training, unrealistic expectations, lack of written statements, personality clashes, lack of recognition, and lack of supervision of volunteers. Many of these problems can be handled by applying management principles. Management functions that can improve a volunteer program include planning, organizing, staffing (recruiting and training volunteers), directing volunteer activities, and controling (evaluating) volunteers and providing recognition for them. Extension agents must be realistic in the management approach and not become overly ambitious in introducing these techniques in Extension volunteerism. However, a systematic approach can reduce the major concerns associated with the management of Extension volunteers. (KC)