Never underestimate the power of seeing a need and stepping up to help. Avice Hoff is a lifelong engaged citizen who says volunteering is in her blood. She grew up in Saint Ignatius, Montana, where her grandparents homesteaded in 1910. During college at Montana State University, she met Ivan Hoff, and they married. The marriage brought her to Dagmar in northeastern Montana.

Throughout life in western to eastern Montana, she has volunteered and supported her communities. “It’s just something that my family has always done. It was instilled from the inspirations of my parents and grandparents and the activities that they lived and believed,” Hoff reflected.

For 45 years Hoff served as a 4-H volunteer leader and positively impacted many youth. Volunteer leaders work with 4-H members enrolled in a specific project area, assisting them to plan and carry out experiences to reach their learning goals. Leaders support the positive growth and development of each youth involved.

A man and a woman pose for a photo in front of a christmas tree. They are older in age and the man has his arm around the woman.

Photo: Avice Hoff

Hoff’s time as a volunteer leader influenced her views on the importance of being a learner throughout life. “My joy has been in working with youth of all ages to help each one learn to be professional in their actions, graciousness, thoughts, and performance. To me, the 4-H motto ‘Make the best better’ should be everyone’s mantra. Always be a life-long learner. No one should tune out from education; observe, listen, read, expand one’s vision while opening one’s mind.”

Being a lifelong learner means embracing curiosity and the desire to grow, regardless of age or stage in life. It involves seeking new experiences and knowledge through learning from many different sources. Hoff’s commitment to continuous learning means her world is constantly expanding. It also means she is curious to understand the diverse needs in her community.

Hoff is a long-time member of the Montana Extension Advisory Council (MEAC), which assists MSU Extension in developing sound, long-range outreach and educational programs based on local priorities. Committee members represent different regions and bring knowledge of local needs.

Hoff serves the role of community spokesperson thoughtfully, “Representing approximately 12 counties in northeastern Montana, I have the ability to be a voice on the council for those people. Their endeavors, their lifestyle, their needs, and it is my responsibility to interact with them and to ask questions of various people on commissions and in all realms of life.”

Avice stands with a group of young FFA members in their blue courduroy jackets.

Photo: Avice Hoff

During her time with MEAC, Hoff has continued discovering new perspectives and learning about unexplored issues. Everything she does builds on previous knowledge and experience. This perspective benefits the council.

“Serving on the Montana Extension Advisory Council after 45 years as a (Montana 4-H) volunteer leader has furthered my knowledge of Extension’s outreach in a plethora of avenues – from agriculture to leadership development, community involvement, legislative awareness, and to the needs for better living for all people, regardless of age, ethnicity, and economic background,” Hoff said.

Volunteering leads to more resilient and thriving communities by fostering connections and addressing local needs. Volunteers like Hoff contribute time, skills, and resources. These contributions help organizations like MSU Extension fulfill their missions and empower and help individuals grow. The collective impact of dedicated volunteers can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to act and instilling a culture of care and responsibility. Hoff said, “It is all about helping, linking arms with other people to make everybody stronger and better, and doing it with graciousness.” A life of service, learning, and love for Montana communities makes Hoff a vital and valued advisor with MEAC and the state.

 

Erika Malo is the MSU Extension External Relations Coordinator.