SUMMER 1999

In this issue Family development approach builds on family strengths 'It's fun and you could learn a lot' -- Kids teach seniors about the Internet IMTC Y2K program goes national Extension attracts new state funding SF 361 helps strengthen Iowa families Special events set K-12 youth discover science, technology through E-SET Cultural communications workshops build understanding with service providers, Hispanic populations CIRAS product design and development -- Working to improve Iowa's future __________ The Extension Connection homepage

IMTC Y2K program goes national The Iowa Manufacturing Technology Center (IMTC), Iowa's manufacturing-extension partnership, has been awarded $700,000 in grants from an alliance of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Small Business Administration, the Small Business Development Center, and the National Manufacturing Extension Program. IMTC will lead the national team and provide curriculum based on its successful Y2K workshops. Iowa is a leading state in providing effective Y2K help to small businesses, rural communities and enterprises of all types.   Extension attracts new state funding ISU Extension received $300,000 in state funding from the Iowa Legislature for value-added agriculture projects and for the food, fiber, and environmental science program, both part of the Extension 21 proposal. ISU Extension also received $150,000 for the Iowa Concern Hotline. In addition, the Iowa Manufacturing Technology Center (IMTC) will be getting another $350,000 that has been routed through the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED).   SF 361 helps strengthen Iowa families ISU Extension's research-based, Strengthening Families program for youth (ages 10-14) and parents received a major vote of support from Iowans when SF 361 was signed into law. This legislation targets communities dealing with methamphetamine concerns. Funding in the legislation provides for prevention education with families. Community facilitators will be trained in the Strengthening Families program and receive incentives and assistance to implement it locally. The goal is that communities will keep the program going within their educational and family support systems. The Strengthening Families program has been recognized by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, and the U.S. Department of Education. The program has been scientifically evaluated in a randomized, controlled test with 442 families.