Lexington, November 26, 2025
The Kentucky Volunteer Forum is set to take place in Lexington, bringing together 4-H and Extension volunteers for workshops, networking, and recognition events. This biennial event, themed ‘Be the Difference: Motivate. Educate. Celebrate.’, emphasizes community involvement and highlights the contributions of volunteers. Attendees can expect over 225 workshops, a trade show, and several events honoring exceptional volunteers and youth. Registration is open with various options available, aiming to inspire local leaders and strengthen community ties.
Celebrate Community Spirit at the 2026 Kentucky Volunteer Forum
Join Us in Honoring 4-H and Extension Volunteers in Lexington
LEXINGTON, Ky. – The upcoming 2026 Kentucky Volunteer Forum promises to be an inspiring showcase of community spirit and individual initiative, set to take place from February 26–28, 2026, at the Central Bank Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Lexington. Under the theme “Be the Difference: Motivate. Educate. Celebrate.,” this event will bring together 4-H and Extension volunteers, professionals, and community partners from across Kentucky and beyond. The forum highlights the importance of grassroots involvement in enhancing the lives of Kentucky youth.
As our local leaders strive to make Lexington a vibrant place for connection and education, this biennial event reflects their commitment to fostering volunteerism—a key component of community resilience. With minimal bureaucracy facilitating the organization of this event, it stands as an excellent example of how personal initiative can lead to remarkable achievements within our neighborhoods.
Event Highlights
Attendees can look forward to a robust schedule featuring:
- Workshops and Seminars: Over 225 workshops covering 25 content tracks aimed at professional development, offering an impressive array of opportunities to learn and grow.
- Trade Show: A dynamic trade show with 60 vendors showcasing a variety of goods and services relevant to volunteers and educators.
- Recognition Events: Two special events honoring the remarkable contributions of volunteers and youth to the 4-H program, emphasizing the positive impact they make on their communities.
Accreditation and Awards
Volunteers attending the forum will have valuable opportunities to complete accreditation requirements in nine content areas, including:
- Agriculture and Animal Sciences
- Camping
- Cloverbuds
- Communications and Expressive Arts
- Family and Consumer Sciences
- Health and Well-being
- Leadership
- Natural Resources and Science
- Engineering and Technology
Accredited volunteers will walk away with useful lesson plans and educational materials to support club leadership and activities for the next two years. Furthermore, at the Hall of Fame banquet, 76 award recipients will be celebrated for their contributions to the Kentucky 4-H Program, alongside 176 youth who have achieved a decade of 4-H membership during the Saturday Recognition Brunch.
Registration Information
Registration for the forum is currently open. Several options are available:
- Full-Time Registration: $250
- Thursday Only Registration: $75
- Friday Only Registration: $200
- Saturday Only Registration: $150
It is important to note that registration submitted after the December 12, 2025, deadline will incur an additional $50 late fee. The final registration deadline is January 16, 2026. Volunteers interested in attending should reach out to their local 4-H agent for assistance. For additional details, interested parties can visit the official Kentucky Volunteer Forum website or contact their local county extension office.
Background
The Kentucky Volunteer Forum serves as a developmental and educational conference designed specifically for 4-H and Extension volunteers across various program sectors. Providing an atmosphere rich with workshops and professional development, the forum reinforces the critical role volunteers play in shaping the future of our youth and communities in Kentucky.
Conclusion
The 2026 Kentucky Volunteer Forum exemplifies the power of collective action and community engagement in Lexington. With robust programming, targeted accreditation, and opportunities for meaningful recognition, this event invites all to appreciate and strengthen the fiber of local volunteerism. We encourage Lexington residents to support and participate in this gathering, as we work together to foster a brighter future for our youth and our community.
FAQ
- What is the 2026 Kentucky Volunteer Forum?
- The 2026 Kentucky Volunteer Forum is a biennial event scheduled for February 26–28, 2026, in Lexington, Kentucky. It aims to inspire, equip, and honor 4-H and Extension volunteers, professionals, and community partners from across Kentucky and beyond.
- What are the key features of the forum?
- The forum will feature over 225 workshops spanning 25 content tracks, including professional development sessions, seminars on wheels, networking opportunities, and a trade show with 60 vendors. Two recognition events will highlight the contributions of volunteers and youth, celebrating their impact on the 4-H program.
- How can volunteers register for the forum?
- Registration is open with options for full-time or single-day attendance. Volunteers should contact their 4-H agent to register. For more information, visit the official Kentucky Volunteer Forum website or contact your local county extension office.
- What is the accreditation process for volunteers?
- Volunteers attending the forum can complete accreditation requirements in nine content areas, including Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Camping, Cloverbuds, Communications and Expressive Arts, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Well-being, Leadership, Natural Resources and Science, and Engineering and Technology. Accredited volunteers will receive lesson plans and educational materials to support club leadership and educational activities for the next two years.
- What awards will be presented at the forum?
- Seventy-six award recipients, comprised of volunteers and community partners, will be recognized and inducted at the Hall of Fame banquet ceremony for their contributions to the Kentucky 4-H Program and their impact on youth. Additionally, 176 youth who have completed 10 years of 4-H membership will be recognized at the Saturday Recognition Brunch.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | February 26–28, 2026 |
| Location | Central Bank Convention Center and Hyatt Regency, Lexington, Kentucky |
| Themes | “Be the Difference: Motivate. Educate. Celebrate.” |
| Workshops | Over 225 workshops spanning 25 content tracks |
| Trade Show | Featuring 60 vendors |
| Recognition Events | Two events highlighting contributions of volunteers and youth |
| Accreditation Areas | Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Camping, Cloverbuds, Communications and Expressive Arts, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Well-being, Leadership, Natural Resources and Science, Engineering and Technology |
| Registration Options | Full-Time Registration: $250; Thursday Only: $75; Friday Only: $200; Saturday Only: $150 |
| Registration Deadline | January 16, 2026 (Late fee applies after December 12, 2025) |
| Awards | 76 award recipients recognized at the Hall of Fame banquet; 176 youth recognized at the Saturday Recognition Brunch |
Now Happening on X
- @heraldleader (November 26, 2025, 4:00 AM): Lexington is hosting a free 250Lex event focused on the connections between arts and health, inviting community members to explore how creative expression supports well-being. View on X
- @CokeCCBCC (November 24, 2025, 5:30 PM): Celebrating sustainability and Lexington’s 250th anniversary, Bluegrass Greensource and local artists transformed rain barrels into stunning art pieces, with many joining the LexArts Hop to admire the creative works. View on X
- @heraldleader (November 25, 2025, 6:50 PM): Lexington is buzzing with excitement for the Andrea Bocelli concert, marked by a special Bocelli in the Bluegrass week featuring community events and celebrations of music and culture. View on X
- @heraldleader (November 25, 2025, 12:40 PM): The city is coming together to celebrate the Andrea Bocelli concert through Bocelli in the Bluegrass week, highlighting local arts and gatherings that bring people closer. View on X
- @FOX56News (November 20, 2025, 12:39 AM): Spirit of the Bluegrass shines through one of Lexington’s top fall attractions, a scenic short road with a rich reputation that draws locals and visitors for its community charm. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Kentucky’s Weekend of Service Enhances Equine Industry
Lexington Launches Legendary Festival of Lights
Governor Beshear’s Team Kentucky Update on Community Growth
Holler Choir Brightens Lexington with Musical Collaboration
Celebrate Volunteerism at the Kentucky Volunteer Forum
Empowering Volunteers at the Kentucky Volunteer Forum
Brighton Residents Unite for Environmental Clean-Up and Community Initiatives
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
