Individuals in the University of Wisconsin Division of Extension Master Gardener Program may apply for the Honored participation level. The purpose of this level is to 1) recognize volunteers for their contributions to the program, 2) increase flexibility in annual reporting requirements, and 3) create uniform recognition across the state.

To qualify for this level an individual must:

• Complete 10 years OR 1000 hours of service to the Extension Master Gardener Program in Wisconsin as recorded in the online reporting system.
• List significant accomplishments as a participant in the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program at the local, regional, or statewide. This should include leadership, contributions to volunteer activities, or support to other volunteers and Extension staff.
• Complete the application, including the signature from the local Extension staff (if applicable).
• Be reviewed and approved by Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program staff.
• Applications will be accepted only from November 1 through December 31, with decisions awarded before March 31. Applications received outside of this deadline may be misplaced.

Individuals will be recognized with:

• Reporting exemption for volunteer and continuing education activities. You may report less than the required hours for perpetuity. This includes reporting ZERO hours.
  • Note: individuals must still complete ALL other requirements of the program, including accepting and fulfilling the terms and conditions for the program.

Comments

Over the decades, many local associations created their own criteria for an “emeritus” status to acknowledge the contributions of  local volunteers. The emeritus criteria was not consistent across counties.  And, this never was recognized statewide, leading to increased confusion and frustration regarding participation requirements in the program.

In 2020, the Master Gardener Program tasked a group of volunteers to draft a proposed statewide solution. The group reviewed similar recognition strategies in other states. Ours incorporates elements of those models while meeting the requirements of our state’s program. It was named Honored to reduce confusion with campus based emeritus status. Applicants must have previously reported a total of 10 years of service OR a minimum of 1000 hours of service in Wisconsin to be eligible.

In addition, applicants must briefly list their accomplishments as a participant in the Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener Program. Accomplishments may include your leadership activities, your contributions to volunteer activities, and/or your support to other volunteers and Extension staff. This can include local, regional, or statewide efforts. All efforts must have occurred in Wisconsin. Your write up should be limited to 500 characters or less, which is approximately the number of characters in this paragraph.

All individuals with previously designated emeritus status at the local level must still complete the application process and meet program requirements. Individuals who qualify for Honored may continue to report hours only if they would like.