GAINESVILLE — In every Florida county, community members turn to their local UF/IFAS Extension office for year-round assistance in gardening, youth programming, home management and other needs.

But behind many of these program areas are robust networks of volunteers who offer their time and expertise as Master Gardeners, 4-H leaders and Master Money Mentors. Volunteers play an essential role in fulfilling UF/IFAS Extension’s commitment to the community. In return, UF/IFAS Extension recognizes volunteers’ service during Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 16-22.

“The hands-on expertise that is so critical to Extension work would be limited without the partnership of local volunteers,” said Andra Johnson, dean of UF/IFAS Extension and the director of the Florida Cooperative Extension Service. “I also applaud the commitment they make to gaining knowledge and sharing it. These are lifelong learners, and they invest that expertise right back into their community.”

Those interested in becoming a volunteer may contact their local UF/IFAS Extension office; find yours at sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office.