Through life-long learning strategies, the alcorn state university extension program (ASUEP) serves as a proactive, responsive, and collaborative learning organization, committed to the growth and…

Through life-long learning strategies, the alcorn state university extension program (ASUEP) serves as a proactive, responsive, and collaborative learning organization, committed to the growth and development of its targeted clientele. Extension personnel work to improve agricultural related processes, as well as to strengthen families and communities through the dissemination and application of research-generated knowledge. Leadership techniques, collaborative learning, and organizational strategies are also at the core of the extension program's work. This project will therefore provide greater programmatic and geographic focus in addressing issues/needs of limited resource audiences; expand resources of ASUEP thus creating a more efficient responsive and statewide extension system and provide opportunities for greater collaboration, networking and program linkages. This project will also allow ASUEP to make greater contribution to total state extension system. Thus, this project will draw upon the organization's unique strengths and its comprehensive delivery system in delivering educational programs targeted to limited-resource audiences. Hence, the extension professionals will facilitate positive change in the capital river, delta, and coastal regions of mississippi through collaborative educational programs intended to: improve agricultural production systems by providing educational programs and technical assistance to small and limited-resources farmers; improve the health and well-being of families and communities; improve stewardship of natural resources and the environment; develop citizenship, leadership, and life skills of youths through positive youth development programming and steam educational programs; and promote professional growth and development of personnel. The target audience that will benefit from ASUEP include small farmers, single parent families; disadvantaged youth; limited-resource communities; and families with young children.