University of Maine Cooperative Extension, in partnership with Volunteer Maine, has launched online training for individuals getting started in a volunteer management role. Three self-paced courses make up the Introductory Volunteer Management micro-credential.

Level one, which takes about four hours to complete, provides an overview of what a volunteer manager does and explores aspects of volunteerism in Maine. It also introduces the seven competencies of volunteer management. Level two dives deeper into each of the seven competencies and typically takes approximately 10-12 hours. Level three is an opportunity to demonstrate the learner’s competencies through a self-designed volunteer management project.

Learners earn micro-badges for each level and a micro-credential once all three levels are completed. The micro-credential showcases competency in volunteer management, an essential skill in Maine’s nonprofit, education and public sectors.

The micro-credential course is open to any learner, whether a working professional, a volunteer leader managing other volunteers, a student looking to complement their academic program, or other interested community members. Improving volunteer engagement is a first step in getting more Mainers engaged with civic organizations and strengthening ties between neighbors.

To register visit discover.maine.edu. There is a sliding scale fee of $15-$50 for each badge level; scholarships are available.

For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Jen Lobley at 255-3455 or [email protected].

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