JoCo Unite in Action: Building Staff and Volunteer Capacity to Serve Community Needs
At the heart of JoCo Unite is a commitment to strengthening the people who make community impact possible which is our staff and volunteers. By investing in their development, support, and connection to resources, Johnson County Extension ensures that trusted, research-based education reaches residents in meaningful and effective ways. This is why the second goal of the plan focuses on the twenty full- and part-time staff members and more than one thousand volunteers who work in tandem to ensure the Johnson County K-State Extension office remains a strong steward of the community.
This work is grounded in continuous learning. JoCo Unite prioritizes ongoing professional development and training opportunities that equip staff and volunteers with the latest research, tools, and strategies. Whether through workshops, peer learning, or collaboration with Kansas State University specialists, Extension teams stay informed and prepared to address emerging community needs with confidence.
Volunteers are a vital extension of this mission. Through intentional recruitment, thoughtful onboarding, and ongoing mentorship, JoCo Unite builds a strong volunteer network capable of delivering programs, supporting outreach, and engaging diverse audiences across Johnson County. These efforts not only expand Extension’s reach but also foster a sense of community ownership and leadership. In April we celebrate National Volunteer Week, however our office recognizes volunteer impact year-round!
Equally important is the emphasis on collaboration. By creating opportunities for cross-program connection, JoCo Unite encourages staff and volunteers to share ideas, align efforts, and develop innovative approaches to local challenges. This collaborative environment leads to more integrated programming and a stronger, more unified response to the priorities that matter most to residents.
Investing in leadership is key to long-term success. JoCo Unite supports both staff and volunteers in developing leadership skills that enhance program delivery, strengthen partnerships, and build confidence in serving their communities. From new volunteers to experienced agents, leadership growth remains a continuous and intentional focus.
When staff and volunteers are well-supported, communities benefit. JoCo Unite ensures that those delivering programs are equipped not only with knowledge, but also with the confidence and connections needed to make a meaningful difference. This investment in people leads to stronger programs, deeper community engagement, and more sustainable impact across Johnson County.
By building the capacity of staff and volunteers, JoCo Unite strengthens Extension’s ability to respond to community needs with relevance, expertise, and care while ensuring that every program delivered contributes to a healthier, more resilient Johnson County.
by Tara Markley, Johnson County Extension Director and Community Vitality Agent, April 2026