Volunteers are among our most-treasured resources at SDSU Extension. From providing leadership opportunities for youth to advancing the technology skills of older generations, our volunteers help bridge the gap between research and community knowledge throughout South Dakota. With over 800,000 residents to serve, we seek out passionate individuals to help us accomplish what we cannot do alone. SDSU Extension volunteers participate in a variety of service programs through our organization, helping us expand the scope and effectiveness of our mission. In exchange for their service, volunteers receive training on a wide array of topics of interest to them. To learn more, select the program of interest to you below.
Master Volunteers
The term “Master Volunteer” is bestowed upon individuals that complete SDSU Extension training in a specific discipline and make a volunteer service commitment. These master volunteers then use what they have learned to facilitate Extension educational programming in their communities, sharing their expertise and providing services to South Dakota’s citizenry.
All SDSU Extension master volunteers:
- Must complete a certain number of hours of specialized training in a specialized subject,
- Be able to lead community education programs in that subject, and
- Commit to giving at least 40 hours of service in their subject area.
Master volunteers may teach youth or adults, train other volunteers or work on projects, like community gardens.
Master Gardener Volunteer Program
Master Food Preserver Volunteer Program
Master Health Volunteer Program
"I love working as a volunteer with SDSU Extension as a South Dakota Master Gardener. My mind is stimulated with the up-to-date horticulture information provided which fuels my teaching portfolio which in turn connects me to my community."
Meet Our Volunteers
Volunteers are an integral part of meeting our mission, and we deeply value the passion and energy that each of our volunteers brings to SDSU Extension. Here we highlight their stories and their dedication to service.
4-H Volunteers
Volunteers represent a key component to a successful 4-H Youth Development program in South Dakota. This group of dedicated individuals works with 4-H professionals across the state to carry out projects, programs, club, judging and leadership opportunities for young people.
