Motivations of Volunteer Leaders in an Extension Exercise Program

Authors

Lisa T. Washburn, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Arkansas Division of AgricultureFollow
Carol E. Cornell, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
LaVona Traywick, Cooperative Extension Service, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
Holly C. Felix, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow
Martha Phillips, University of Arkansas for Medical SciencesFollow

Volume

53

Issue

6

DOI

10.34068/joe.53.06.16

Abstract

This article describes findings from a qualitative study of volunteer leaders in the StrongWomen strength training program in Arkansas. The study explored reasons volunteers initially agreed to serve, perceptions of volunteer role, and motivations for continuing to lead strength training groups long-term. Findings suggest a combination of factors supporting volunteer engagement: personal benefit of program, desire to continue program combined with a personal invitation to volunteer extended by the agent, desire to support a co-leader, and exercise and social support needs met through volunteer service. Motivations of Extension health program volunteers are important to address to maximize program impact.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Washburn, L. T., Cornell, C. E., Traywick, L., Felix, H. C., & Phillips, M. (2015). Motivations of Volunteer Leaders in an Extension Exercise Program. The Journal of Extension, 53(6), Article 16. https://doi.org/10.34068/joe.53.06.16