Building Partnerships

At the heart of successful extension work lies a fundamental principle: working with and for the community. As an Extension Agent, your role extends far beyond the boundaries of academia; it’s about forging meaningful connections, fostering understanding, and collaborating with the very communities you serve. This chapter delves into the profound significance of community engagement in extension, emphasizing how this symbiotic relationship not only drives impactful outcomes but also nurtures a sense of shared ownership, empowerment, and sustainability. Join us in exploring how the importance of working hand in hand with the community is more than a strategy – it’s a philosophy that drives lasting change, cultivates trust, and empowers individuals and groups to thrive in an interconnected world.

Readings:

• Community Engagement and Programming Models for the 21st Century Extension Professional
  Authors: Laura Downey
  Publication: The Journal of Extension
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• Public Value and Partnerships: Critical Components of Extension’s Future
  Author: Amy Harder
  Publication: The Journal of Extension
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