The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension is a vital component of the state's agricultural and community development infrastructure. As a public service and outreach unit of the University of Georgia, the Cooperative Extension provides research-based education and expertise to the citizens of Georgia, with a focus on improving the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities. With a presence in all 159 counties, the Cooperative Extension is well-positioned to address the unique needs and challenges of each region, from the agricultural heartland of south Georgia to the urban centers of Atlanta and Savannah.
History and Mission
The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension was established in 1914, as part of the national Cooperative Extension System, which was created by the Smith-Lever Act. The mission of the Cooperative Extension is to provide research-based education and expertise to the people of Georgia, with a focus on agricultural production, family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and community resource development. Through its network of county offices, the Cooperative Extension provides personalized support and technical assistance to farmers, families, and communities, helping them to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Program Areas
The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension offers a wide range of programs and services, including:
- Agricultural production: crop and animal production, pest management, and sustainable agriculture
- Family and consumer sciences: nutrition and health, financial management, and family relationships
- 4-H youth development: leadership development, citizenship, and life skills for young people
- Community resource development: community planning, economic development, and environmental conservation
These programs are designed to address the unique needs and challenges of each region, and to provide practical solutions and expert advice to individuals, families, and communities.
| Program Area | Services |
|---|---|
| Agricultural Production | Crop and animal production, pest management, sustainable agriculture |
| Family and Consumer Sciences | Nutrition and health, financial management, family relationships |
| 4-H Youth Development | Leadership development, citizenship, life skills |
| Community Resource Development | Community planning, economic development, environmental conservation |
Impact and Success Stories
The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension has a proven track record of success, with numerous examples of its positive impact on individuals, families, and communities. For example, the Cooperative Extension’s agricultural production programs have helped farmers to increase their yields and improve their profitability, while its family and consumer sciences programs have helped families to improve their nutrition and health and manage their finances more effectively. The Cooperative Extension’s 4-H youth development programs have also had a positive impact on young people, helping them to develop leadership skills and citizenship and prepare for success in their future careers.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension works in partnership with a wide range of organizations and agencies, including:
- Local governments and community organizations
- Agribusinesses and farm organizations
- Health and human services agencies
- Education and research institutions
These partnerships enable the Cooperative Extension to leverage its resources and expertise and to provide comprehensive solutions to the complex challenges facing individuals, families, and communities.
What services does the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension offer?
+The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension offers a wide range of programs and services, including agricultural production, family and consumer sciences, 4-H youth development, and community resource development.
How can I get involved with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension?
+You can get involved with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension by contacting your local county office, attending one of its programs or events, or volunteering with one of its initiatives.
What is the mission of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension?
+The mission of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension is to provide research-based education and expertise to the people of Georgia, with a focus on improving the quality of life for individuals, families, and communities.
