History:
The Kentucky Master Volunteer
in Clothing Program is an outgrowth of volunteer interest and concern
for a longtime Extension program (sewing) which had received little
attention during the late 1980's. The program's beginning can be
traced to the enthusiasm and zeal of three volunteer leaders, Dorothy
Schwantes, Scott County; Sue Bradford, Harrison County; and, Marlene
McComas, Grant County. These women represented Kentucky and participated
in the 1989 National 4-H Clothing & Textile Leadership Forum
sponsored by the National 4-H Council and the Craft Yarn Council
of America. Upon their return, a core committee was formed consisting
of the three volunteers plus two Extension professionals, Linda Heaton,
Textiles & Clothing Specialists and Karen Hicks, 4-H/Youth Development
Specialist. The committee prepared and applied for a seed grant from
the Craft Yarn Council to begin their work to stimulate and infuse
the Kentucky clothing. What transpired was a carefully structured
interdisciplinary statewide venture between Home Economics and 4-H/Youth
that focused on clothing construction. The first statewide volunteer
training was conducted in November 1990.
The program was founded
on, and continues to function around four major thrusts.
Program Goals:
- To reach, teach and involve
community clientele to affect behavior change and improve family
living.
- To provide in-depth ongoing
educational opportunities for volunteers enrolled in the program.
- To train volunteers
who can help local Cooperative Extension professionals with planning,implementing
and evaluating educational programs in clothing.
- To expand current educational
offerings and increase outreach opportunities to clientele.
