Networking adds value to the efforts of the Cooperative Extension Service. Within the community we offer a variety of programs, but by working with other organizations we add value to what we do, and reach more folks!
Within the past year, several of our efforts have been collaborative. The Reality Store, Day Camps, and project groups all benefit from positive commuity relations. And when good things are happening, folks want more......and from our networking, we are informally able to evaulate these relationships, and note that they are more than worth our time! Whether it be a camp scholarship, a need for 110 volunteer judges, donations for our silent auction or anywhere in between, the word is out! Cooperative Extension is a "go to" program.
With ongoing relationships with the Marion County Family Resource and Youth Service Centers, Marion County Schools, 21st Century Learning Center, Girl Scouts, Marion County Public Library, and a variety of other groups, we are able to strengthen and increase our outreach. Commuity relations and marketing have always been an important part of the Cooperative Extension Service. Compared to many groups and organizations, we have been around longer. Because of our partnerships, we are able to bring research based information and years of experience to the table when preparing a program or activity, therefore we establish our importance to our community partners.
So whether it is a youth in agriculture program, or a childcare activity, a workforce preparation event, or a safety camp, the Cooperative Extension service is the source that other groups utilize in getting the word out! And our efforts in marketing Extension's benefits to the community continue.......