Master Sewing Volunteer Program
Becoming a Master Sewing Volunteer!
What to Expect as a Master Sewing Volunteer
Why Become a Master Sewing Volunteer?
The Master Sewing Volunteer will work under the direction of a county Extension educator to organize and teach classes designed to develop basic sewing skills and other life skills. Volunteers may work individually or as a team.
Specific duties may include
- Maintain professional relationships and communication with county Extension staff.
- Assist in promoting the program and recruiting participants.
- Solicit donations for supplies and materials.
- Prepare instructional materials and samples.
- Assist in the maintenance of program records.
How to Apply
To apply to be a Master Sewing Volunteer please contact your county Family and Consumer Sciences Extension educator.
- Applicants must already be a Master FCS Volunteer or will soon achieve this status.
- Applicants should demonstrate knowledge and ability to complete basic clothing construction techniques and be able to read, interpret and explain pattern instructions.
- Complete a background check and submit two references through your county Extension office.
Master FCS Online Training
If accepted into the Master FCS volunteer program, you will complete 3 online learning modules which will take approximately 3 hours to complete. Modules are based on original work by Montana State University in 2013-2014.
Volunteer CommitmentApplicants selected for the Master Sewing Volunteer program are expected to fulfill the following responsibilities:
- Complete certification process which includes:
- Participate in all education sessions, receiving 14 hours of subject matter and skills education that meet quality standards
- Annually complete any University-required training including, but not limited to, OK Working with Minors and Respecting Civil Rights.
- Reinvest a minimum of 20 hours of program instruction per year, including preparation time, reaching a minimum of 10 individuals through program efforts
- Have access to a sewing machine in good working order, sewing notions and supplies
- Complete sewing samples and teaching resources, as needed
- Apply knowledge and skills to recognize and solve problems, i.e. relating to sewing machines and related equipment, simple pattern alterations and fit, and simple garment alterations and fit, sewing errors
- Refrain from endorsing any commercial products/brands or implying that OSU Extension endorses any specific brands, stores, or products to the exclusion of others
- Conduct educational programs in a nondiscriminatory manner
- Assist with other clothing related activities as requested by county staff. i.e. county fair clothing exhibit superintendent, 4-H Design and Construction events
- Provide own transportation
Master Sewing Volunteer Status
Master Sewing Volunteer
- Be a Master FCS Volunteer
- Accepted into the Master Sewing Volunteer Program
- Complete 14 hours of initial basic Master Sewing Volunteer training, sewing samples and teaching resources, including required OSU trainings
Certified Master Sewing Volunteer
- Must reinvest a minimum of 20 hours of program instruction reaching a minimum of 10 individuals within 12 months following training.
- Must complete OSU’s annual required trainings
Annual Recertification
After the first year, continue active program participation
- Must complete 10 hours of continuing education credits and
- Must reinvest 20 hours of program instruction yearly.
- Must complete OSU’s annual required trainings.
Inactive Status
If at any time a volunteer is unable to complete program requirements due to personal situations, they can go inactive by submitting a letter to the County Extension Educator. When ready to return to the program, contact the County Extension Educator to determine plan of action. A break in service of over one year may require retraining.