Virginia Cooperative Extension facts for kids
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| Type | Federal-State-County Partnership |
|---|---|
| Established | 1914 |
| Director | Mike Gutter |
| Location |
Headquarters Blacksburg
,
in Virginia
,
|
| Affiliations | Virginia Tech and VSU |
| Website | www.ext.vt.edu |
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a special group that helps people across Virginia learn and grow. Think of it as a helpful friend that shares useful information from two big universities: Virginia Tech and Virginia State University. They work together with local communities to teach about farming, healthy living, and how to make communities better places. They also have awesome programs for young people, like 4-H!
Contents
What is Cooperative Extension?
Virginia Cooperative Extension is part of a bigger idea called the Cooperative Extension Service. This idea started over 100 years ago in the United States. The goal was to share new discoveries from universities with everyday people. This way, everyone could benefit from the latest knowledge.
How it All Started
The idea became official with the Smith-Lever Act of 1914. This law created a partnership between federal, state, and local governments. It connected universities, often called "land-grant universities," with people in their states. These universities had a special job to teach practical skills.
Land-Grant Universities in Virginia
In Virginia, the two main land-grant universities are Virginia Tech and Virginia State University. They are the main sources of information for Virginia Cooperative Extension. Their experts and researchers find new ways to help people.
What Virginia Cooperative Extension Does
Virginia Cooperative Extension helps people in many different ways. They offer workshops, classes, and advice on various topics. Their goal is to improve the lives of Virginians.
Helping with Farms and Nature
- Agriculture: They teach farmers how to grow healthier crops and raise animals. This includes new farming methods and ways to protect the land.
- Natural Resources: They help people understand and protect Virginia's environment. This might involve managing forests or keeping water clean.
- Gardening: They offer tips for home gardeners, from planting vegetables to caring for flowers.
Supporting Families and Homes
- Healthy Living: They provide information on eating well and staying active. This helps families make good choices for their health.
- Money Management: They teach people how to budget and save money. This helps families become more financially secure.
- Home Life: They offer advice on making homes safer and more comfortable.
Building Strong Communities
- Community Development: They work with towns and cities to help them grow. This can include planning for new businesses or improving public spaces.
- Leadership Skills: They help people learn how to be good leaders in their communities. This strengthens local groups and projects.
Programs for Young People: 4-H
- What is 4-H? 4-H is a big part of Virginia Cooperative Extension. It's a program for kids and teens aged 5-18. The "4 H's" stand for Head, Heart, Hands, and Health.
- Learning by Doing: 4-H members learn through fun projects. These projects can be about science, animals, cooking, or even public speaking.
- Developing Skills: 4-H helps young people become leaders and good citizens. They learn important life skills that will help them in the future.
Where to Find Them
Virginia Cooperative Extension has offices all over Virginia. This means they are close to the people they serve.
- Local Offices: You can find an office in almost every county and city. These local offices are where you can get direct help and advice.
- Research Centers: They also have special centers for agricultural research. These centers study new ways to farm and protect natural resources.
- 4-H Centers: There are also special centers just for 4-H activities. These places often host camps and events for young people.
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a great example of how universities can help everyone in a state. They bring knowledge and practical skills right to your neighborhood!
See also
- Cooperative Extension Service
- Virginia Tech
- Virginia Tech College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
- Virginia State University
