Michigan State University Extension Community Development programs enhance the quality of life in Michigan through research-based educational programs that help people address concerns about their communities' social, economic and environmental conditions. Some programs are broad based, such as efforts to help community leaders understand the complex social and economic interactions that create pressure for sprawl development. Others are very specific, like the programs to help people form non-profit organizations.
Programs may offer technical assistance to businesses, groups or individuals and provide educational programs for youth, community leaders, associations, private landowners or other interested residents. To see more complete descriptions of community development programs, visit MSU Extension's Community Development and Natural Resources home page.
Strengthening Michigan's Economy: Roles for MSU Extension and the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station
Michigan residents' needs and interests are the driving force behind MSU Extension programs. In 2005-2006, MSUE, along with the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, conducted a comprehensive, statewide process to determine what Michigan citizens saw as the most pressing issues that could be addressed by the organizations’ research and educational programs.
Input was gathered from nearly 10,000 residents through means including focus group sessions with individuals diverse in age, gender, employment, ethnicity and residency; a Web-based survey of citizens; and a statewide State-of-the-State telephone survey by the MSU Institute for Public Policy and Social Research. A key component of the research involved workshops conducted in each of MSU Extension’s 82 county offices, bringing together key community leaders with local MSUE councils and Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station advisory committees to examine each area's unique issues, trends and emerging needs. The following five strategic priorities emerged:
· Developing entrepreneurs
· Promoting healthy lifestyles
· Preparing for the expanding bioeconomy
· Educating and supporting decision makers
· Building leaders for today and tomorrow
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