In 1903 a group of Iowa farmers cooperated with Iowa State University to establish the "extension idea" - taking the land-grant college to the people. Today Iowa State University Extension partners with citizen groups in every county in Iowa. Here are a few examples of ISU Extension at work in Union County.
Research-based learning opportunities improve quality of life in Union County. Iowa State University Extension brings programs to the people of Union County in the areas of agriculture, business and industry, continuing education, families and youth.
2007 Stakeholder's Report
Impact Story
Union County Extension Council - A county council is elected to determine the direction of programming to meet the needs of Union County citizens. Council meetings occur monthly on a regular basis.
4-H - Union County Extension provides programs for promoting positive youth development. Union County conducts 4-H programming in three modes:
Community Club: There are 11 community clubs in Union County, one club being specific to the study of dogs and another club specific to the study of horses. Clubs meet on a monthly (out of school time) basis to learn life skills through project work. Clubs are lead by youth officers and adult volunteers.
School Enrichment: Extension staff work with teachers and volunteers during the school day or after school providing activities in a non-competitive environment.
Special Interest: Programs focus on specific interests or issues with the structure dependent on the needs of the group. The Horse and Riders and Wiggles and Wags 4-H clubs are examples of special interest youth groups.
Clover Kids - Clover Kids is a 4-H program for children kindergarten through third grade. Activities are done through hands-on learning where kids do an activity, see the results, then talk about what has taken place. The program is offered both after school and as an extension of the 4-H community club.
Youth Plus - The purpose of Youth Plus is to unite all Union County citizens in building a safe and healthy environment. A program sponsored by Youth Plus is Excellence In Education. This program supports asset development in formal and informal educational settings. In addition, Youth Answering the Call of the Community (YACC) is a student led group focused on leadership and philanthropy in the community.
Master Gardeners - Union County offers the Master Gardener program in the winter months. Individuals participating in this program complete the required course curriculum as well as 40 hours or community service. Union County had 24 students graduate from the Master Gardener program in 2003.