— Written By Der Holcomb

What is the Extension Master Food Volunteer Training Program?

The Extension Master Food Volunteer program is designed to engage residents in research-based food and nutrition programming in their community and train volunteers to future expand the reaches of NC Cooperative Extension Service. Volunteers who complete the training and pays their membership fee becomes a part of the State-wide Extension Master Food Volunteer Group.

Why become an EMFV?

Combine your love of cooking, nutrition, physical activity, and helping others by becoming a North Carolina Extension Master Food Volunteer. Interest in food, cooking, and local foods is at an all-time high. Under the guidance of the FCS agent, volunteer gains research-based information all the while learning from each other, serving the local community, and building networks.

What is expected?

Participants are expected to complete the EMFV application process including reference and background check. Applications are reviewed and interviews will be conducted and notified of acceptance. Those accepted must complete 30 hours of core training, 30 hours of shadowing the FCS agent, 20 hours of volunteer service per year, and 10 hours of continuing education per year. Cost of the training is $75 and includes membership to Extension Master Food Volunteers.

Opportunities to Serve:  (What can I do with this training?)

Volunteers help support Extension’s family and consumer science agents through education and outreach efforts. There is something for everyone!

• Health Fairs
• Food/Cooking demonstrations
• Farmers Market displays
• In-School and After-School programs
• 4H Youth programs
• Newspaper or newsletter articles on healthy eating, physical activities, and food preparation
• Assist with education at food distribution sites
• Senior Nutrition Program
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education
• Healthy ministries in your community
• Cooking classes and more!

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2018 Alexander Extension Master Food Volunteer Training Schedule

Informational Session: Thursday, May 31 at 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

Application deadline: June 8, 2018–Click on the link to download application: EMFV Volunteer Application . Application must be submitted to the Alexander County Extension Center
Interview Dates: June 11, June 12, June 13
(Candidates will be notified June 18 on acceptance and payment of training will be due at the time)

Location: NC Cooperative Extension Service-Alexander County Center
379 1^st Ave SW, Taylorsville, NC 28681
Time: 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

Training Dates and Topics

Date	Topic
Monday, June 25th	Orientation
Tuesday, July 10th	Program Management
Monday, July 16th	Food Safety & Preservation
Monday, July 23rd	Nutrient Basics
Monday, July 30th	Diversity, Inclusion, and Equality
Tuesday, August 7th	Cooking Techniques 1
Monday, August 20th	Cooking Techniques 2
Monday, August 27th	Food Systems
Thursday, September 6th	Cooking Demo 1
Monday, September 17th	Cooking Demo 2
Monday, September 24th	Make Up Date

Download the 2018 Extension Master Food Volunteer Brochure for additional information or call Der Holcomb at 828-632-3125 or email dxiong3@ncsu.edu.