Master Food Volunteers
2027 Training
Thank you for your interest in becoming an Extension Master Food Volunteer! This training program prepares volunteers to share research-based nutrition, food safety, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program information with community members throughout Douglas County.
Training includes hands-on learning, demonstrations, guest speakers, discussions, and opportunities to connect with fellow volunteers.
Program Requirements
$50 Training Fee: The training fee helps cover supplies, and ingredients.
20 hours of volunteer service within one year of graduation.
Training Schedule
Meet & Greet at Extension Master Food Volunteer Business Meeting
Date: January 21, 2027
Participants will:
- Meet current Extension Master Food Volunteers
- Get to know fellow trainees
- Learn more about the program
Session 1: Cooking 101 & Knife Skills
Date: February 2, 2027
Participants will learn to:
- Demonstrate proper knife safety and basic cutting techniques.
- Apply safe food handling practices.
- Develop foundational cooking skills and confidence in the kitchen.
Session 2: Baking
Date: February 9, 2027
Participants will learn to:
- Demonstrate accurate measuring techniques for baking.
- Understand the role of yeast and basic yeast-bread preparation.
- Explore quick-bread preparation techniques and recipes.
Session 3: Watch Party
Date: February 16, 2027
An opportunity for trainees and volunteers to gather, socialize, and build connections within the Extension Master Food Volunteer program.
Session 4: Preparing Proteins
Date: February 23, 2027
Participants will learn to:
- Apply safe food handling, preparation, and cooking practices for protein foods.
- Explore a variety of cooking techniques for preparing proteins.
- Identify and prepare protein options that support balanced, nutritious meals.
- Learn strategies for stretching a food budget.
Session 5: Food Preservation
Date: March 2, 2027
Participants will learn to:
- Understand the principles of safe food preservation.
- Learn pressure canning and boiling water bath canning techniques.
- Identify food safety practices essential to home food preservation.
Session 6: Food Insecurity
Date: March 9, 2027
Participants will learn to:
- Understand Extension's role in addressing food insecurity in Douglas County.
- Learn about the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program application process and available resources.
- Participate in a poverty simulation exploring challenges faced by individuals and families experiencing financial hardship.
Session 7: Graduation Potluck Celebration
Date: March 11, 2027
Celebrate the completion of training, strengthen relationships among volunteers, and welcome trainees into the Extension Master Food Volunteer program.