Poverty simulations can be effective experiential learning tools for educating community members about the impact of poverty on families. The project described here includes survey results from three simulations with community leaders and teachers. This project illustrated how such workshops can help Extension professionals extend their reach and…

Several land-grant institutions have adopted a name to encompass the teaching, research, and Extension components of the university, creating a brand identity for those public services. But, in the mind of stakeholders, has the connection between the tripartite mission and the brand name been made? The study reported here sought to determine…

Addressing needs of the increasing Latino population in the United States necessitates adequate support and resources for Extension educators. Even if a program has identified the need for resources and programming, how does it determine the specifics of that need and better understand the perceptions of educators engaged in programming? What is…

Effective leadership is critical for communities as they work to maintain their vitality and sustainability for years to come. The purpose of the study reported here was to assess confidence levels and community engagement of community leadership program participants in North Dakota State University Extension programs. Through a survey…

Studies on the impact of 4-H on former members generally use alumni as one cohort. In rural states, such as Montana, it is important to understand the impact of 4-H on alumni in these rural areas and the role 4-H plays in community involvement. The study reported here sought to determine the perception of current community leaders in rural Montana…

An assessment of Georgia Extension's Community Leadership Program showed that the 12-week training increased networking, improved visibility for local extension staff, developed a unified spirit, gave people a feeling of responsibility and accomplishment, and served as a catalyst for goal setting and action plans. (SK)

A survey of 67 participants in a leadership development program (85% response), interviews with 7 program directors, and 6 focus groups of program alumni revealed the following results of participation: more willingness to challenge the status quo and take risks, broader perspective on leadership roles and responsibilities, improved problem…

The article discusses the role of educator as change agent in community development. Suggestions are offered for resolving the conflicts between education and problem-solving action, neutrality and advocacy, public interests and special interests, and values and facts. (AG)

A survey of 92 volunteer members of boards, committees, and commissions in Carson City, Nevada, received 79 responses. The most important training areas cited were as follows: identification of issues, understanding of community resources, group process, parliamentary procedure and liability, and listening skills. (SK)

Lack of teamwork hinders the development of programs which best meet clientele needs. Developing cooperation between agencies can help Extension plan comprehensive programs to achieve community goals. (JOW)

Reports an interview survey of 200 community leaders in Louisiana regarding the general quality of life, government, economy, human development, and physical facilities. Special attention is given to implications for extension programing. (JT)

This study focusses on finding out how leaders in three small communities view Extension. The results show that community leaders see the importance of Extension primarily as it contributes to the economic development of their communities. The author discusses implication for Extension and outlines some strategies for working with community…

The authors report the results of research aimed at determining who adopts home practices from published information and to what extent these practices are passed on to others. The study helps explain who uses published material from the Extension Service and suggests where limited publication resources might best be used. (Author/JC)

A survey of 118 alumni of the Wisconsin Rural Leadership Program found that the higher the age and the greater the income, the less satisfied they were with the program. Results suggested that leadership development may spark less community participation among those of higher rather than lower socioeconomic status. (SK)

The article presents a strategy for identifying and contacting racial minority groups and organizations in Polk County, Iowa, in order to increase their involvement in extension programs. The research approach was to interview key informants from whose information a directory of such organizations was developed. (MF)