Kentucky Volunteer Forum
About
The Kentucky Volunteer Forum is a developmental and educational conference geared towards 4-H and Extension volunteers from all program areas. The forum offers 220 workshops in 25 content tracks, professional development sessions, seminars on wheels, networking opportunities, a trade show, and three recognition events. Volunteers work to complete requirements necessary for accreditation in Agriculture, Camping, Cloverbuds, Communications & Expressive Arts, Family & Consumer Sciences, Health, Leadership, Natural Resources, and Science, Engineering, & Technology. Additionally, volunteers, community partners, and 10-year 4-H members are recognized for their contributions to the Kentucky 4-H Program, and their impact on the lives of Kentucky youth.
Mission Statement
- To motivate, educate, and celebrate 4-H and Extension volunteers and professionals through innovative programming.
Vision Statement
- The 2026 Kentucky Volunteer Forum will be the nation’s premier educational, networking and recognition opportunity for a diverse group of 4-H and Extension volunteers. Through education and skill development, volunteers and Extension professionals will be energized and inspired to engage and positively develop youth and adults in their communities throughout the commonwealth and nationwide.
Date
February 26-28, 2026
Location
Central Bank Convention Center
Hyatt Regency Lexington
401 High St.
Lexington, KY 40507
Kentucky Volunteer Forum Information
Registration Types
- Full Time Registration - $250
- Thursday Only Registration - $75
- Friday Only Registration - $200
- Saturday Only Registration - $150
Registration submitted after the December 12th, 2025 deadline will incur and additional $50 late fee for any of the above registration types you select. Final deadline for registration is January 16th, 2026.
4-H volunteers, please contact your 4-H agent to register. Please email or deliver your form to your county extension office.
Registration Form - Kentucky Volunteers
If you are donor/sponsor who is not a 4-H volunteer or an out of state delegate, register online using the link below. University of Kentucky staff, excluding 4-H agents, please register using the link below unless you have access to 4-H Online.
Registration for Out of State Participants and Donors
The Kentucky Volunteer Forum is a unique opportunity for Cooperative Extension professionals, higher education professionals, and extension volunteers to share their expertise and learn from others.
Submit your workshop proposals by August 22, 2025, to be part of this enriching experience. Workshops are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, with each session lasting 45 minutes. You can also opt for two consecutive sessions. Additionally, special sessions of 2-4 hours will be available on Thursday.
Don't miss out on this chance to contribute to the growth and development of our community!
Workshop Descriptions and Schedule
Thursday Seminars on Wheels and Intensive Workshops Options
Kentucky Volunteer Forum Hall of Fame Winners
Hall of Fame Awards Packet & Recognition Categories
10 Year Member Recognition The Ten-Year 4-H Member award celebrates individuals who have committed to 4-H for ten program years. This prestigious recognition highlights their dedication, involvement, and meaningful contributions to Kentucky 4-H. Youth are honored during an awards banquet held at every Kentucky Volunteer Forum, where their enduring impact on the community is commemorated with heartfelt gratitude.
Hyatt Regency Reservation Link:
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/group-booking/LEXRL/G-4HFR
Hilton Reservation Link:
https://www.hilton.com/en/attend-my-event/kentucky4hvolunteerforumlexington/
The Campbell House Lexington:
The Campbell House Lexington, Curio Collection by Hilton
County Extension Office Contacts
4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT A Kentucky 4-H volunteer is anyone who contributes time, energy, or talent to the Kentucky 4-H Youth Development Program and is not paid by University of Kentucky funds. Many volunteer roles involve working directly with others; others do not. There are seven specific types of 4-H volunteer roles in Kentucky. They include: Community Club Leader, Project Club Leader, Special Emphasis Volunteer, School Enrichment Volunteer, 4-H Committee Member, 4-H Council Member, Youth Volunteer,
Find information to connect you to your County Extension Office