UMaine Extension offers many volunteer opportunities across Maine. Whether you’re the type of person who enjoys a lot of social interaction or is motivated by the idea of making a difference in your community, volunteering has social, career and personal benefits.

Nearly 1,600 volunteers devoted more than 50,000 hours to their communities last year through the University of Maine Cooperative Extension! 

Why do people volunteer? Volunteers meet vital community needs, and in the process often transform their own lives. Volunteering can help provide a sense of purpose, counteract social isolation, reduce stress, and learn or practice transferable skills.

How do I get involved? To learn more about our volunteer opportunities and see how you can become actively involved, explore this page to learn more or reach out to your local county Extension office.

Jessica Woodcock, UMaine Extension volunteer
Empowering Maine YouthJessica Woodcock’s remarkable journey began seven years ago when she reached out seeking volunteer opportunities for her daughters. This led her on to an extraordinary path of personal growth and community impact as a University of Maine Cooperative Extension 4-H volunteer.

Ways to Get Involved

4-H boys and girls make heart-shaped soap during a STEM lesson
Maine 4-HUnlock the potential of Maine's youth with 4-H, Extension's dynamic positive youth development program. From leadership and healthy living to science, technology, and sustainability, 4-H offers hands-on learning opportunities for over 30,000 youth statewide.
3 committee members chatting at a table
County Extension AssociationsVolunteer for your local County Extension Association and help shape Extension programming in your community. You’ll have a chance to provide input on local educational needs, staffing, and budget appropriations for programs benefiting county residents.
Extension homemaker
Maine Extension HomemakersJoin Maine Extension Homemakers, a group dedicated to leadership development, community support, and promoting Extension programs statewide. With Homemakers in every county, we're making a difference close to home. Get involved today!
Master Food Preserver with canning jars of pickles
Master Food Preserver VolunteersDiscover your passion for food preservation through the Master Food Preserver program! After completing the training, volunteers share research-based information on food preservation to the community at farmer’s markets and fairs or through presentations and workshops.
Master Gardener Volunteers collect onions to distribute to hungry Mainers through the Maine Harvest for Hunger program
Master Gardener VolunteersBecome part of a community dedicated to horticultural education and outreach as a Master Gardener Volunteer. After completing a comprehensive training program, volunteers donate their time and knowledge to various community garden projects and activities.
Maine Harvest For HungerThe Maine Harvest for Hunger program is a grassroots initiative rallying gardeners, farmers, businesses, schools, civic groups, and individuals to grow, glean, and donate fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables to those in need across the state.