P165 Examining the Role of Champion Volunteers: Former Participants and Agency Partners in Maryland EFNEP

Abstract

Objective To examine the role of “Champion Volunteers” in Maryland EFNEP. Use of Theory or Research Theory of Planned Behavior was utilized to better understand behavioral attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and intention related to volunteering. Target Audience Select EFNEP “Champion Volunteers”: former EFNEP participants and partner agency staff from multiple Maryland Counties. Program Description Volunteers play a critical role in EFNEP. Former participants and partner agency staff reach out to potential program participants, provide opportunities and space for classes, assist with class management, and facilitate program participation by offering transportation, material resources etc. to support EFNEP. Volunteers who serve EFNEP above and beyond are recognized as “EFNEP Champions” based on the criterion developed by Maryland EFNEP. Evaluation Methods In-depth interviews were conducted on a convenience sample of “Champion” agency partners and former EFNEP participants (n\u202f=\u202f20) to examine: their motivation for volunteering, perceived benefits from volunteering and their impact on EFNEP. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and transcripts were imported into NVivo (version 12), for coding. Data were analyzed and themes were generated. Results Interviewees expressed unanimous appreciation for EFNEP workshops. Key motivations for volunteering included engagement, attainment of knowledge, the learning experience, access to social support through interaction and relationships building with participants in the program: and a desire to serve the community. The impacts of the program on respondents and their families included maintenance of positive behaviors related to physical activity, healthier eating, budget planning and better management of food resources. Key findings on how former participants and agency staff supported EFNEP include recruitment of families, knowledge sharing with friends and family, advocacy, and assisting EFNEP educators in classes and promotional events. Conclusions This study provides an understanding of which motivators encourage volunteers to contribute to the community. It can inform which factors are most important when setting up new partnerships, recruiting, and engaging volunteers in the program and thereby help EFNEP and other nutrition education programs in developing a robust volunteer effort. Funding None.