Master Gardener Volunteers (MGV) are a highly trained corps of volunteers whose mission is to assist extension agents in providing research-based horticultural information and education to residents. MGV’s accomplish this through participating in a variety of volunteer activities including gardening, youth and adult education, writing articles, testing soil pH, and providing diagnostic services at plant clinics. An objective of this program is that 75% of MGVs will report improved wellbeing as a result of participating in the MGV program. Annual surveys have been distributed from 2019 to 2023 to access the benefits derived from participating in the program both as a volunteer and specifically as a volunteer in a garden setting. Results from 5 years of annual surveys revealed that as a result of participating in the MGV program: 87% (n=168) feel physically healthier; 77% (n=170) experienced reduced levels of stress; 88% (n=171) experienced improved mental health; 78% (n=169) increased social connectedness; 88% (n=171) increased overall life satisfaction; and 91% (n=170) feel they make a difference in their community. When these MGVs were surveyed about their experience specifically volunteering in a garden setting, 90% (n=132) reported improved mental health; 86% (n=136) increased social connectedness; 81% (n=131) increased energy and vitality; 91% (n=132) increased sense of wellbeing; 84% (n=132) improved outlook on life; 96% (n=131) increased physical activity; and 90% (n=131) improved physical health. Volunteers experience improved health and wellbeing from participating in the MGV program and from gardening opportunities the affiliation provides.
