Cumberland County Extension Association Member Job Description

Purpose:

To promote the University of Maine Cooperative Extension’s educational programs, oversee local county funding according to the County Extension Act, and bring back ideas from the community.

Mission:

To help Maine people improve their lives through an educational process that uses research-based knowledge focused on issues and needs.

Benefits of Being a Member:

  • Opportunity to participate at the local, state and national level as a volunteer of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension
  • Increased awareness of the broad range of educational programs, literature and courses available to the public through University of Maine Cooperative Extension
  • Collaborate with people of shared interest
  • Network with committee members and the community
  • Build upon and learn new leadership skills
  • An opportunity to give back to your community

Time Required:

  • Approximately 10 meetings a year held monthly generally from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Meetings are generally held the third Wednesday of the month.
  • New members are elected each year in September for a 2 year term; terms can be renewed 3 times.
  • Standing and ad-hoc committees meet on an as-needed basis to assess items such as educational programs, the budget, nomination of new members, volunteer recognition, and to plan the annual meeting.

Responsibilities Include:

Promote the educational programs of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension by:

  • Overseeing the operations and preparation of the Cumberland County Extension office budget.
  • Educating citizens, county commissioners, legislators and other community leaders regarding educational program impacts.
  • Assisting in publicizing the University of Maine Cooperative Extension educational programs to reach diverse audiences by delivering and posting program announcements and calendars in town offices, post offices and other public places within the volunteer’s represented area.
  • Becoming familiar with the staff and programs of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Cumberland County office.
  • Members are encouraged to attend at least one University of Maine Cooperative Extension educational program per year offered by 4-H, Master Food Preservers or Master Gardeners.
  • Attending scheduled monthly meetings; actively participating on one standing committee.
  • Helping to prioritize staffing needs by making recommendations in selecting and hiring staff.

Qualifications and Skills Needed:

  • Be able to work as a team member with the full committee and subcommittees.
  • Demonstrate interest in the University of Maine Cooperative Extension educational programs.
  • Possess general knowledge of peoples’ educational needs and issues of importance in your geographic area.

 Resources Available and Training Provided:

  • Orientation
  • Association manual & by-laws
  • Regular updates about new and continuing programs
  • Networking with experienced committee members