By Scout Nelson
SDSU Extension recognizes its volunteers during National Volunteer Week from April 19 to 25, 2026. The organization highlights the important that role volunteers play in improving communities across South Dakota through education, agriculture, and health programs.
Each year, thousands of volunteers give their time to support programs such as 4-H, livestock education, mental health awareness, Master Food Preservers, and Master Gardeners. Their efforts help create stronger and healthier communities.
The Master Gardener program is one of the key initiatives. It includes more than 450 volunteers and 14 clubs across the state. In 2025, these volunteers organized 131 educational events and reached 12,000 people. They also donated over 9,400 pounds of fresh produce to organizations like Feeding South Dakota.
“SDSU Extension offers many volunteer opportunities, and volunteers are involved in every aspect of carrying out the Extension mission,” said Prairey Walkling, SDSU Extension Master Gardener Field Specialist. “We are South Dakota’s source of unbiased and relevant new knowledge generated from research, and we rely on volunteers to help provide access to educational opportunities and programs in all South Dakota counties.”
Volunteers also support youth programs. In Watertown, Master Gardeners work with the Boys and Girls Club to teach children about gardening. Students learn about planting, composting, teamwork, and healthy eating habits.
“There’s a lot more than just harvesting the produce,” Likness said. “The kids learn teamwork, what plants are compatible in boxes. They’re learning a lot about produce and things that grow well together. They’re learning to get along.”
In Rapid City, volunteers help at the Black Hills Farmers Market by answering gardening questions and organizing fun activities like zucchini races.
“I do it because I believe in local foods, and I love the atmosphere of the farmer’s market,” Deibert said. “It just is a lot of fun answering questions. Sometimes we don’t have the answer right away, but we help people find them.”
These volunteer efforts continue to support education, food access, and community growth across the state.
For more information on volunteering for any of these programs, visit the SDSU Extension website.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Education, Rural Lifestyle