Leadership development can build the capacities of individuals, groups, and organizations to resolve community issues. Volunteer development can enhance the potential for community service. NIFA promotes leadership and volunteer development through its participation in interagency federal government teams; funding support for volunteer leader forums, national conferences, and community training opportunities; and research focusing on building volunteer competencies.
Five basic themes underpin extension's leadership and volunteer development work. They include:
- Public well-being
- Community ownership and civic action
- Valuing differences among people
- Personal development
- Institutional commitment.
- Developing the capacity of individuals, groups, organizations, and communities to take action for public well-being
- Mobilizing a strong and diverse leader and volunteer corps to take public action within communities and organizations
- Facilitating and sustaining diverse partnerships, collaborations, and networks for effective action within and across communities.