The following Family & Consumer Science article printed in the March 31, 2016 edition of the Oldham Era.

Become an Extension Master Clothing Volunteer

If you’re interested in making sewing more than just a hobby, Cooperative Extension’s Master Clothing Volunteer program might be right for you. Recruitment for the Master Clothing Volunteer Class of 2016 is ongoing through the end of June.

A master volunteer is an individual who goes above and beyond the traditional volunteer role. Master Clothing Volunteers have basic knowledge of sewing and garment construction skills. They are interested in receiving in-depth training in the subject and are dedicated to helping others learn their art.

The Kentucky Master Volunteer in Clothing Construction Program has been certifying individuals since 1990. A new class of volunteers is selected every two years. The class of 2016 will be the 13th class to begin the certification process.

Participation in the Master Clothing Volunteer program is highly selective. Only two individuals are selected from each of the state’s 14 extension areas. Individuals must first apply to the program at their county’s extension office, where they are already an approved volunteer. From there, a county committee will screen the applicants. Individuals will be notified by mail about the status of their application. Those selected will advance to an area screening committee. The committee will make their selections based on an individual’s sewing knowledge and people skills drawn from the application and an interview.

Those selected to participate in the program will attend a statewide training, Oct. 18-21 at the Lake Cumberland 4-H Educational Center in Jabez and begin the certification process. During this process, they will receive training on subject matter, record keeping, teaching, and people skills. They will also make a written commitment to give back a specific amount of time to Cooperative Extension and the community by teaching basic sewing skills to groups of individuals. After completing the volunteer requirements, the individual will become a Certified Master Clothing Volunteer recognized by the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service as a trained professional aide.

Applications are available at county extension offices. For more information on becoming a Kentucky Master Clothing Volunteer, contact the Oldham County Cooperative Extension Service.

Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of race, color, sex, religion, disability or national origin.

Source: Marjorie Baker, extension associate for clothing and textiles