Introduction

The Franklin County University Outreach and Extension Center is the front door to the four campuses of the University of Missouri System, Lincoln University and their resources. University Outreach and Extension maintains a unique partnership among federal, state and local governments in providing access to science based information and high quality educational programs, on issues of highest priority, to meet the needs of the citizens of Franklin County and the state of Missouri. The Franklin County Extension Council, as established by the state statute, is a partnership with University Outreach and Extension and USDA-CSREES in the development, implementation and evaluation of extension educational programs.

University Outreach and Extension in Franklin County
The 2000 - 2003 Plan of Work development process for Franklin County began in the fall of 1998 with five deliberative group sessions involving 45 citizens from the county. In those sessions, participants identified the future issues they believed to be of highest concern to the majority of citizens in the county. Over 450 households were asked, through a written survey, to identify their high priority issues and concerns to their family and communities. The priorities emerging from citizen input, along with analysis of the major socio-economic trends in the county, and an assessment of the current outreach and extension programs being offered in the county, provided the basis for the final plan. The plan was jointly developed and written by the county extension council and extension staff.

Background Capsule

Franklin County is located in the east central part of the state of Missouri. The county is bounded by the Missouri River to the North and lies adjacent to the boundary lines of St. Charles, St. Louis and Jefferson Counties. Its location within the St. Louis Metropolitan Statistical Area (SMSA) closely links its economy, growth and community challenges with those of other counties within the St. Louis SMSA.

As one of the larger counties in the state, Franklin County covers a total land area of 922 square miles. Its diverse topography ranges from agricultural rich bottom lands along major rivers and streams, to the scenic forest covered foothills of the Ozarks.

Many county residents enjoy the aura of country living with the close proximity to larger metropolitan areas for jobs, services, health care and entertainment. A balance between rural and urban lifestyles allows and encourages local involvement addressing issues of planned growth, developing and maintaining a healthy local economy, optimal educational opportunities and enhancing our infrastructure to create vibrant communities. Franklin County has many natural amenities which make it an excellent location to live, work and raise a family.

Population

Franklin County has experienced rapid growth for the last 60 years. Population increase via natural increase and net migration has provided a labor force for the St. Louis Metropolitan area as well as for expanding local business opportunity. Planned growth as the population increases and disperses throughout the county is a major issue of concern for both the short and long range future.

As a First Class county operated under the non-charter form of government, current population projections are to exceed 100,000 population in less than ten years. Census estimates for 1998 indicate Franklin County ranks ninth among Missouri counties with a population of 91,763. This gives a population density of almost 100 persons per square mile.

The decades of the 50's, 60's and 70's saw rapid growth in population ranging from 2-3 percent per year. Throughout the 80's and 90's our growth has been in the range of 1-1.5 percent per year. The topography of our ground and escalating land prices may have contributed to the decreased rate.

Within Franklin County, there are eleven incorporated towns or villages. In 1996 they accounted for 40.5 percent of the population. Census figures for 1990-96 show a more rapid citizen growth outside of incorporated areas than within (+6.89 percent incorporated vs 14.02 percent unincorporated). Residents in the unincorporated or rural areas are concerned with issues of transportation, land use, schools, water and sewer availability, taxes and law enforcement. This growth is creating more of a demand for services provided by county government.

In the decade of the nineties, the population age distribution has stayed relatively the same. In 1996, those under five years comprised 7.0 percent of the population. The age group 5-24 years were 30.7 percent of the population. Those 25-65 years of age were 50.4 percent of the population. Those over 65 made up 12.0 percent of the population. In general, compared to the 1970's and '80's, the median population age in Franklin County has gotten slightly older.

The two major components of population change are natural increase (more births than deaths) and net migration (those persons moving to Franklin County). Of the change in population from 1990 to 1997 in Franklin County (10,394 persons), natural change accounted for 33 percent and net migration accounts for 67 percent of the increase. Franklin County's net migration for the nineties is 873 persons, more than two times the net migration from 1980 to 1990.

Franklin County's minority population accounts for 1.6 percent of the total population. The following is a 1996 estimate of the population by race:

White 88,045
Hispanic  605
African American       979
Am Indian, Eskimo, Aleut     168
Asian, Pacific Islander 293

Income

Income levels in Franklin County have increased over the last 30 years. Portions of the increase can be attributed to inflation, however, a portion must be attributed to the continued growth in the county and the economic development efforts of the various communities in attracting high quality manufacturers and businesses providing employment opportunities for its citizens.

Per capita income in Franklin County increased 31 percent from 1990 ($15,906) to 1996 ($20,886). This helped to increase total county personal income over the same period by 45 percent to 1.87 billion.

Transfer payments accounted for 15.1 percent of the total personal income. In 1990, 8.3 percent (6568) of the population of Franklin County lived below the poverty level. This has increased to 9.3 percent (8,373) in 1996. Communities affected tend to be located in the more rural southern areas of the county as indicated by school lunch assistance programs.

Employment

Developing and maintaining a highly trained labor force is of the utmost priority in Franklin County. Franklin County saw a 16.6 percent increase in those employed full or part-time from 1990 to 1996 with 44,013 residents in the labor force.

Women in the labor force increased from 39.8 percent in 1980 to 44.5 percent in 1990. Of these, 74.5 percent of the women had children in the household. The need for adequate day-care has increased.

The number of workers leaving Franklin County for employment each day has steadily increased since 1960. In 1990, 39.5 percent of the work force commuted to work outside the county. The unemployment rate of the total labor force in 1996 was 4.6 percent. Local employment opportunities for county residents have continued to increase over time. Many area communities, by hiring economic development directors or through city government officials have aggressively developed industrial parks and actively recruited high quality tenants. Existing businesses have expanded. There is a growing trend to be self-employed in a specialized business venture. Franklin County in 1994 had a good mix of small (1909), medium (221) and large (45) size businesses.

Most employed county residents are employed in the fields of technical, sales and administrative support; managerial and professional occupations; and service occupations.

 Education

Thirteen public school districts serve Franklin County. Last year, approximately 16,700 students were enrolled in a K-12 Public School program. In terms of absolute growth, Washington, Meramec Valley and Union School Districts were in the top 50 districts in the state for the period 1990-98. In 1997, the high school graduation rate in Franklin County was 73.7 percent, while the annual high school drop-out rate was 6.1 percent. In 1990, 67.6 percent of county residents have graduated from high school or possess the equivalent vs. the 77 percent for the St. Louis Region.

An educated labor force which possesses managerial and technical skills is invaluable to business interests and the community in general. East Central College, Four Rivers Area Vocational School and University Outreach and Extension work to address these needs. Plans are being made to connect the UMSL campus with Franklin County to enhance local post-secondary education.

Agriculture

Agriculture has a deep-rooted heritage in Franklin County. Historically, Franklin County has been one of the prime agricultural counties in the state. There are 570,022 acres of land area in Franklin County. In 1997, 289,608 acres or (50.8 percent) was in farmland. This is a decrease of 1.2 percent from 1992 when 296,281 acres was in farmland. However, the number of farms in the county has increased from 1586 in 1992 to 1592 in 1997. With the increase in number of farms we have seen a decrease in average farm size from 187 acres to 182 acres.

Of the 289,608 acres of farmland in 1997, 180,438 acres (62 percent) are in cropland. Included were 108,943 acres of grain crops and hay along with 71,495 acres of pasture.

The market value of all agricultural products sold in 1997 was approximately $46.6 million as compared to $27.5 million in 1992. Primary agricultural enterprises include beef cattle, hogs, dairy products, hay, corn, soybeans, wheat and pasture. In 1997, livestock and their products contributed 68 percent or $31.8 million as the largest source of farm income in Franklin County. Crops including nursery products and hay accounted for approximately 32 percent or $14.8 million of farm income. Top commodities for value of sales were hogs and pigs, cattle and calves, and soybeans.

In 1997, the Agricultural Census of Franklin County lists farming as the principle occupation on 596 farms (37 percent) and principle occupation other than farming on 996 farms (62.5 percent). Of the 1592 farms in 1997, 70 percent had gross sales of less than $10,000 while 9.5 percent had gross sales of $50,000 or more.

Agriculture and its related businesses are still an important industry in the county even though a loss of land is occurring to residential and industrial development. Farming, open space and rural atmosphere add to the attractiveness of those residents migrating to Franklin County. Land use will be a major issue for Franklin County residents in the future.

Infrastructure

For a county to grow and prosper, it must have an infrastructure which will support present needs as well as develop plans for future needs associated with growth.

The County has over 2400 miles of public roads, over 800 miles of which are maintained by Franklin County Government. Road types in the County range from Interstate 44 to state, county and municipal roads. County residents recently extended the one half cent sales tax to be used for the improvement of the county roads and improvement or replacement of county bridges. The mobility of county residents requires a safe, convenient transportation system.

The issue of crime has been addressed with the passage of a one-fourth cent sales tax for Law Enforcement. County, city and state law enforcement agencies provide a network of coverage for the over 2400 miles of roads located throughout the 922 square miles in Franklin County for 91,763 residents.

Residential and Industrial development in the unincorporated areas of the County have given rise to the formation of sewer and water districts. Proper collection and treatment of waste water as well as supplying fresh water should be developed and maintained. Incorporated areas will need to expand and upgrade their existing facilities. This area will require more attention in the future.

The overall effect of improving the quality of the County's ground water supply and the natural waterways would be to improve the recreational areas and could promote tourism opportunities in Franklin County. There is a rich heritage combined with scenic beauty that draws visitors to explore and enjoy Franklin County.

Program Themes

Helping individuals, families and communities put research-based knowledge to work to improve peoples lives. Based on the priorities expressed by citizens in the county, University Outreach and Extension of Franklin County, have chosen to focus much of our time and resources on four program themes: Children, Youth and Family; Community Viability; Economic Competitiveness; Natural Resource Management and Environmental Education.

 Program Theme 1

Children, Youth and Family

As we develop as a society, one constant we all fall back on is family. Our experiences as we progress through life: childhood, adolescence and adulthood, have a far reaching effect on the quality of our life as well as the society we are asked to function within. Throughout our deliberative group process the topics surrounding children, youth and family surfaced numerous times. Educational programs have been identified that will address issues relating to leadership development, child care, health and nutrition components, and developing a solid family structure.

4-H Youth Development

University Outreach and Extension in Franklin County provides a number of opportunities for the youth of the County to gain the skills and abilities necessary to become competent, caring, and healthy members of their families and communities. There are also many opportunities for adult volunteers to help in this effort.

Training from volunteer leaders is still a much needed commodity. Club leaders, and project leaders are faced with more issues today than in the past, including risk management, and an ever changing 4-H program.

1. Provide complex youth development opportunities by involving Franklin County youth in 4-H clubs, projects, camp and other activities, and regional, state, and national 4-H learning experiences.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 4-H Club membership will increase by 15 percent.
2. At least 50 percent of Franklin County youth who participate in a 4-H club will develop at least one leadership skill in one or more of the following areas: understanding self, communication, getting along with others, learning to learn, making decisions, managing and working in groups.
3. 50 percent of Franklin County 4-H Clubs will report conducting at least one community service project during each program year.
4. 50 percent of Franklin County youth that participate in a 4-H club will acquire at least one of the Search Institutes development assets. In each of the asset types of support, boundaries, structured time use, educational commitment, positive values, and social competencies.
5. 75 percent of 4-H teens who leave the program will report that their participation in a 4-H club has had a positive affect on their lifestyle choices.
6. 50 percent of first year volunteer project leaders will score 80 percent or higher on a Basic Project Leaders Assessment test after receiving training from a UOE staff member, trained volunteer, or self conducted training program.
7. 80 percent of 4-H Club Leaders will score 80 percent or higher on a Club Leader Information Assessment test after receiving training from a UOE staff member, trained volunteer, or self conducted training program.
8. 80 percent of volunteers will report that they feel better prepared to successfully complete the obligation(s) they have accepted as the result of participating in 4-H volunteer training.

Baseline:

Franklin County has a 4-H enrollment of 680 members.
There are 24 4-H Clubs in Franklin County.
Currently, only 15 percent of project leaders receive formal training.
60 percent of Club Leaders have attended Club Leader updates and training meetings.

Indicators:

1. The National 4-H Impact Assessment project is currently collecting data from nearly 10,000 young people. The study is based on the eight critical elements needed by all youth. Missouri 4-H faculty will be trained and have the opportunity to replicate this research study in their own county or counties in 1999-2000. The study can be replicated periodically for indicators of change.
2. Blue Ribbon enrollment data will be used to report number of youth in 4-H clubs, leadership, character education, and life skills programs (projects, judging, demonstrations, exhibits, etc.)
3. Community service logs will be kept by 4-H clubs to show youth and adult involvement in leadership character education, citizenship and youth-adult relationships.

2. Provide simple youth development opportunities by involving Franklin County youth in curriculum driven school enrichment programs such as Talking with TJ, Body Walk, Embryology, Show Me Character, etc., as well as non-curriculum special presentations to meet specific needs of educators.

Measurable Objectives:

1. The number of Franklin County youth participating in simple youth development programming will increase by 25 percent.
2. 90 percent of the students participating in simple youth development will achieve at least one of the four Show-Me Standard goals.

Baseline:

2,100 youth participated in a simple youth development program in the 1998-99 school year.

Indicators:

1. Teachers will evaluate each University Outreach and Extension simple youth development program they conduct with their students.
2. Pre and post test score showing an increase in knowledge of the students that participate in a University Outreach and Extension simple youth development programs.
3. Number of students participating as reported through the Blue Ribbon system.

Peaceful Conflict Resolution

Conflict is an inevitable part of relationships. It can take place within a day or as a function of family or group membership. Although conflict is generally perceived as negative, it has the potential to positively contribute to both relationship quality and personal development. The method of conflict resolution is the determining factor as to whether the outcome will be positive or negative.

Measurable Objectives:

1. By 2003, the number of schools receiving University Outreach and Extension support for Peer Conflict mediation programs will increase to twenty.
2. By 2003, Peer Conflict Mediators trained by University Outreach and Extension staff will peacefully resolve 500 conflicts.
3. By 2003, twenty classrooms will utilize Talking with TJ or other University Outreach and Extension programs to help teach team work and anger management to students.
4. By 2003 an evaluation to determine the effectiveness of Franklin County Peer Conflict Mediation programs will be completed.
5. By 2003, sixty parents will report that they practice at least one new anger management skill.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

1. Eight schools currently collaborate with University Outreach and Extension staff to train Peer Conflict Mediators.
2. An effort will be made to determine how many schools in Franklin County currently have a Peer Conflict Mediation program in place.
3. Eight Classrooms used Talking with TJ in 1998-99.

Parent Education

Deliberative group sessions in Franklin County identified parent education as a need in the county. University Outreach and Extension offers many parent education programs including programs for general and more specific audiences. Parent education opportunities will be provided through University Outreach and Extension, and in collaboration with other agencies and institutions.

The U.S. Census projects that 60 percent of children born today will live in a one-parent household at some time before they reach the age of 18. Research indicates that most single parents marry/remarry to form at least one step family. It is projected that by the year 2010, step families will be the predominant type of family in the United States.

The dynamics of a step-family are quite different from those in a nuclear family. Research shows that the simple act of living in a step-family has no impact on the young people involved, but the quality of the step parent-step child relationship does have an affect. Likewise, 60 percent of second marriages end in divorce. Achieving an understanding of step-family dynamics and learning how to put this understanding into practice can help step-families achieve a sense of well being that allows everyone involved to prosper.

Measurable Objectives:

1. By 2003, one hundred single parents or parents in a step-family will learn and practice at least one skill to help make their step family work as a result of participating in a University Outreach and Extension program.
2. By 2003, one hundred single parents or parents in a step-family will report having overcome one misconception about step- family dynamics as a result of participating in a University Outreach and Extension program.
3. By 2003, one hundred parents of non-specific family styles will learn and practice at least one skill learned from a University Outreach and Extension presentation.
4. Twenty-five percent of families visiting a University Outreach and Extension parent fair booth will seek additional information about parenting from the Franklin County University Outreach and Extension Center.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

1. % of children living with both parents
2. % of children living in single parent households
3. % of children born to unwed mothers.
4. Number of parents who attend University Outreach and Extension parent education programs
5. Number of parents visiting University Outreach and Extension booths at parent fairs.
6. Number of requests for parenting information received.

 Child Care Provider Education

A significant number of children in the County are cared for during the day in home and center care programs. The quality of care provided and the degree to which the experience contributes to children's ability to succeed in school is related to care givers' specialized training and education. Participants need 12 training clock hours per year. Two-hour training classes and four-hour workshops presenting various topics related to aspects of child development, administration, and other areas of concern in the child care setting will be offered.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 100 home and center based child care providers as well as after school providers will report increased knowledge after attending specialized training programs.
2. 75 home and center based child care providers as well as after school providers will adopt one or more recommended practices presented in the specialized training programs.

Baseline Data:

In Franklin County, 69 percent of women with children under age six are working outside the home. Twenty-nine percent of the population is under 18. Conversations with the Health Department Licensing Agent reveal that there is a shortage of licensed child care providers in the county. Infant care is especially difficult to find. Turnover among providers is high.

Indicators:

1. Total number of providers who attended the programs.
2. Total number of providers who indicate increased knowledge of specialized areas taught in the program.
3. Total number of providers who adopt one or more skill or practices recommended by the program.
4. Percent of providers participating in the program who indicate a need for additional education in specialized areas.

 Building Strong Families

Families are the basic building block for communities. All families have strengths and areas of frustration. Families need assistance to better manage time, money, stress, gain parenting skills, and relate in positive ways to other family members.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Twenty families will attend a series of workshops to learn positive steps to improve family strengths.
2. Twenty individuals will adopt two or more practices taught in the classes to strengthen their family.

Baseline Data:

In Franklin County, families feel frustrated with busy lifestyles. Single parent households are stressed for time and money, which affects their parenting skills. According to the Kids Count Report, 13 percent of children live in single parent families. Sixty-nine percent of women with children under the age of six are in the workforce. The median household income is $37,065. Thirty-nine percent of parents are paying child support in the state system. Twenty percent of births are to mothers with less than 12 years of education.

Indicators:

1. Total number of parents who attend five out of seven parenting sessions.
2. Number of parents who adopt two or more positive practices that improve family well-being.
3. Percent of parents who report increased knowledge about characteristics of strong families as shown in post-class evaluations.

 Comprehensive School Health Nutrition and Food Safety Education and Services

The Comprehensive School Health Nutrition and Food Safety Education program provides nutrition and food safety education training and resources for elementary and secondary teachers. The training and resources support school personnel as they use the nutrition principles and practices component of Missouri's Framework for Curriculum Development in Health Education and Physical Education to help students achieve the nutrition knowledge and performance standards of the Show-Me Standards. The training and resources also support the nutrition education component of Team Nutrition and the USDA School Meals Initiative for Healthy Children. Teachers and school food service personnel with training and resources are better able to link classroom nutrition education activities and school nutrition services in order to give students opportunities to practice healthy eating behaviors.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Teacher training will be provided in the East Central Region.
2. At least 20 teachers and school foodservice personnel will take part in the training each year.
3. Seventy-five percent of participating teachers will implement some new nutrition education activities into their curricula after the training.

Baseline Data:

This is a new program for Franklin County.

Indicators:

1. Number of teachers that take the workshop.
2. Number of teachers that report inclusion of new nutrition education to their curricula.

Nutrition and Food Safety Education

A monthly food safety and preservation newsletter published April - October, workshops for volunteer food handlers, nutrition conferences and classes, classroom visits, individual consultations, media releases, and supporting educational materials are key program delivery strategies.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Increase by 50 percent each year the number of subscribers to the Quality for Keeps newsletter.
2. 40 percent of the subscribers returning evaluations will report adopting one or more safe practices from the newsletter.
3. Twenty volunteer food handlers will attend a workshop on safe food handling each year.
4. Twenty nutrition and other professionals will attend a professionally accredited workshop each year.

Baseline Data:

1. In 1998, four hundred Franklin County residents subscribed to the Quality for Keeps Food Preservations newsletter which has been published for 12 years and consistently yields high marks for changing client food safety practices.
2. An Occasional Quantity Cooks workshop is held annually to teach food safety practices to volunteer cooks in civic and community organization in Franklin County.
3. A column, written by Extension nutrition specialists on nutrition and food safety topics appears weekly in the Suburban Journals to most households in East West Region.

Indicators:

1. Numbers of Franklin County subscribers to Quality for Keeps Food Preservation newsletter.
2. Numbers of subscribers to QFK who change food handling practices.
3. Number of food handlers that attend Occasional Quantity Cooks workshops.
4. Responses to newsletter columns to county extension offices.

Healthy Eating and Fitness

Obesity and poor eating habits are known risk factors for a number of chronic health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some forms of cancer. The role of nutrition and diet in reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases has been well documented. Nutrition experts recommend choosing a wide variety of foods from all the food groups in the Food Guide Pyramid. The average American diet does not meet these guidelines.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Seventy percent of participants will be able to list at least two benefits of healthy eating and increased physical activity.
2. 1000 students will participate in Body Walk, a nutrition, health and fitness project from the Governors Council on Fitness.
3. Twenty-five nursing students will identify two behaviors that improve nutritional status of women.

Baseline Data:

As a whole, Missouri citizens, like most other Americans, eat a poorer diet than recommended by the U.S. Surgeon Generals' Office and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to a recent survey (1996 CD-BRFSS), 33 percent of adult Missourians are obese, and only 21 percent consume the recommended five portions of fruits and vegetables daily. The failure to achieve nutrition objectives established in a HP2000 shows the need for continued emphasis on healthy eating and physical activity.

Indicators:

1. Number of requests for information and programs.
2. Number of students who participate in Body Walk.
3. Number of participants who identify one or more practices that will improve their diet or health.

 Family Nutrition Education Program

FNEP is a federally funded grant matched program. The in-kind match is received from local and state organizations. The (FNEP) is designed to reach individuals who receive or are eligible for food stamps. FNEP teaches nutrition skills and behaviors to help participants improve their nutritional status, well being and develop a healthier lifestyle. The curricula are planned to reach school age youth, senior citizens and pregnant teens.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 1,000 youth will participate in FNEP. Participants will develop new skills and learned behaviors to improve their well being.
2. Fifty percent of youth in FNEP will improve nutrition knowledge, and 20 percent will improve their diets by increasing nutrition consumption of fruits and vegetables.
3. Twenty pregnant and lactating teens will participate in Great Beginnings. Participants will report adoptions of one or more practices to improve their well being.
4. One hundred senior citizens will participate in the Senior Series.
5. 1,000 students will participate in Body Walk.

Baseline Data:

Missouri provides a maximum of $292.00 in cash monthly for a family of three, far below the Federal Poverty level of $1,111 per month. Food stamps could provide up to $315.00 additional monthly to the family. According to Kids Count, in Franklin County 4,117 children or 13 percent of all Franklin County children are receiving free/reduced lunches. Nineteen percent of children in Franklin County are receiving food stamps.

Indicators:

1. Number of participants who graduated from the Family Nutrition Program.
2. Number of participants who adopted one or more practices to improve the management of their food stamps.
3. Number of participants who made one or more changes in their lifestyle, that contributes to their well being.
4. Number of students showing increased knowledge through program evaluation.
5. Number of students reporting improved knowledge of nutrition after participating in Body Walk.

Community Viability

The role of communities in building a better lifestyle for Franklin County residents is extremely important. Franklin County citizens share responsibility to develop communities that are able to thrive at the local, regional and global levels. University Outreach and Extension will help communities, local governments, and formal or informal citizen groups in dealing with issues, problems and opportunities affecting them.

Leadership Development/ Organizational Development and Assistance

University Outreach and Extension provides or facilitates educational opportunities for leaders of all ages and provides educational resources to related community organizations to help them fulfill their mission.

Measurable Objectives:

1. In each program year, University Outreach and Extension will offer leadership skills development opportunities to citizens of all ages.
2. University Outreach and Extension will work to provide leadership opportunities for youth.
3. Two community organizations will be assisted in providing educational programming for their members.

Indicators:

1. Community based initiatives supported or strengthened by participants in programs.
2. Participants satisfaction with programs and instruction.
3. Follow-up requests for assistance.

Community Cooperation

University Outreach and Extension will work with elected officials, county institutions, organizations and residents to foster inter-organizational communication and county-wide cooperation. Assistance may range from building coalitions to addressing community issues, facilitating networks that strengthen social capital to mobilizing internal or external resources to address a specific community need. A community's economic stability depends on community cooperation and wise use of resources.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Provide and facilitate research-based information to elected officials, county institutions, organizations and residents upon request.
2. University Outreach and Extension will work with at least two community organizations per year to help them gain new skills in building community networks and coalitions.

 Indicators:

1. Location of meetings attended by University Outreach and Extension staff.
2. Number and type of educational and technical assistance given to community groups.

 Program Theme 3

Economic Competitiveness

The long-term success of any community depends on the diversity, economic competitiveness and prosperity of those businesses that comprise the economic network within which the citizens live, work and raise their families. A major goal in Franklin County is to attract, develop and maintain an economic community that will provide the type of jobs to area workers that improve their overall standard of living. Businesses must be willing to give back to the community and use local resources wisely for future generations. University Outreach and Extension can provide educational assistance to help businesses succeed thereby helping Franklin County residents and communities succeed. Results of the deliberative group process indicated county residents want good jobs, development of a highly skilled labor force and to maintain profitability and viability in agriculture.

A good economic base is essential to strong communities and quality life for individuals and families. It has been estimated that as many as 80% of new jobs come from retaining present employees and/or expansion of existing businesses. A major need identified in Franklin County is the necessity of a skilled, prepared workforce. In an attempt to improve the odds of long -term business success, UOE will provide assistance to existing businesses through direct interaction, and development of mutually beneficial partnerships to transfer skills, knowledge, and services that are designed to improve management performance. Training and educational counseling activities related to owning and managing a business i.e. strategic planning, human resource management, legal responsibilities, computer applications, marketing, and financial analysis, etc. will be conducted. A newsletter focusing on quality will be distributed to Manufacturers in Franklin, Washington, Warren, Ste. Genevieve and St. Charles counties.

Measurable Objectives:

1. By 2003, 100 business owners/managers will participate in workshops that address topics pertinent to improve management and business performance. 75% of participants will report increased knowledge in the topics covered in training.
2. By 2003, 20 business owners will receive high quality, effective and responsive assistance to a specific information request. 25% will receive 10+ hours of personalized business assistance.
3. Improve public relations with existing businesses, by informing them of the business assistance resources available through UOE.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Through clientele survey and individual reports from small business owners and managers and government and non-profit organizational leaders who participate in the business and industry programs, information will be gathered that captures the changes in one or more of the following areas:

• Number of existing businesses participating in the training.
• Number of existing businesses receiving one-on-one counseling.
• Increases in use of business resource.
• Adoption of recommended practices and client satisfaction.
• Increase in reported business profits.
• Amount of new clientele business loans secured.
• Sales generated by businesses.
• Taxes paid by businesses.
• Number of new jobs created by clientele.

Business Start-Up Education and Assistance

Business start-up resources will be targeted at individuals in the county who want to pursue self-employment (traditional or home based). This program will provide information on evaluating the feasibility of a business idea, writing a business plan, locating sources of finance, licensing requirements, and legal structure. Introductory information on marketing, record keeping and tax will also be provided. Information will be made available through a "Business Start-Up" Kit, one-on-one consultations, individual topical workshops, and/or a comprehensive 6-8 week start-up series.

Measurable Objectives

1. By 2003, 90 individuals will have received and utilized information contained in the "Business Start-Up" kit.
2. By 2003, 75 individuals will have received one-on-one counseling related to starting their own business. 20% of these individuals will successfully start their own business.
3. Individual 2-3 hour topical workshops on Business Start-Up.

Indicators and Baseline:

Baseline data reflecting the number of business/merchants licenses issued by the County Collectors office will be compiled. Data reflecting the number of businesses that fail each year by county is not available at this time.

1. Total number of individuals receiving start-up information.
2. Total number of individuals receiving one-on-one counseling.
3. Total number of new business formations.
4. Total number of individuals who decide not to start a business based on counseling and training information.
5. Total number of new clients securing start-up financing.
6. Total number of individuals participating in start-up workshops.
7. Total number of participants who report increased knowledge following training.
8. Positive feedback secured from participants in post-conference evaluations.

 Competitive Marketing

Businesses today - small & large, rural and urban, increasingly compete in a global marketplace. A large number of businesses are now utilizing the Internet to market their products, generate sales leads, conduct training and business transactions. Programming in this area will be designed to increase the skills of business owners in conducting Internet information searches, evaluating if they should/should not have a presence on the Internet evaluating and /or establishing training programs for their employees, choosing a webmaster, and make decisions on web page content and location, etc.

Measurable Objectives

Courses and Information programs for business owners will be offered on a rotational basis in the Franklin County area. By 2003, 50 individuals will have received information. 20% will launch a business web page and 3 will participate in Web based training for their employees.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

No existing data is available on the number of businesses in the county that currently have/utilize an Internet web page as a marketing tool. No existing data is available on the effectiveness of training employees using the Internet.

1. Total number of businesses participating in Internet training.
2. Total number of businesses that develop a web page.
3. Total number of requests for Internet-related resource materials.
4. Companies that participate in Web training with their employees.

 Agricultural Profitability and Viability

Agriculture has embraced technology to maintain a competitive edge in today's global market. Producers must fine tune their production systems, improve their record-keeping, develop comprehensive marketing plans, and adapt new methods of production as they become available.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Fifty farms will improve production efficiencies by soil testing, forage testing, ration balancing and using integrated pest management information.
2. Fifty farms will improve forage management.
3. Fifty farms will explore opportunities for adding value to their production.
4. Ten farms will enhance their marketing skills.
5. 1000 farmers will request information on crop and livestock production.
6. Twenty-five farmers will consider new pesticides to reduce costs or improve yields.

Indicators:

1. Number of soil tests and forage tests processed and rations balanced.
2. Number of farms requesting and using forage recommendation information.
3. Number of farmers who use variety yield trial results to select varieties to plant.
4. Number of farmers who say they changed herbicides or insecticides to improve efficacy or cut costs.
5. Number of farmers attending technology update meetings.

 Small / Part-time Farming Enterprises

There continues to be growing use of rural land for small or part-time farming enterprises: a place to live more than a business. Small acreages are being purchased or operated by people who prefer the open country, a rural lifestyle, and the opportunity to engage in a small level of agricultural production to supplement income. Missouri ranks second in the nation in number of farms. Proprietors have a need for basic information and skills to achieve their goals.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Twenty-five farms will take soil samples and utilize the results for the first time.
2. Seventy-five farmers will request information on new enterprises for their farm.
3. Ten farms will add value to the products they produce and improve their marketing skills.
4. Twenty farmers will look for ways to cut costs in their enterprises.

Indicators:

1. Farmers will indicate increased revenues or decreased costs as a result of following recommended practices.
2. Farmers will indicate use of soil test information increased yields.
3. Numbers of small farm proprietors requesting information.

 Homeowner Horticulture

Homeowners devote a significant amount of time, effort and resources to developing, maintaining and enjoying the aesthetic beauty of their property. Frequent requests for information include the areas of lawn establishment and maintenance, landscaping, vegetable, fruit and nut production. Information is tendered regarding the identification and control of diseases and pests found in and around the home. Many Franklin County residents look to their home gardens to supply a fresh and safe source of food for their family.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Two hundred homeowners will request information on pest control in and around the home or garden.
2. Fifty homeowners will use soil test results to properly fertilize their lawn, garden or orchard.
3. Two hundred home gardeners will request information on fruit and vegetable production.
4. Fifty homeowners will request information on lawn establishment and maintenance.
5. Twenty-five gardeners will request information on marketing their extra produce.
6. Fifty homeowners will request assistance associated with disease and pest control on their landscape plants.

Indicators:

1. Homeowners will indicate the integrated pest management control strategies suggested by University Outreach and Extension helped them control their problem.
2. Homeowners will indicate improved production of their lawn or garden as a result of using soil test results.
3. An increase in the number of requests for home horticulture information.

 Master Gardener Program

The Master Gardener Program in Franklin County will give participants 45 hours of training with the expectations that they will give back 30 hours of education to their community. Requests for horticulture information are growing in Franklin County as the county grows. This program will help address some of these requests. The program will also raise the level of horticulture awareness in the county.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Twenty people will be trained to become Master Gardeners in Franklin County.
2. Five hundred people will be reached by education provided by Master Gardeners in Franklin County.
3. A Master Gardener speakers bureau will be formed with at least five speakers available to do programs.

Indicators:

1. At least 90% of Master Gardeners complete training.
2. Master Gardeners educate people about home horticulture topics.
3. Master Gardeners indicate that the program is a positive experience and should be repeated for others.
4. People who receive education from Master Gardeners indicate that the training was quality education and should

 Program Theme #4 Environment Education / Natural Resource Management

Maintenance and stewardship of our natural resources will assure their use and enjoyment by many generations in the future. In Franklin County, citizens appreciate and enjoy the abundance of natural beauty and take steps to preserve the environment. By educating citizens about the effects practices or products have on our environment and natural resources we can reduce or eliminate potential hazards. Educational programs have been designed to address citizen concerns on issues of water quality, on-site sewage disposal, soil erosion, air quality, pesticide safety, solid and hazardous waste disposal, agroforestry and natural resource enhancement.

Natural Resource Management

Landowners recognize the need to maintain and enhance the rich natural resource bas in Franklin County. The forest covered Ozark-foothills in Franklin County, when properly managed, can be utilized as a source of income as well as recreation. Educational programs and information will assist landowners in forest management, pond and lake management, improving wildlife habitat and pest control.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Twenty-five landowners will be assisted in maximizing their use of forest land on their property.
2. Twenty-five landowners will receive information on pond and lake management.
3. Fifty landowners will receive information on enhancing the recreational opportunities of their property.

Indicators

1. Requests for forest management information.
2. Requests for pond and lake management information.
3. Attendance by producers in natural resource meetings.

 Water Quality

The people of Franklin County are concerned about maintaining a safe clean water supply. Bacteria, nutrients and pesticides are some of the major contaminants that threaten water supplies.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Fifty people in the county will learn about potential sources of water contamination.
2. Twenty five people in the county will learn about proper management of their on-site sewage disposal system
3. Twenty five homeowners will learn about proper use of fertilizers and pesticides in their home gardens and lawns.
4. Twenty five farmers will work with University Outreach and Extension to improve nutrient management on the farm.

Indicators

1. People who learn about water quality will indicate that they will make changes in their activities related to their water source. They may test their water and have their well checked for proper construction.
2. People who learn about their on-site sewage disposal system will indicate they will develop a plan to maintain their system to prevent it from failing.
3. Homeowners will apply fertilizers and pesticides in ways to minimize adverse effects on the environment.
4. Farmers will optimize the use of nutrients on their farms to improve crop production, reduce costs and minimize the impact on the environment.

Soil Conservation

Farmers have made great strides in reducing soil erosion, but there is still much to be done. Recent information from the Conservation Tillage Information Center suggests that farmers have slowed or even reversed their adoption of no-tillage farming practices. Soil erosion reduces soil productivity and degrades environmental quality.

Measurable objectives:

1. Fifty farmers will learn the advantages of using no-till farming practices.
2. One hundred students will learn about the impacts of erosion and what can be done to prevent erosion.
3. Ten contractors will learn how to prevent erosion when doing construction.

Indicators:

1. Farmers will report using no-till successfully.
2. Students will show enthusiasm for conserving soil.
3. Contractors will implement erosion control strategies to prevent erosion on construction sites.

Household hazardous wastes

Household hazardous wastes can include pesticides, paint, batteries, cleaners and many other everyday items that become a serious problem when they need to be disposed.

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Introduction

The Jefferson County University Outreach and Extension Center is the front door to the resources of the four campuses of the University of Missouri and Lincoln University. University Outreach and Extension maintains a unique partnership among federal, state and local governments providing local access to University research based resources. These resources are necessary to provide high quality educational programs on issues of highest priority to meet the needs of the citizens of Jefferson County, the East Central Region, and the state of Missouri. The Jefferson County Extension Council, as established by state statute, is a partner with University Outreach and Extension and USDA-CSREES in development, implementation and evaluation of extension educational programs.

University Outreach and Extension recognizes that Jefferson County families and communities, and the environment that surrounds them, are undergoing significant changes. Over the next four years, University Outreach and Extension will provide educational programs that help families and communities take advantage of positive changes and minimize the negative impacts of change. Specifically, we will work in three areas: building strong families, creating vibrant communities, and maintaining a healthy environment.

These program priorities have been selected as a result of the plan of work development process in Jefferson County. The plan of work process began in the fall of 1998. The Jefferson County Extension Council, with assistance from the local extension staff, used input from a variety of sources to develop a list of major program areas to address issues and opportunities facing Jefferson County. Resources for this effort included input from Jefferson County Master Plan process, UO/E's own deliberative group meeting, a review of the major socio-economic trends facing the county, and an assessment of the current outreach and extension programs being offered. Through these processes, over 700 county residents and organizations provided input into the Plan of Work.

It is evident from the responses to the program planning process, that Jefferson County citizens are concerned about their future. While most citizens accept that change is inevitable, they believe that they should not accept a lower quality of life. Citizens believe that jobs and employment should be expanded with the development of a technological and professional workforce. They want more industry, but not at the risk of harming the environment. They believe in high quality housing, but not at the expense of open space. County residents seek high quality educational opportunities for both adults and youth, preservation of the family farm, a comprehensive parks system, preservation of historic and archeological features, safe and coordinated transportation systems, quality drinking water, and protection of the environment. Finally, they want local governments that work together and communicate with their constituents.

Jefferson County was officially formed on December 8, 1818 with Herculaneum, then a town of 200 serving as the County seat. By 1950, Jefferson County had a population of 38,000, nearly 9,000 more than St. Charles County and 2,000 more than Franklin County. Jefferson County continued to experience rapid growth spurts during the period of post-war suburban growth in the St. Louis region. The County increased in population by 75% between the period of 1950 and 1960 and by over 350% between the period of 1950 to 1990.

The U.S. Census Bureau classifies slightly more than one-third of the County as urban with the remainder classified as rural. Over 50 square miles of the County is currently developed in an urban manner.

The population density of the County has increased by 351% since 1950 from 57.7 persons per square mile to 260.1 persons per square mile in 1990. The land area used for urban purposes has increased by 2,186% over the same time period. This consumptive land use pattern is often referred to as urban or suburban sprawl. This pattern has reduced the amount of land in the County maintained as woodland (less than 50%), land maintained in agricultural production (less than 120,000 acres) and has increased the amount of land dedicated to roadways (over 650 miles of public roads).

The 1998 population estimate for Jefferson County is 196,500, with projections of a population of 222,000 by 2015. The 1998 population estimate represents an increase in population of nearly 90,000 since 1970.

Approximately 99% of Jefferson County's population are white, with only approximately 1,200 non-white persons residing in the County. From 1980 to 1990, the non-white population decreased by approximately 33%.

The median age in Jefferson County is 30.7 years, younger than that of the 33.3 years median age of the St. Louis region. Approximately 8% of the population is less than five years of age. Approximately 70% of the population is eighteen and over. Approximately 8% of the population is aged sixty-five and over.

In 1996, the number of total live births in Jefferson County was 2,717 with 29% occurring out of wedlock. 33.2% of the mothers were on Medicaid, 32.7% on WIC, and 25.6% on both. In 1996, there were 396 births to teen mothers.

In 1996, there were 508 births to mothers with less than a high school education. In this same year, there were 330 births to teen mothers.

In 1990, 5.6% (3,312) of the households in Jefferson County had a female head of household with children.

11.2% of school-aged children were living in poverty in 1993. In 1996, 351 children were receiving subsidized childcare. 16.3% (9,258) of children were receiving aid under the AFDC program in 1996. 18.7% (10,621) of children were enrolled in Medicaid in 1996. In 1996, there were 7,548 students enrolled in the free or reduced school lunch program.

Employment opportunities for County residents have continued to increase over time, though the unemployment rate has continued to outpace that of the region. 87,818 residents of Jefferson County were in the labor force in 1994. The 1994 unemployment rate of 4.8% was just over the 4.4% rate for the St. Louis region. Most employed County residents are employed in the fields of technical sales, personnel, or administrative support followed by operators, fabricators, or laborers.

In 1990, 67% of residents of Jefferson County traveled outside of the County to work, more than in any other area of the St. Louis region. These residents also face the highest travel time to work in the St. Louis region, 29.34 minutes in 1990.

Employment opportunities within the County have grown by 58% during the period of 1980-1990 reaching a total of 3,046 businesses in 1993. This rate of expansion far outpaces that of the St. Louis region (58% vs. 13%). By far, these business establishments tend to be small businesses, employing fewer than 50 employees. Most employ fewer than 10 employees (80% have fewer than 10 employees).

The continued growth and development of Jefferson County has contributed to residents maintaining a steady median household income. Median household income in 1989 was $32,281 vs. $31,837 for the St. Louis region. This figure indicates that Jefferson County median household income was 101% of the same for the St. Louis region in 1989. This same comparison in 1980 yielded a figure of 103%.

Median family income in Jefferson County was $35,563 in 1990 vs. $38,286 for the St. Louis region. Per capita income in Jefferson County was $12,226 in 1990 vs. $14,999 for the St. Louis region. This figure indicates that Jefferson County per capita income was 81.5% of the same for the St. Louis region in 1990. This same comparison in 1980 yielded a figure of 86.4%.

In 1990, 6% of the families in Jefferson County lived below the poverty level vs. 7.3% for the St. Louis region. In 1995, 5,833 people in Jefferson County received Medicaid payments, 11,893 received food stamps, and 2,137 received assistance through Aid to Families with Dependent Children.

Generally, households with income below the poverty level tend to be located within the older southern cities (DeSoto, Festus, etc.) Although, Kimmswick has the highest concentration, with 16.1% of the families in Kimmswick living below the poverty rate in 1990. Similar households are found in the unincorporated areas surrounding these cities. The areas south of Crystal City and Festus having the highest, with 16.6% of the families in these areas living below the poverty rate.

Eleven public school districts serve Jefferson County. Last year, 35,225 students were enrolled in a K through 12 Public School. All of the public schools districts in Jefferson County are currently classified as "accredited" under the state's accreditation program.

Jefferson College is the main higher education institution in the County. Total enrollment for 1997 reached 3,963.

In 1996, 6.7% of the total number of public high school students in the County dropped out of school. 72% of County residents have graduated from high school or possess the equivalent vs. 77% for the St. Louis region. 5.8% of the County's residents posses an Associates Degree vs. 5.2 % for the St. Louis region. 6.0% of the County's residents have a Bachelor's Degree vs. 15.0% for the St. Louis region. 2.9% of the County's residents have a graduate or Professional Degree vs. 7.9% for the St. Louis region.

The County has over 650 miles of public roads, three-fourths of which are maintained by Jefferson County government. Road types in the County range from Interstate 55 to county and municipal roads. Over five million vehicle miles were traveled daily in Jefferson County in 1995. The amount of daily trips made in Jefferson County have increased dramatically in just the past ten years, with most major roads experiencing at least a 50% increase in trips, many experiencing a 100% or higher increase within that time frame.

Increased trips and miles traveled often contribute to increases in congestion and accidents. Some 2,888 traffic accidents were reported in 1994 on the state maintained roads in Jefferson County. The situation is troubling in that trends indicate traffic volumes are increasing significantly on the roads least likely to be able to accommodate the increase safely. The result is likely to be increased congestion and increase severity of accidents.

A study conducted by East-West Gateway Coordinating Council in 1991, found that 67% of the available park-n-ride spaces in the County were utilized daily. Over 15% of all commuters in Jefferson County car pool daily to and from work.

Jefferson County is one of 114 counties in the State of Missouri and is operated under the 1^st Class non-charter sections of the Missouri Revised State Statutes. This form of government utilizes three commissioners, a 1^st and 2^nd District Commissioner elected by the residents of that District and a Presiding Commissioner, elected at large.

In addition to the County government, Jefferson County includes 13 municipalities operating under various forms of government, including village, third and fourth classes. Countywide, 68 units of local government operate, ranging from the County Commission to school districts, special road districts, library districts, and sewer districts.

More than 90,000 residents of Jefferson County are registered voters representing approximately 74% of the residents in the County age 18 or older.

The following programs have been designed to meet the challenges of growth and change in Jefferson County.

Building Strong Families

Fifty years ago, 38,000 people lived in Jefferson County. The world was very different then - high technology meant the radio; jobs and employment meant one wage earner; communication usually meant send a letter; family meant two parents - one at home; jobs and employment meant local business; and food and nutrition oftentimes meant locally grown "meat and two vegetables."

As we approach the 21^st century, the world is a very different place for the 200,000 people living in Jefferson County. From broad societal changes in work patterns and technology to personal changes in food systems, family relationships and employment, Jefferson County families need critical skills to thrive in the 21^st century. In response to these challenges and opportunities, University Outreach and Extension offers a broad spectrum of multidisciplinary programs to help create strong families.

1. Personal Economic Well Being

University Outreach and Extension will provide educational programming that promote personal finance skills for Jefferson County citizens at any age.

1. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT programs help individuals and families improve their decision making abilities regarding financial and non-financial resources. The programs are done in coordination with community agencies, schools and local coalitions.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

Increasing the well being of families and individuals in Jefferson County will build stronger family structures and more functional communities. University Outreach and Extension cooperates with social and civic organizations to educate the citizens of the county on efficient use of resources.

Measurable Objectives

1. 200 participants will attend the programs

2. 150 participants will adopt resource/ financial management practices recommended in the program

3. 100 participants will re-evaluate current financial situation and make needed adjustments

Indicators

1. Number of participants showing increased knowledge through program evaluation process

2. Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence and control over their resources and financial management practices through the program evaluation process

3. Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the program evaluation process

Baseline Data:

Families struggle with the day to day expense of living. Each year there are several requests form agencies, community groups, families, and individuals for basic budgeting and financial management programs. Programs have been presented that encompass the many aspects of financial management skills.

2. Life-skills programs teach participants basic survival skills that promote self-sufficiency and enhance individual's abilities to participate in consumer markets.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

The national welfare to work effort has led many county residents to seek basic survival skills to transition from being government supported to being self-supporting. The county data shows a growing number of poverty level residents. University Outreach and Extension will cooperate with county social service agencies in developing productive citizens

Measurable Objectives

1. 100 participants will attend the programs
2. 80 participants will adopt basic money management practices
3. 50 participants will develop budgets and/or establish or re-establish credit

Indicators

Number of participants showing increased knowledge through program evaluation process.

1. Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in money-management practices.
2. Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the program evaluation process.

Baseline Data:

In 1995, 5,833 people in Jefferson County received Medicaid payments, 11,893 received food stamps, and 2,137 received assistance through Aid to Dependent Families.

3. HO.M.E. (Home Ownership Made Easier) is a program, which prepares first-time homebuyers to make the complicated decisions required in the home buying process. The program is jointly planned and implemented by University Outreach and Extension and several other federal, state and local agencies. The program will be taught to groups face-to-face and over interactive television.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

The Jefferson County Master Plan indicates a need to stabilize and enhance existing neighborhoods. The University Outreach and Extension Home Ownership Made Easier program is aimed at helping citizen acquire homes and stabilize existing neighborhoods.

Measurable Objectives

1. 200 first-time homebuyers will determine the price home they can afford
2. 150 participants will report adoption of one or more financial management practices recommended in the program
3. 120 participants will purchase a home

Indicators

1. Number of participants showing increased knowledge through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process
2. Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in home buying process through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process
3. Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process
4. Number of participants who purchase a home upon completion of the course through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process

Baseline Data:

With the rapidly expanding new home purchases in the Hwy. 55 and 30 corridors, new homes are being purchased, often times without much prior knowledge of how the process works. The HOME program has been designed to assist the first-time homebuyer in his buying decisions. The program has been presented in Jefferson County once with minimum participation. With expanded promotion and awareness of the program, more first-time buyers can learn of the program benefits.

4. HomeWorks is a program which promotes successful homeownership through the development of home maintenance and financial management skills related to ownership of a home.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

The Jefferson county Master Plan indicates a need to stabilize and enhance existing neighborhoods. University Outreach and Extension HomeWorks program is a home maintenance program developed by University Extension and Outreach to help homeowners address the concerns of home ownership. The program promotes taking pride in your home and your neighborhood.

Measurable Objectives

1. 80 homeowners will identify preventative home maintenance practices they can do to maintain their home
2. 80 homeowners will identify financial management practices related to homeownership

Indicators

1. Number of participants showing increased knowledge through HomeWorks evaluation process
2. Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in maintaining their home and managing the finances related to home ownership
3. Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the HomeWorks evaluation process

Baseline Data :

This is a new program being offered across the state to assist homeowners once the purchase process has been completed. Existing homeowners of Jefferson County should also benefit from the program’s multi-discipline approach.

2. Economic Opportunity for All

University Outreach and Extension will provide skill training and educational opportunities to persons or companies who have or desire to begin or expand their own business -- with a special focus on small businesses, home based businesses, and family agricultural enterprises.

1. Assistance for Small Business – Small businesses often need training in accounting, advertising, and other basic functions. University Outreach and Extension provides training as well as consultation to small business owners.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

Eighty percent of Jefferson County businesses employ less that ten people. Small business by far exceeds large businesses in providing employment opportunities in the county.

Measurable Objectives

1. Increase the number of training classes held for small businesses
2. By survey, determine that 90% of those attending a training class will use the information to improve the efficiency of their small business
3. Provide assistance to those needing counseling to start or successful operate a small business

 Indicators

1. Number of classes held.
2. Per cent of attendees that use the presented information.
3. Number of clients receiving counseling

Baseline Data

Four classes designed for small business owners were held last year. None were evaluated against these objectives.

2. Keeping Family Farms Competitive – University Outreach and Extension provides a number of opportunities for family farms to gain the necessary information to stay competitive in a global agriculture marketplace. Services such as soil testing, weed and insect identification, and plant disease analysis help producers maximize production and control pests. Producers can call for information or even receive an on-the-farm consultation. The latest information is available in the Jefferson County AG News mailed to area producers and soon to be available on the Internet.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

Cash receipts for major farm commodities sold by Jefferson total over 11 million dollars. Locally grown produce, straw, and hay add an additional undetermined amount to the economy of Jefferson County. Maximizing farm family income by helping producers with production and marketing information will help farms remain competitive.

Measurable Objectives

1. Increase soil testing in Jefferson County by 20%
2. Handle 100 requests for information and consultations
3. Eight-five per cent of those responding to a newsletter evaluation will report that the Jefferson County AG News helps them be more efficient producers.

Indicators

1. Number of soil tests processed.
2. Number of requests for information
3. Results of AG Newsletter evaluation

Baseline Data

Two hundred and sixty soil tests were processed in Jefferson County last year. The AG News has not been evaluated.

3. Family Resiliency

University Outreach and Extension will provide educational programs that address issues relating to personal health and wellness for all citizens of all ages. Focus areas address issues promoting physical, mental, emotional, and social health.

1. 4-H Youth Development

University Outreach & Extension in Jefferson County provides a number of opportunities for the youth of the county to gain the skills and abilities necessary to be competent, caring and healthy members of their families and community. Programming for youth is comprehensive and is generally categorized as either simple, complex or collaborative youth development. The first two, complex and simple, will be reported in this section (Building Strong Families), while the third category, collaborative, will be reported in the final section (Creating Vibrant Communities).

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

Based on research involving more than 500,000 youth in more than 600 communities across the country, the Search Institute has created a model that identifies 40 building blocks, or developmental assets, that all youth need to succeed. Search Institute data show, however, that the average adolescent surveyed has fewer than half of the 40 assets defined. Recent research has also shown that the more assets young people experience, the less likely they are to engage in a wide range of risky behaviors (i.e. using alcohol or other drugs; having early, unprotected sex; etc.). 4-H Youth Development programs provide an opportunity for young people to experience many of the identified assets.

1. Provide complex youth development opportunities by involving Jefferson County youth in 4-H clubs, projects, camp, and various state and national 4-H learning experiences.

Measurable Objectives

1. The number of Jefferson County youth participating in 4-H clubs will increase by 10%
2. At least 50% of Jefferson county youth, that participate in 4-H clubs, will develop at least one leadership skill in one or more of the following areas: understanding self, communication, getting along with others, learning to learn, making decisions, managing and working with groups
3. At least 50% of Jefferson County youth, that participate in 4-H clubs, will report gaining at least one developmental assets in each of the internal and external asset type
4. 50% of the 4-H clubs in Jefferson County will report participating in at least one community service project during each program year

Indicators

1. The National 4-H Impact Assessment project is currently collecting data from nearly 10,000 young people. The study is based on the eight critical elements needed by all youth. Missouri 4-H faculty will be trained, and have the opportunity to replicate this research study in their own county during the 1999-2000 program year. The study can be repeated periodically for indicators of change.
2. County enrollment data (as reported by the Blue Ribbon Enrollment program) will be used to report number of youth enrolled in 4-H clubs, type of project taken and enrollment in life skills programs.
3. Community service logs will be kept by 4-H clubs to show youth and adult involvement in leadership, character education, citizenship and youth-adult relationships

Baseline Data

During the 1998-1999 program year there are 9 4-H clubs, 110 club members and three clubs reported participating in community service projects during the last program year.

2. Provide simple youth development opportunities

Measurable Objectives

1. The number of Jefferson County youth receiving simple youth development programming will increase by 15%.
2. The number of schools requesting information regarding University Outreach and Extension school enrichment programs will increase 10%.
3. The number of classrooms implementing University Outreach and Extension school enrichment materials will increase by 10%.
4. Participants will adopt and/or practice new techniques learned through school enrichment activities.

Indicators

1. Blue Ribbon enrollment data will be used to determine number of youth receiving programming and number of classrooms implementing programs.
2. Telephone logs will be used to determine number of requests for information.
3. Follow-up evaluations will be completed by participants and facilitators.

Baseline Data

During the 1997-98 program year, approximately 15,000 students in Jefferson County receiving some type of University Outreach and Extension sponsored program. Over 400 classrooms units of these activities were utilized and local facilitators completed evaluation instruments for each program. Seven new schools/classrooms requested information pertaining to University Outreach and Extension school enrichment programs.

3. Family Nutrition Education Program (FNEP) – Jefferson county data show a growing number of teen mothers and poverty level residents in Jefferson County. FNEP addresses the needs of these residents through nutrition programming teaching, demonstration, fairs, and agency collaboration.

FNEP is a federally funded grant matched program. The in-kind match is received from local and state organizations. The program is designed to provide nutritional information to limited resources audiences in Jefferson County. The curricula are planned to reach school age youth, senior citizens and pregnant teens.

Measurable Objectives

1. 3,000 youth will participate in FNEP
2. 100 pregnant and lactating teens will participate in Great Beginnings
3. 50 senior citizens will participate in the Senior Series

Indicators

1. Number of students showing increased knowledge through program evaluation
2. Number of students in school daily attendance
3. Number of students visiting the school nurses' offices

4. Childcare Provider Education – Sixty-seven per cent of those living in Jefferson County are employed out side of the county. Therefore, the need for childcare is high. This effort will consist of workshops related to various aspects of child development, administration, and other areas of concern in the child care setting.

Relation to the Jefferson County Program Cluster –The quality of care provided by the caregivers, along with specialized training and education, contribute to the child’s ability to succeed in school. Training can enhance the positive role that caregivers can play in the child’s life.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 25 home and center-based childcare providers will report increased knowledge from before to after the training programs.
2. 20 home and center based childcare providers will adopt one or more recommended practices presenting in the training programs.

Indicators:

1. Total number of providers who attended the programs.
2. Total numbers of providers who indicate increase knowledge areas taught in the program.
3. Total number of providers who adopt one or more skills or practices recommended in the program.

Baseline Data: Approximately 8 percent of the population of Jefferson County are under five years of age. Over 3,000 families had females as head of the household. Childcare providers often times must travel outside Jefferson County to receive the necessary twelve hours of continuing education as required by the state of Missouri for licensing.

5. Educational Program for Parents and their Children – Parent education programs will be offered in conjunction with area schools and other agencies. The programs will focus on identifying ways that parents can improve communication and other parenting skills. Parenting education will include education for parents with children 2-12 and 12-18.

Relation to the Jefferson County Program Cluster – Since many parents work outside the county, successfully raising children is a real challenge. Also, nearly six per cent of the households had single parents. Parenting education can help working parents to cope with the stresses of a job, a commute to work, and the responsibilities of raising a family.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Thirty patents will adopt one or more new parenting practices as a result of attending workshops.
2. 5 sites in the county will offer a parenting workshop.

Indicators:

1. Total number of parents who attend parenting workshops.
2. Total number of parents who indicate that they have adopted new practices presented in the workshops.
3. Total number of call to the extension center requesting parenting information.
4. Total number of sites where the parenting program is being offered.

Baseline Data: In Jefferson County, 30% of the population is under 18 years of age. In 1996 there were 508 births to mothers without a high school education and 396 births to teenage mothers. Twenty nine per cent of all births in Jefferson County occurred out of wedlock.

6. Educational Programs for Successfully Aging – Programs will address various issues and concerns related to the aging process. Topics covering the successful aging process will be presented in workshops, newsletters and other ways to disseminate information from the Center on Aging Without Walls website.

Relationship to the Jefferson County Program Cluster – Change in Jefferson County affects the aged as well as those younger. Helping the aged cope with a growing Jefferson County is an important challenge for University Extension.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 40 participants will enroll in a program.
2. 30 participants will report increase knowledge on successful aging.
3. 30 participants will adopt one or more recommendations offered in the workshop.

Indicators:

1. Number of participants attending successful aging programs
2. Number of participants that implement one or more of the recommendations offered through successful aging programming.
3. Number of requests for information from University Outreach and Extension.

Baseline Data:

Approximately 8 per cent of the population in Jefferson County are over 65 years old. The median age is 30.7 years, which is younger than the average for the St. Louis region. Because of the relative youth of the county population, the aged is often a forgotten minority in the county.

Creating Vibrant Communities

Jefferson County is a place to live and/or work for close to 200,000 people. Our communities range from brand new subdivisions in unincorporated areas of the county to old settlements with historic roots stretching back to the early 19^th century. Jefferson County residents are proud of their heritage and look forward to a vibrant future for their communities.

The role of communities in building a better lifestyle for Jefferson County residents is extremely important. Jefferson County citizens share responsibility to develop communities that are able to thrive at the local, regional and global levels. Creating a vibrant community is everyone's job. According to the Heartland Center for Leadership Development, there are twenty characteristics of a vibrant community. These are the characteristics to which Jefferson County aspires.

shows evidence of community pride,
places an emphasis on quality in business and community life,
invests in the future,
encourages a participatory approach to community decision-making,
develops a cooperative community spirit,
works from a realistic appraisal of future opportunities,
develops an awareness of its competitive positioning,
knows the physical environment,
supports an active economic development program,
transitions power to a younger generation of leaders, deliberately,
accepts women in leadership roles,
believes in and supports education,
uses a problem solving approach to health care,
maintains a strong multi-generation family orientation - valuing the roles of all ages in all aspects of community life,
values a strong presence of traditional institutions that are integral to community life,
gives attention to a sound and well-maintained infrastructure,
spends fiscal resources carefully,
uses information resources in a sophisticated manner,
seeks help from outside sources when necessary,
and finally, a vibrant community knows, with conviction, that in the long run, you have to do it yourself.

A. Organizational Development & Support

2.   Building Civic Resiliency

University Outreach and Extension will help communities, local governments, and formal or informal citizen groups in dealing with issues, problems and opportunities affecting them.

1. Leadership Development: University Outreach and Extension provides or facilitates educational opportunities for leaders of all ages. These opportunities may be formal or informal educational programs, workshops, or meetings.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

As Jefferson County changes, strong leaders both now and in the future will be needed to help guide the county. Good leadership starts with a common understanding of the issues, problems, or opportunities that face the county and culminates with the community sharing responsibility for the future.

Objectives

1. Facilitate educational opportunities for leaders of all ages.
2. Increase the number of informed community leaders involved in local and regional policy issues.
3. Provide opportunities for citizens to engage in community governance through public deliberation.

Activities

1. In each program year, University Outreach and Extension will support the Experience Jefferson County leadership program.
2. In each program year, University Outreach and Extension will offer leadership skills development opportunities to citizens of all ages.
3. University Outreach and Extension will work to provide leadership opportunities for youth
4. University Outreach and Extension will provide volunteer training opportunities to citizens of all ages

Indicators

Participants in leadership educational programs will receive a pre-program survey of issue knowledge and involvement. This survey will serve as baseline data. A follow-up survey with participants will be used to determine how the community and participants benefited from the educational programs. Indicators or benchmarks of progress include:

1. Participant satisfaction with programs and instruction.
2. Community based initiatives or organizational projects supported or strengthened by participants in programs.

Baseline Data:

1. The Experience Jefferson County program 1998 class had 22 graduates.
2. During the previous work plan, University Outreach and Extension offered leadership training to youth and adults through several leadership programs emphasizing personal and community leadership.

2. Community Cooperation: University Outreach and Extension will work with elected officials, county institutions, organizations, and residents to foster inter-organizational communication and countywide cooperation. Assistance may range from building coalitions to address community issues, facilitating networks that strengthen social capital to mobilizing internal or external resources to address a specific community need.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

A key element to the success of communities is the ability to take advantage of the resources available. Assets within Jefferson County and information and skills outside of the county all need to be brought into play as citizens seek to find their place in the future. As a provider of un-baised research-based information, University Outreach and Extension is uniquely positioned to assist elected officials, county institutions, organizations and residents across Jefferson County with this task.

Objectives

1. Foster inter-organizational communication.
2. Build or support coalitions to address critical community issues.
3. Facilitate networks of common community interests.

Activities

1. University Outreach and Extension will participate in at least one organization per community per year to facilitate inter-organizational communication at the county level.
2. University Outreach and Extension will work with at least two community organizations per year to help them gain new skills in building community networks and coalitions.

Indicators:

1. Increase in the use and content of the Jefferson Online Information Network for community based information sharing.
2. Change in the number of community organizations who report organizational communication as a barrier to their work.
3. Increase in projects being undertaken by existing or newly formed community coalitions with whom UO/E works.

Baseline Data

1. At the county and municipal level, several groups meet monthly to share information on programs and services. Current communication between groups appears sporadic.
2. Currently less than 30 organizations have information on JOIN-N.
3. Over 30 community-based organizations operate within Jefferson County. In 1999, two non-profit workshops were held covering working with volunteers and fundraising.

Maintaining a Healthy Environment

Rapid growth requires that special consideration be given to infrastructure and environmental issues. Protection of natural resources such as soil and water must be promoted by planned growth, effective treatment of waste, and protection of drinking water. In addition, changes in technological infrastructure provide opportunities for positive and negative changes in the quality of life of Jefferson County residents. Informed infrastructure decision making fosters wise use of all types of Jefferson County resources.

1. Strengthening Infrastructure Decisions

1. Infrastructure Policy: University Outreach and Extension will assist organizations that are addressing infrastructure issues through formal and informal educational assistance and by sharing new research information with policy makers.

Relation to Jefferson County Program Cluster

Citizens in Jefferson County understand the importance of infrastructure in creating a vibrant community and in maintaining a healthy environment. Adequate provision of traditional infrastructures - such as streets, water systems, and sewage treatment facilities is an important issue in Jefferson County. Additionally, newer infrastructure forms -- mainly technological infrastructure -- are growing increasingly critical as Jefferson County competes in the global village. University Outreach and Extension brings resources to assist communities in these areas.

Objectives

1. Policy makers and others addressing infrastructure issues will receive timely research-based information to make appropriate infrastructure decisions.

Activities:

1. University Outreach and Extension will participate in countywide efforts to adopt new technology infrastructures.
2. University Outreach and Extension will provide training on infrastructure issues to at least two different community groups per year.
3. University Outreach and Extension will participate in countywide efforts to address infrastructure issues.

Indicators

1. Number of educational sessions to policy makers and infrastructure groups increases.
2. Groups addressing infrastructure issues will request information and participation by UO/E in their work.

Baseline Data

1. Several groups in Jefferson County are working to address both traditional and technological infrastructure issues. JOIN-N, the Jefferson Online Information Network, and Small Flows are two examples. University Outreach and Extension has been working with these groups since their inception.
2. Briefing sessions on on-site septic systems, workplace safety, and technology changes have been held in the past two years.

2. On-site Septic Installer’s Training: University Outreach and Extension will assist the Jefferson County Building Department and on-site septic installers by coordinating training, tracking the number of CEU’s earned by each installer’s, and by supporting the local chapter of the Small Flows Organization.

Relation to the Jefferson County Program Cluster

Hilly terrain and poor soil conditions contribute to a high percentage of failing on-site septic systems. The Jefferson County Building Commission has made Jefferson County the first county in Missouri to require on-site septic installers to acquire continuing education units to renew their operator licenses. These licensing requirements will ensure quality installations of on-site septic systems. University Outreach and Extension will help ensure a healthy environment by providing resources to assist the certification process.

Measurable Objectives

1. Enrollment of over 100 installers in the Small Flows Organization
2. Over 80 installers will receive the necessary training credits to maintain their licenses
3. At least 6 training sessions will be held in Jefferson County on proper installation techniques, new systems, and safety

Indicators

1. Number of installers enrolled in the Eastern Missouri Small Flows
2. Number of installers completing training requirements
3. Number of locally held training sessions

Baseline Data

Currently 50 installers are members of the Eastern Missouri Small Flows. Less that 20 have completed 12 hours of training necessary for license renewal. Two training sessions were held locally last year.

2. Environmental Assistance to Individuals

University Outreach and Extension will provide educational programming and technical assistance to residents and organizations that have environmental concerns.

1. Home*A*Syst Program –. The Home*A*Syst program helps homeowners assess their personal contribution to managing environmental issues. The program addresses stormwater runoff, drinking water well management, effectiveness of septic systems, storage and disposal of hazardous household products, and care of lawn and landscape around the home.

Relation to the Jefferson County Program Cluster preserving water quality and protecting the environment is more than just monitoring agriculture and industry. Preservation starts with the homeowner. Offering the Home*A*Syst program to Jefferson County homeowners will enable each person to contribute toward a healthy environment.

Measurable Objectives

1. Fifty people will use the Home*A*Syst program to find ways around the home to protect the environment
2. Forty of the participants will adopt practices to reduce pollution around their home
3. Thirty homeowners will test their drinking water for contaminants

Indicators

1. Number of homeowners attending the program.
2. Number of homeowners adopting practices, determined by survey results.

Baseline Data

This is a new program for Jefferson County.

Introduction

The Lincoln County University Outreach and Extension Center is the first point of contact for many citizens to the four campuses of the University of Missouri System and Lincoln University. University Outreach with support from federal, state and local governments provides citizens with access to research based resources for local programs to address concerns and needs of the people of Lincoln County. The Lincoln County Extension Council, as established by state statute, is a partner with University Outreach and Extension and USDA-CSREES in the development, implementation and evaluation of extension educational programs.

Rationale for the Program Plan

The county program plan process began with two deliberative group sessions held in Silex and Troy, involving approximately 40 citizens to identify areas of concern to the residents of Lincoln County. Priorities that emerged from the deliberative group sessions along with analysis of county demographic data, and an assessment of current extension programs offered by regional extension staff, provided the basis for the county program plan.

Lincoln county citizens envision an economy based on developing local business and a strong agricultural base. Future development of the county will be done in an environmentally friendly manner through proper land use and resource planning. Extension programs for Lincoln county are designed to help local agricultural producers, local businesses and individuals to be economically competitive, provide assistance for a supportive environment for family and youth development and maintain a clean environment.

Lincoln County continues to be influenced by urban sprawl from the St. Louis metro area. The county’s population in 1997 was 35781, up from 28892 in 1990. Population growth is strong in the unincorporated areas of the county with 2/3 of the population living in unincorporated areas.

The economic base of Lincoln County consists of an annual payroll of $104,000,000 and annual farm receipts of over $58,000,000. Of the 12,000 full and part time employees only approximately 5700 work in Lincoln County. The remainder commute to jobs in the St. Louis area.

Presently there are 929 farms in Lincoln County with an average of $62,865 in receipts. Livestock and row crop enterprises are equally important to the viability of Lincoln county farms. Primary livestock enterprises are beef and swine production, with corn, soybeans, and wheat being the primary rowcrops.

The county’s present population is made up of 30.3% of the population being less than 17 years old, resulting in a need for recreational and youth development programs. With over 62% of working women having a child under 6, resulting in a shortage of proper daycare and youth activities.

Lincoln County Program Priorities

Based on priorities determined by the participants at the deliberative group sessions, an analysis of the current demographics of the county and present extension programs, the Lincoln county extension council has determined eight program priority areas being: 1) land use and resource planning, 2) compatibility between traditional agriculture and county growth, 3) enhanced youth activities to develop character and responsibility, 4) recreational and educational opportunities for youth, 5) development of local business and traditional agricultural base, 6) watershed management, 7) adult continuing education, and 8) family stability and growth.

Program Theme #1. Land Use and Resource Planning. Planned growth is a major concern of Lincoln County residents. Communities, towns and the county will have the opportunity to bring about community betterment through leadership training and cooperation between local and county issues. Assistance will be provided to local and county officials on critical issues as planning and zoning, development of housing and community betterment.

1. Land Use and Resource Planning. Working with local government and citizen groups, regional extension staff will assist in the development of long-term land use planning for Lincoln County.

1. Make available information to local land use planners to assist them in making correct decisions for Lincoln county.
2. Work with local groups on planning and zoning issues.

Lincoln county is experiencing rapid population growth due to migration from the St. Louis area. With many of the surrounding counties having some form of planning and zoning, Lincoln County is potentially exposed to undesirable growth and development. Long term growth that maintains the environment and desired standard of living will indicate that the objectives have had a positive impact.

Program Theme #2. Compatability between Traditional Agriculture and County Growth. Lincoln county is experiencing rapid population growth in a traditionally strong agricultural county. The population in 1997 was 35781 with many of the new residents moving from urban areas with little understanding of livestock and crop production. As a result, the potential exists for negative rural/urban interaction. Efforts will be made to develop a cooperative relationship between the two groups.

1. Maintaining Production Agriculture in Population Growth Areas. Through assistance from extension staff, agricultural producers and new county residents will become more aware of each group’s needs.

Measurable Objectives.

1. Assistance will be given to 100 producers of livestock and crop producers on management practices that will promote practices compatible with the demographics of the county.
2. Through articles and newsletters, county residents will be kept informed about production agriculture of Lincoln County.
3. Assistance will be given to county residents who have concerns about production practices near their homes.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Lincoln County has over 900 farms that primarily depend on livestock and rowcrop enterprises for their primary income. In addition to this there is a steady increase in population of people moving from more urban areas. The population of the county in 1997 was 35781, up from 28892 in 1990. This increase in population can cause conflict with traditional agricultural practices.

Program Theme #3. Enhanced Youth Activities to Develop Character and Leadership. Youth development programs promote positive physical, social, cognitive and emotional growth for young people and reduce the likelihood of high-risk behavior. Lincoln County has a strong traditional 4-H program.

1. Leadership Development. Leadership development includes programs and events that prepare youth to carry out specific responsibilities. On-going programs and events to enhance leadership development for 4-H members such as 4-H camp, clover kids day camp, judging and achievement day will be continued.

Measurable Objectives:

1. By 2003, the number of young people involved in a 4-H club will increase by 25%.
2. By 2003, one new 4-H club will be started in an area currently not being served in the county.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Currently there are 372 4-H members enrolled in 10 4-H clubs.

2. School Enrichment. School enrichment includes programs that enable youth to acquire knowledge in a specific subject area.

Measurable Objectives:

1. By 2003, the number of youth participating in a school enrichment program will increase by 25%.
2. By 2003, 25% of youth will have participated in a program related to job skills.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Currently there are 1,000 students participating in school enrichment programs, such as the embryology and character counts programs.

Program Theme #4. Recreational and Educational Opportunities for Youth. The county’s present population is made up of 30.3% of the population being less than 17 years old, resulting in a need for recreational and youth development programs. Programs will be provided by the Lincoln County Extension Center with recreational and educational opportunities emphasized.

2. Teen Leadership Development. Teen leadership development activities will promote leadership and character, while provide recreational activities.

Measurable Objectives

1. By 2003, the number of teen leaders will increase by 25%.
2. Fifty children will attend a safety program.
3. Training for ten youth will be conducted on proper baby sitting and adult care practices.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Currently there are 20 teens participating in the county teen leaders program. Members are involved in such activities as working with younger 4-H members at officer training and visiting the elderly. There is also large numbers of children receiving day care in individual homes. Records will be kept on number of children effected by trainings.

Program Theme #5. Development of Local Business and Traditional Agricultural Base. Lincoln County traditionally has had an economy based on small local businesses and commodity production. Concerns include the effects that large chain businesses have on locally owned small businesses and the long-term viability of traditional business areas. Efforts will be made to provide educational programming and workshops to provide local businesses the information needed on how to start and manage a small business. Also extension personnel will continue to host activities related to agricultural sustainability and viability. The emphasis will be on new technologies, expanded marketing opportunities and resource management.

1. Ag Profitability Programs. Agricultural profitability programs, such as the annual soils and crops conference, bring new practices and management strategies to Lincoln county producers in order to maximize profits.

Measurable Objectives:

1. The annual soils and crops conference will teach new practices and management strategies to 50 Lincoln county crop producers.
2. Ten Lincoln county crop and livestock producers will learn new marketing strategies through the use of a marketing club.
3. Twenty-five producers, through consultations will learn profitable production practices.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

The soils and crops conference has a 75-year history of attracting quality topics and local producers. Marketing club success will be measured by the success of their marketing strategies. Follow-ups of consultations will indicate effectiveness.

2. Value Added Agricultural Programs. Agricultural profitability can be enhanced through adding value to products or niche marketing. The use of farmer’s markets is one method of increasing small farm profits

Measurable Objectives:

1. Assistance will be given to area farmers’ markets to increase use and profits.
2. Assistance will be given to farmers’ markets groups to obtain grants to enhance the markets.
3. Assistance will be given to 25 producers through consultations seeking information on alternative crops and niche marketing

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Present and future use of farmers’ markets will be used to determine effectiveness. Also success of obtaining grants to develop markets will be assessed.

3. Precision Farming. Precision farming practices offer the opportunity for crop producers to manage crop inputs in the most efficient manner for maximum profitability in an environmentally sound manner.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Conduct meetings in East Central and Northeast Missouri to reach 100 crop producers on precision farming practices.
2. Develop field demonstrations of variable rate fertilizer application on 10 producer fields.
3. Research will be done to determine the practicality of precision farming practices.
4. Grants will be obtained to assist in demonstrations and research projects.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Present and future adoption of precision farming practices by crop producers and input suppliers will be monitored for adaptation. Financial analysis will be conducted to determine profitability.

4. Livestock Production. Lincoln county livestock producers receive over $30,000,000 in receipts each year. This is made up of beef, swine, dairy, sheep and other livestock.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Thirty county farmers will learn how to properly manage their forage base and their livestock to optimize forage utilization through Management Intensive Practices.
2. Thirty livestock producers will participate in educational programs to become aware of nutritional and management practices to increase profitability.
3. Twelve purebred livestock producers will learn how to evaluate their seedstock base on genetic merit of their animals and make selection decisions based on the knowledge acquired.
4. Ten producers per year will learn about proper medication techniques for swine through the pork quality assurance program.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Evaluation of producers participating in nutritional and genetic programs will be conducted to determine the effectiveness of programs.

5. Small Business Development. Programs to maintain and develop local small businesses to provide employment opportunities will be conducted.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Assistance will be provided to businesses to develop financial requirements to obtain loans or backing.
2. Small businesses will be provided with counseling on a variety of needs. Consulting and programs will address market plans, advertising, financial records, business organization, etc.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Locally based businesses and jobs will be an indicator of local business development. Of the 12,000 full and part time employees only approximately 5700 work in Lincoln County. The remainder commute to jobs in the St. Louis area.

Program Theme #6. Watershed Management. In a county growing as rapidly as Lincoln, the potential for environmental degradation and loss of pristine rural setting is high. Agricultural producers must be aware of how they handle livestock waste, apply pesticides, and how to minimize soil erosion to reduce the risk of non-point source pollution. In the same context, homeowners must find ways to deal with septic/sewage systems, solid waste and household hazardous waste.

1. Environmental Stewardship. With much of Lincoln County being in the Cuivre River watershed and all into the Mississippi, there is a potential of water pollution from agricultural practices. Producers will learn production practices that are environmentally sound.

1. Fifty producers will take advantage of soil sampling strategies to make proper fertilizer application to crop fields.
2. Fifty producers will learn about proper application of herbicides through pesticide recertification programs.
3. Fifty producers will continue to develop reduced and no-till cropping programs.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Records will determine the number of producers making use of soil sampling services and pesticide licensing. Baseline data of water quality of the Cuivre River has been collected and will be compared to future data.

2. Environmental Assessment Programs. With a rapid increase in population, existing farmsteads are being sold into small acreage’s. Many of these may have environmentally sensitive areas that need to be addressed. Realtors need to be made aware of how to handle these situations.

Measurable Objectives

1. Ten realtors will participate in an environmental assessment program.
2. Assistance will be provided to people needing information on solid waste disposal.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

Records of attendance to environmental assessment programs will be kept for continuing education units.

3. On-Site Septic Systems Program. With the rapid population growth, much of the new home construction relies on on-site septic systems. Proper design and operation is needed to protect the environment.

Measurable Objectives

1. Ten homeowners will learn how their on-site systems operate and steps they can utilize to properly maintain the systems.
2. Percolation certification courses will be offered in the region.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

With 2/3 of the county population living in unincorporated areas, homes are dependent on on-site septic systems. Records will be kept on information requested by homeowners and people attending percolation certification classes.

Program Theme #7. Adult Continuing Education. Lincoln county residents need to have continuing education of such topics as family development, financial issues and college credit correspondence coureses.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Thirty families will become aware of how to effectively balance work and family responsibilities through newsletters, workshops and additional educational programs.
2. Ten family members will receive educational information on issues related to financial options, legal options and local resources.
3. One hundred family members will receive educational information on parenting through the "Tot Times", "SWCD Agriculture Tomorrow" and FCE Newsletter.
4. Correspondence courses will be offered for college credit.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

FCE clubs and enrollment in addition to mail list of newsletters will be kept.

Program Theme #8. Family Stability and Growth. With rapid population growth and a large number of families that have both spouses working and many commuting to the St. Louis area for work, there is concern about the strength of the family unit. Also with a large portion of the population that is young there is a need for family financial management that will address goal setting, financial resource management, finding affordable housing and setting savings goals. With an aging population there is developing needs for elder care options.

1. Life Skills Development. Development of life skills will include training that will allow individuals to advance in specified areas.

2. Elder Care. With many families experiencing a family member needing some type of care, elder care options are becoming necessary.

Measurable Objectives:

1. By 2003, the number of youth participating in life skills training will increase by 25%.
2. Ten people will attend workshops on elder care options.

Baseline Data and Indicators:

Currently 40 youth are participating in life skills training such as new family orientation, report form clinic, demonstration workshop and judging workshop.

Summation: In conclusion, this plan of work for Lincoln county is a compilation of the efforts of a great deal of people. Input has been gained from county residents, county officials, the Lincoln County Extension Council, the University of Missouri’s Office of Social and Economic Development Association (OSEDA) and University Outreach and Extension staff serving Lincoln county. This process has been long and time consuming, but we believe that this effort has been well worth the time and consideration it took to achieve the objective of evolving a University Outreach and Extension that will be responsive to the needs of the people of Lincoln county.

Roadsides free of litter, planning and zoning for small communities, runoff, and self-supporting recycling center for the county were identified in the deliberative group session. Agricultural producers must be aware of how they handle livestock waste to minimize odors, apply pesticides, and how to minimize soil erosion to reduce the risk of non-point source pollution. In the same context, homeowners must find ways to deal with septic/sewage systems, solid waste and household hazardous waste.

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Introduction

The St. Charles County University Outreach and Extension Center is literally an "extension" to the four campuses of the University of Missouri system and Lincoln University. University Outreach and Extension maintains a unique partnership among federal, state, county, and local governments and provides access to a wealth of information and educational opportunities to enrich the lives of the citizens of Missouri. The St. Charles County Extension Council, as established by state statute, is a partner with University Outreach and Extension and the United States Department of Agriculture and is committed to bringing high quality educational opportunities to the citizens of St. Charles county.

Rationale for this Plan

The process for planning educational programs for the four next years included input from town meetings, advisory groups, associations, agencies, and individuals. The concerns and priorities emerging from that process, along with an assessment of the current programs being offered in the county provided the basis for this initial draft. The plan was jointly developed and written by the county extension council and extension faculty.

St. Charles County is the fastest growing county in the state, increasing from a population of 144,000 in 1980, to a population of 213,000 in 1990, to an estimated population of 274,000 in 1998. Similar growth is predicted by county officials over the next 20 or more years. Growth is reflected by a total of 3,052 new residential units built in St. Charles County in 1997 at an estimated value of $317 million. Growth continued in 1998 with 3,659 new residential units at an estimated value of $371 million. Concerns over the land use and the impact of this rapid growth were expressed during the town meetings held as part of this current planning process.

Citizens involved in the planning process expressed concerns about building strong character in youth. Recommendations for youth development were given that include building family support, establishing boundaries, providing opportunities for structured activities, developing a commitment to education, establishing positive values, and developing social competencies. These guidelines are seen as important and valuable goals to include in this plan.

Based on priorities expressed by all those involved in the development of this plan, the following program themes have been chosen: family strengths, natural resources, agricultural profitability, business and industry, consumer horticulture, and community development

St. Charles County Program Priorities

Based on a review of current educational programs and input from citizen meetings, the faculty and council members of the University of Missouri Outreach and Extension of St. Charles County Extension Council have chosen to focus time and resources on seven major themes: family strengths, business and industry, agricultural profitability, natural resources, community development, and consumer horticulture.

Program Theme #1. Family Strengths

St. Charles County will have accessible, affordable, educational opportunities that promote strong families. This includes effective communication, stress management, intergenerational activities, parenting skills, youth activities, financial management, and nutrition. These opportunities will include both formal and informal experiences to meet the needs of a diverse population.

1. Child Care Provider Education

A significant number of children in the county are cared for during the day in home and center-based child care programs. The quality of care provided and the degree to which the experience contributes to children’s ability to succeed in school is related to care-givers’ specialized training and education. Provider training opportunities will be offered for child care practitioners from classroom to administrative staff.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Home and center-based practitioners will report increased knowledge of effective practices from before the program to after the program.
2. Home and center-based practitioners will report adoption of one or more recommended practices learned from the program.

Baseline Data:

Percentage of need for child care met by known spaces:

1. Under age 3 23% of need met
2. Age 3-664% of need met

This indicates a need for care provider education and an opportunity to conduct a needs assessment of other specialized training that is needed by this target audience.

Indicators:

• Total number of providers who attended the programs.
• Total number of providers who indicate increased knowledge of administrative/classroom strategies and specialized areas taught in the program.
• Total number of providers who adopt one or more practices recommended in the programs.
• Percent increase in provider calls to University Extension in the county for additional information or other assistance in the management and administration of their business, as well as the specialized areas in which training was conducted.
• Percent of providers participating in the program who indicate a need for additional education in specialized areas.

2. Parent Education Programs:

Educational opportunities will be available for families to learn skills that will enhance their parent-child relationships. Parenting programs will be offered on a wide range of topics for diverse audiences. These will include general parenting programs as well as programs for specific audiences. Parent education workshops will be held in the county under the joint sponsorship of University Outreach & Extension, Social Services, Youth In Need, child care centers and a variety of other community agencies and organizations.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Parents will seek parenting information through University Outreach and Extension workshops, news letters, publications and other programs.
2. Parents will indicate an increase in parenting knowledge and/or skills as a result of University Outreach and Extension parent education programming.
3. Parents will adopt one or more new parenting practices as a result of University Outreach and Extension parent programming.
4. Parents will become aware of educational resources available through University Outreach and Extension at annual parenting fairs in the county.

Baseline Data:

Percent of households with children under age 18

1. 16% Under age 3
2. 18% Age 3-5
3. 35% Age 6-11
4. 15% Age 12-14
5. 13% Age 15-17
6. 88% of children live with both parents
7. 12% of children live in single parent households

Indicators:

• Total number of parents who attend parenting workshops and parenting fairs, according to registration information.
• Total number of parents who indicate they adopted new practices as a result of participating in parenting workshops. Information will be gathered by a follow-up survey sent 2-4 months after program completion.

3. Volunteer Leader Development

Volunteer leaders play a key role in any 4-H program. St. Charles County has over 200 volunteers working with the 4-H club program and at least another 100 volunteers in indirect roles. In a recent statewide survey of volunteer 4-H leaders and in daily conversations with our volunteer 4-H leaders in St. Charles County, training is one of the most important needs expressed by these leaders. Therefore, 4-H youth staff will:

Provide training for volunteer leaders, through a variety of delivery methods, to help these leaders enhance the leadership and life skills of the young people they work with.

Measurable Objectives:

1. The number of 4-H volunteers that attend leader training will increase by 10% each year.
2. 50% of the leaders attending training will learn at least two new ways to increase the educational content of 4-H club meetings.
3. 80% of the leaders attending will learn at least one youth development principal that they can use in their work with youth.
4. 4-H Youth Staff will partner and collaborate with other youth serving agencies and coalitions to provide opportunities for training of adult volunteers.

Baseline Data:

Currently about 20% of St. Charles County 4-H volunteer leaders attend formal and informal leader training. Only about 25% of 4-H clubs are using 4-H curriculum to enhance their meetings.

Indicators:

• Number of volunteer leaders that attend training.
• Number of 4-H clubs that use one or more 4-H educational programs at their meetings.
• Number of 4-H leaders that adopt youth development principals when working with youth.

4. Youth Development

Based on research involving more than 250,000 youth in grades 6 to 12, the Search Institute has created a model which identifies 40 building blocks, or developmental assets, that all children and adolescents need to grow up healthy, competent, and caring. 4-H youth development programs help young people to experience many of these assets. The recent deliberative group sessions indicated a need for youth character development, after school programs, and coalitions among youth programs. Programs offered to meet these needs will also help young people achieve a number of the developmental assets listed by the Search Institute. The research shows that the more assets young people experience, the less likely they are to engage in a wide range of risky behaviors. Therefore, the 4-H youth staff in St. Charles County will:

1. Provide comprehensive youth development opportunities by involving St. Charles County youth in 4-H clubs, projects, camp, and various state and national 4-H learning experiences.

Measurable Objectives:

1. The number of St. Charles County youth participating in 4-H clubs will increase by 10%.
2. 50% of St. Charles County youth, that participate in 4-H programs, will develop at least one leadership skill in one or more of the following areas: understanding self, communication, getting along with others, learning to learn, making decisions, managing and working with groups.
3. 50% of St. Charles County youth, that participate in 4-H youth programs, will acquire at least one of the Search Institutes developmental assets in each of the asset types of support, boundaries, structured time use, educational commitment, positive values, and social competencies.
4. 75% of the 4-H clubs in St. Charles County will perform at least one community service project during each year of the plan of work.
5. 4-H Youth Staff will partner and collaborate with other youth serving agencies and coalitions such as Gang Prevention Task Force, Youth Link, Youth Advisory Board, etc., regarding county wide youth development issues.

Baseline Data:

Participation in 4-H clubs in St. Charles County has been fairly level over the last four years. There is a need to see this level rise. There is a need to pay closer attention to what the research is telling us about youth development and make sure that all of our 4-H programs include these components. Involvement by 4-H youth staff with other yourth serving agencies has been limited.

2. Provide youth development opportunities to students in St. Charles County public and parochial schools through 4-H school enrichment programs.

Measurable Objectives:

1. The number of students participating in 4-H school enrichment programs will increase by 10%.
2. 90% of the students participating in 4-H school enrichment programs will achieve at least one of the four Show-Me Standards goals.

Baseline Data:

St. Charles County 4-H youth staff have reached a large number of student through 4-H school enrichment programs. It is important to strive to reach more students and expand the number and variety of school enrichment programs over the next four years.

Indicators:

• Teachers will evaluate each 4-H school enrichment program that they conduct with their students.
• Pre and post test scores showing an increase in knowledge of the students that participate in a 4-H school enrichment program.
• Number of students participating as reported in the 4-H Blue Ribbon program.

5. HO.M.E. (Home Ownership Made Easier)

H.O.M.E. is a program, which prepares first-time homebuyers to make the complicated decisions required in the home buying process. The program is jointly planned and implemented by University Outreach and Extension and several other federal, state and local agencies. The program will be taught to groups face-to-face and over interactive television.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 200 first-time homebuyers will determine the price home they can afford.
2. 150 participants will report adoption of one or more financial management practices recommended in the program.
3. 120 participants will purchase a home.

Indicators:

• Number of participants showing increased knowledge through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in home buying process through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process.
• Number of participants who purchase a home upon completion of the course through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process.

6. HomeWorks

This is a program which promotes successful homeownership through the development of home maintenance and financial management skills related to ownership of a home.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 80 homeowners will identify preventative home maintenance practices they can do to maintain their home.
2. 80 homeowners will identify financial management practices related to homeownership.

Indicators:

• Number of participants showing increased knowledge through HomeWorks evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in maintaining their home and managing the finances related to home ownership.
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the HomeWorks evaluation process.

7. Resource Management

A series of programs that help individuals and families improve their decision making abilities regarding financial and non-financial resources. The programs are done in coordination with community agencies, schools and local coalitions.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 200 participants will attend the programs
2. 150 participants will adopt resource/ financial management practices recommended in the program.
3. 100 participants will re-evaluate current financial situation and make needed adjustments

Indicators:

• Number of participants showing increased knowledge through program evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence and control over their resources and financial management practices through the program evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the program evaluation process.

8. Life-skills

Are programs that teach participants basic survival skills which promote self-sufficiency and enhance individuals abilities to participate in consumer markets.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 100 participants will attend the programs.
2. 80 participants will adopt basic money management practices.
3. 50 participants will develop budgets and/or establish or re-establish credit.

Indicators:

• Number of participants showing increased knowledge through program evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in money-management practices.
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the program evaluation process.

 9. Safe Food Handling

Once a food leaves the grocery store, the consumer becomes an important link in the food safety chain. Safely processed foods can become unsafe if mishandled in the home. USDA has identified key "control points" at which consumers in the home can help keep food safe: purchasing, storing, pre-preparation, cooking, serving, and handling leftovers. Similar control points exist for food handlers such as restaurant chefs, cooks in day care centers and schools and food handlers at community/church suppers and county fair booths. Taking appropriate action at these critical points can prevent foodborne illness. University Outreach and Extension in St. Charles County will help residents maintain a safe food supply through educational programs and resources that provide information, improve decision making and increase skills related to food buying, preparation and handling.

Objectives:

1. 200 individuals will participate in food safety programs in St. Charles County.
2. 85% of participants completing the program will demonstrate increased knowledge of basic food safety principles.
3. 75% of participants completing the program will be able to list four of the six USDA identified "control points" at which consumers in the home can help keep food safe.
4. 70% of participants completing the program will report learning specific skills that will improve their ability to handle foods safely.
5. 65% of participants will report that they intend to adopt recommended food safety practices.
6. 20% of participants completing a follow up survey will report they have adopted recommended food safety practices.

Baseline Data:

Foodborne illness in the United States is a major cause of economic burden, human suffering, and death. Each year, an estimated 6.5 to 33 million people become ill from microorganisms in food, and an estimated 9,000 of these individuals die. Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that about 2 to 3 percent of all foodborne illness cases lead to secondary long-term illnesses. Progress is being made toward meeting Healthy People 2000 targets for three of the four food safety objectives. However, there are several underlying forces that may make foodborne illness more of a problem in the years to come: a) an increase in at-risk people such as the elderly and those with compromised immune systems; b) Less attention in homes to safe food preparation; c) an increasing amount of food prepared away from the home creating new opportunities for mishandling; d) a diverse food service industry with high turn over of employees; and e) the continuing evolution of microorganisms often resulting in increased virulence and new modes of transmission.

Indicators:

• Records of the number of participants in food safety programs will be kept.
• Average pre- and post-test scores will show an increase in knowledge of basic food safety principles.
• Pre- and post-test results will indicate an increase in the number of participants who will be able to list four of the six USDA identified "control points" at which consumers in the home can help keep food safe.
• Average pre- and post-test scores will show an increase in the number of participants who report learning specific skills that will improve their ability to handle foods safely.
• Follow-up surveys will indicate the number of participants who have adopted recommended food safety practices.

9. Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Poor eating and exercise habits are known risk factors for a number of chronic health problems including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. The role of nutrition and physical activity in reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases has been well documented. Extension programs in St. Charles County can increase interest in and knowledge of basic physical fitness and nutrition principles and teach behavior change strategies that promote physical activity and good eating habits for people of all ages.

Objectives:

1. 200 individuals will participate in University Outreach and Extension programs related to developing and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.
2. 80% of participants completing the program will be able to list the benefits of healthy eating and physical fitness.
3. 85% of participants completing the program will demonstrate increased knowledge of basic nutrition and/or physical fitness principles.
4. 70% of participants completing the program will report learning specific skills that will improve their food choices and/or physical fitness.
5. 65% of participants will report that they intend to adopt recommended nutrition and/or physical fitness practices.

Baseline Data:

Both Healthy People 2010, and Healthy People 2000, have emphasized the importance of good nutrition and physical activity in the prevention of disease. These reports are based on scientific research and surveillance data. While some progress toward meeting the HP2000 objectives for nutrition and physical fitness has been made, only one—worksite wellness--has reached the target. According to recent survey data (1996 Center for Disease Control and Prevention), 33% of Missourians are obese, only 21% consume the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables daily, fewer than 18% exercise regularly, and over 30% engage in no physical activity. These figures indicate a need for continuing University Outreach and Extension’s emphasis on healthy eating and promotion of physical activity.

Indicators:

• Records of the number of participants in nutrition and physical fitness programs will be kept.
• Average pre- and post-test scores will show an increase in knowledge of basic nutrition and physical fitness principles.
• Pre- and post-test results will indicate an increase in the number of participants who will be able to list the benefits of healthy eating and physical fitness.
• Average pre- and post-test scores will show an increase in the number of participants who report learning specific skills that will improve their eating or activity habits.
• Follow-up surveys will indicate the number of participants who have adopted recommended healthy lifestyle practices.

Program Theme #2. Business and Industry

Successful businesses contribute heavily to the strength of the economy of the state. It is essential that educational programs be provided to these small businesses for continued economic growth. Eighty-seven percent of the establishments in St. Charles County are small businesses (less than 20 employees). St. Charles County also has a large group of home-based businesses, and that group is steadily rising.

1. Small Business

The business and industry program will be designed to help people start a small business or improve existing small businesses. These programs will be designed to promote small business growth and employment opportunities and will be provided through partnerships with SBDC and other agencies to meet the needs of a diverse population. Educational counseling as well as programs will include how to write a business plan, record keeping, financing, marketing, and taxes.

Measurable Objectives:

University Outreach & Extension will provide high quality, effective and responsive assistance to at least 10 businesses each year. 250 individuals will learn about a business plan, financing and record keeping from the "How to Start a Business" seminars. At least 80 individuals will learn how to write a business plan through individual counseling. 100 small businesspersons learn new business skills and gain knowledge from the Sunrise Seminar Series in cooperation with the local Chambers of Commerce. Five local business organizations will receive educational information through presentations at their regular meetings.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

"Request for Counseling" forms and client surveys will provide information on those that participate in our educational programs and individual counseling. Data will be gathered to provide information about new businesses.

• Number of business plans developed.
• Number of new business formations/ number of business licenses.
• Number of individuals choosing not to start a new business based on counseling and training information.
• Amount of clientele business loans secured. (new and expanding businesses)
• Number of existing businesses participating in programs.
• Taxes paid by new business start-ups.
• Number of new jobs created.
• Increase in sales by existing businesses.
• Increased use of business resources.

2. Home-based Business

One-third of small business in St. Peters alone is home-operated businesses. It is essential to the county that University Outreach & Extension provide educational opportunities to improve entrepreneurial and management skills to assist home-operated businesses. Programs will include a networking system, marketing, tax education, record keeping and introduce home-based business to technological opportunities available to them.

Measurable Objectives:

University Outreach and Extension will provide high quality, effective and responsive assistance to at least 20 businesses operated out of the home. 100 individuals will learn of the resources available to them through seminars, workshops and presentations to local organizations. Networking groups will be established for the purpose of home-operated businesses to discuss related problems and topics. 100 individuals will learn of networking opportunities and how to network. At least four business resources will participate in educational programming for home-based businesses through seminars and workshops. Five home-based businesses will be able to market on the Internet. Twenty retirees or dislocated workers will be given educational assistance on how to start a home-based business as a career opportunity or second income.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

• Number of participants who attend seminars and workshops.
• Number of participants who indicate increased knowledge through surveys and evaluations.
• Number of individuals who start a home-operated business.
• Increase in number of networking groups.
• Number of business plans developed.
• Number of city licenses.
• Amount of clientele business loans secured.
• Numbers of business resources participating in seminars and network groups.
• Number of home-operated businesses that join local Chambers of Commerce.

3. Workforce Preparation

University Outreach & Extension will provide educational and career assistance programs to enable all citizens be adequately prepared for and be competitive in the workplace. Programs will include Home-based business seminars and "How to Start a Business" program for dislocated workers and welfare-to-work persons. Provide management training for businesses that work with PIC (Private Industry Council) and other agencies that are helping hard to employ or transitional persons. A program will also be developed to educate and prepare youth for employment after school. Success of these programs will depend heavily on partnering with other agencies involved with the Welfare-to-Work program.

Measurable Objectives:

University Outreach & Extension will provide effective assistance to partners and non-profit agencies to educate and prepare individuals and families for the work force. "Starting a Business" program will be taught to at least 50 hard- to- employ people a year. Partner with at least 3 agencies to provide information on career choices, resume writing, job interviewing and technical skills to those in welfare-to-work programs. Provide management training to 10 small businesses that hire hard-to-employ and transitional workers. Presentations to at least 400 youth at Education Seminars and Career Fairs.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

• Number of persons attending seminars and workshops.
• Number of persons finding employment.
• Number of persons who start a new business.
• Number of new clientele business loans secured.
• Number of persons returning to school
• Change in poverty level in county.
• Change in unemployment numbers.
• Number of youth that find employment after senior year of high school.
• Number of small businesses who hire welfare-to-work individuals
• Job retention of welfare-to-work program participants
• Numbers of agencies requesting University Outreach & Extension resources.

1. Consumer Horticulture

The consumer horticulture program will help individuals in the county find information and answers to solve a variety of tree, plant, and insect problems around their home. The program will teach strategies for managing healthy lawns, trees, and gardens, including appropriate control measures for insects and disease that minimize risk to the environment.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Make available information on a variety of home horticulture topics to at least 1,000 people each year
2. Establish an answer line the pubic can call for home gardening assistance
3. Work with the Missouri Department of Conservation and other interested organizations and agencies to develop an Urban Forestry Council with the goal to educate the public concerning good tree health and management.

Baseline Data:

During the last year, staff at the St. Charles County Outreach and Extension Center responded to 550 requests for information. Although the public can call the county office for information, and established answer line with regular hours has not been established. At present, a Forestry Advisory Council for St. Charles County does not exist.

Indicators:

• Number of people who call for information
• Number of facts sheets and bulletins distributed
• Number of soil tests conducted
• Organizational development of a Urban Forestry Advisory Council

2. Master Gardeners

The Master Gardener program provides 45 hours of intensive instruction in horticulture. At the conclusion, participants are designated as Master Gardener Interns and agree to volunteer for a minimum of 50 hours in various educational programs to become fully certified Master Gardeners. The mission of the Master Gardener program is to provide horticultural information and training to the gardening public, based on University of Missouri research specific to the local climate, soils, and plants. A phone answer line, school gardening programs, plant clinics, community gardening, writing gardening articles, school gardening programs, plant clinics, community gardening, writing gardening articles, and newsletters are examples of program delivery strategies.

Measurable Objectives:

1. A minimum of ten new participants each year will complete the 45 hours of classroom instruction and become Master Gardener Interns.
2. 75 percent of all Master Gardener Interns will complete the required 50 hours of volunteer service in approved education programs to become fully certified as Mater Gardeners
3. 50 percent of all Master Gardeners will maintain certification by completing the required annual volunteer hours in approved education programs.
4. At least one new community oriented project will be started each year. Project completion will vary depending size and scope of the project in question
5. Will work to develop a telephone answer line with regular weekly hours supported by Master Gardener volunteers.

Baseline Data:

This is essentially the first year of the Master Gardener program in St. Charles County and consequently is not well known. Experiences from counties with established programs show that citizens seek out the expertise of Master Gardeners to help them solve insect, disease and other problems in the home, yard, and garden.

Indicators:

• Number of Master Gardeners that complete the basic 45 hours of instruction
• Number of clientele that contact the office for information
• Activities and projects organized by or participated in by Master Gardener volunteers.

Program Theme #4 – Natural Resources.

1.  Watershed Management.

The several communities within the Dardenne Creek watershed in St. Charles county are seeing rapid urban growth and development. This growth is resulting in an increased potential for flooding and loss of green space. The creek corridor is being damaged by construction and development adjacent to the creek The county and communities in the watershed need to work together to ensure that development within the watershed minimizes these risks.

Measurable Objectives

1. The development of a community/agency advisory committee for the Dardenne Creek watershed to help foster managed growth that will protect the watershed and the creek corridor.
2. Establish a demonstration site along the Dardenne creek to demonstrate methods to protect the creek corridor.

Baseline Data:

At present, a non profit group know as the Greenway Network is attempting to facilitate the organization of a watershed management group.

Indicators:

• Successful formation of a county-wide community/agency advisory group to help protect the corridor of the Dardenne Creek watershed.
• Development of a site along the Dardenne Creek that will illustrate correct principles for stream-bank management.

Program Theme #5 – Agricultural Profitability

Growth in St. Charles county is projected to continue into the near future and will result in loss of additional cropland. It is important to note however, that a significant amount of cropland in St. Charles County is found in the productive bottomlands of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Urban development in these areas will likely limited due to risk of flooding. Remaining farms will need to have efficient and productive operations to remain viable in the future. This need is especially critical under the current state of depressed commodity prices. Of particular note are soybean prices that have dropped sharply to the low end of their range of the past quarter-century. A team approach involving producers, regional and state specialists, and agricultural business will work together to provide information to assist crop producers to be efficient and productive.

1. Crop Production Efficiency

This is a general effort to assist crop farmers to stay abreast of the latest agronomic information to remain efficient and productive. Newsletters, field days, workshops, web pages, educational materials, and technical assistance are key program delivery strategies.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Increase by 10 percent each year the number of producers that receive technical assistance
2. Fifty percent of the producers that receive technical assistance will adopt one or more of the practices discussed

Baseline Data:

University Outreach and Extension has long history of providing unbiased, researched-based information on a wide range of crop production topics. Farmers look to newsletters and annual meetings for the latest crop information.

Indicators:

• Number of producers that attend production meetings
• Number of producers the adopt new production practices
• Number of producers that seek technical assistance

Program Theme #6 – Community Development

Concerns raised by citizens during the planning process basically focused around the tremendous growth that is currently underway in the county. Citizens expressed concern that growth and development of new residential subdivisions and businesses is taking place with little planning or organization, especially from a county-wide perspective. The phrase that captured the feelings and thoughts of many was a need for "orderly urban development".

Many citizens also expressed a need to develop more parks throughout the county. They defined this as NOT more baseball and soccer fields, but as protection or preservation of naturally vegetated areas for enjoyment by county citizens. Areas where a family could enjoy a picnic and the natural scenery that the county has to offer.

There were also some who discussed issues of public transportation and specifically bringing Metro Link to St. Charles County. Continued growth in the county is making the morning and afternoon commute between St. Charles and St. Louis counties increasing slow and difficult on I-70 and Highway 40.

Measurable Obectives:

Due to lack of resources and staffing, specific objectives have not been developed at this time.

Introduction

The St. Francois County University Outreach & Extension Center is the front door of the four campuses of the University of Missouri System and Lincoln University. University Outreach & Extension maintains a unique partnership among federal, state, and local governments that provides access to the research based resources needed to provide high quality educational programs on issues of highest priority to meet the needs of the citizens of Missouri. The St. Francois County Extension Council, as established by state statute, is a partner with University Outreach & Extension and United States Department of Agriculture - Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service (USDA-CSREES) in the development, implementation and evaluation of extension educational programs.

Rationale for the Program Plan

This plan began with University Outreach & Extension working in partnership with the St. Francois County Caring Communities to hold deliberative group community meetings in five locations around the county in December 1998. In those meetings participants identified the future outcomes they believed to be of highest concern to the majority of citizens in the county. Additionally, town hall meetings were held to determine environmental priorities in the areas of soil and water conservation, pesticide usage and livestock waste management.

The priorities emerging from that process, along with our analysis of the major socio-economic trends in the county, and an assessment of the current outreach and extension programs being offered in the county provided the basis for the final plan. The plan was jointly developed and written by the county extension council and extension staff.

St. Francois County citizens envision a future that includes citizens actively involved in their communities and vibrant communities with a strong economy based on agriculture, small business and tourism. Such a future has an economic base that provides for employment opportunities and income above the poverty level for all our citizens. Our extension programs are designed to help farms, firms and individuals in this county compete in the global economy, achieve a safe and supportive environment for individuals and families, and develop effective and responsive community leadership.

Population Trends

St. Francois County is one of the fastest growing non-metropolitan counties in the state of Missouri. The population in 1997 was estimated at 54,598 up more than 12.0% from the population in 1990. At a growth rate of 1.7% each year, compared with 0.8% for the state of Missouri, the increasing population will play a significant role in the overall development of our county. Another significant change in the increase in the minority population which grew 354.0% from 1980-90. Although the total minority population, as a percent of the total population, still remain at only 2.6%.

Housing Profile:

The livability and attractiveness of a community can be greatly enhanced by the condition of housing. Citizens in each of the five county deliberative groups identified a lack of suitable and affordable housing as a critical need in their communities. Over 21% of St. Francois County citizens are housing cost burdened; forced to pay over 30% of their income for housing. Housing prices have increased at a much faster rate than wages, up to 20 - 30% increase in average sales price the past year. Age and condition of housing stock is a significant problem. Park Hills reported 77% of housing over 30 years old. Over 27% of housing was physically inadequate, deteriorating or dilapidated. Communities report occupancy rates of over 95%. Because of our rapidly growing population, limited housing availability, deteriorating housing stock, and escalating prices; providing affordable housing is a complex challenge. Affordable housing programs must provide assistance to first-time homeowners, involve coalitions of agencies and community leaders in providing affordable housing and financing options, and encourage rehabilitation and maintenance of existing housing stock.

Children, Youth and Families

University Outreach and Extension will work with citizens and individuals to meet the needs that assure nurturing and caring environments that contribute to the development of resilient, healthy, and productive children, youth and families. In each of the five deliberative group meetings throughout the county, the need to support healthy families was the top priority. According to the 1998 Kid Count report, St. Francois County ranked second highest in the region, with 26.8% of the number of children living in poverty. Jefferson County reports in at 13.3% and Ste. Genevieve with 13.8% of their children living in poverty. This f1actor alone puts our youth and families at greater risk.

Program Themes

Based on the priorities expressed by citizens in the county, we have chosen to focus the time and resources of our extension programs on three program themes: Environmental Quality and Stewardship, Strengthening Families and Youth, and Economic Enhancement and Stability.

PROGRAM THEME 1: ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AND STEWARDSHIP

With Missouri reaching 2nd nationally in percentage soil loss to erosion, environmental concerns and natural resources stewardship continues to be a major concern to the citizens of St. Francois county. To that end University Outreach & Extension seeks to develop educational programs that promote environmental quality and stewardship. Educational programs will focus on 1) Conservation and Stewardship Issues and 2) Environmental Health and Safety.

1. Conservation and Stewardship issues

Baseline statement: Protection of the natural resources such as soil and water and the reduction of waste sent to landfills are priorities to St. Francois County citizens

Objective:

1. 50 Families and youth will learn appropriate waste management practices to conserve our natural resources and reduce waste sent to landfills.

Indicators

1. Number of participants attending waste management programs and activities.
2. Number of participants reporting an increased knowledge of waste management practices based on program evaluations.
3. Number of participants reporting adoption of one or more recommended practices to reduce amounts of waste generated in the home.

Objective:

Baseline statement: Reduced soil erosion-University Extension through cooperative efforts with MDC and NRCS will provided educational programs and technical assistance to assist St. Francois County residents in practicing good stewardship and using soil conserving practices.

2. Each year increase by 10% those residents using soil conserving practices.
3. To be an active participant on the St. Francois Soil and Water District Board.
4. Each year to significantly improve water quality through better livestock waste management practices.

Indicators:

1. Number participating in soil and water conservation and approved pesticide usage programming.
2. Number developing soil and water conservation practices.

 Objective:

5. 5 4-H clubs and 5 School Enrichment Classrooms will adopt one environmental project per year (including but not limited to Storm Drain Stenciling, Conserving Natural Resources and/or Water Riches) which will result in increased knowledge of water soil and land.
6. 200 school age youth will learn about agriculture and its relationship to nutrition, water, soil and use of the land.
7. 20 Elementary school teachers will complete course requirements of the "Water Quality in the Classroom" program.

Indicators:

1. Number of clubs reporting completing the activity and adoption of safe practices.
2. Number of students participating in school enrichment environment projects.
3. Number of teachers completing course requirements

Objective

The Master Gardener program in St. Francois County provides 30 hours of intensive instruction in horticulture. Participants agree to volunteer for a minimum of 30 hours in return by providing educational programs to home gardeners, those who wish to produce for farmer’s markets and answering horticultural calls.

8. Annually, fifteen new Master Gardeners will complete the Master Gardener educational course.
9. 50% of the previously trained Master Gardeners will achieve Advanced Master Gardener status.
10. A Master Gardener Hotline will be established in St. Francois County.

Indicators:

Currently there are 10 active Master Gardeners in St. Francois County.

1. Number of Master Gardeners that complete the basic training course.
2. Number of Master Gardeners that complete the Advanced Master Gardener training.
3. Number of clientele that use the Master Gardener’s as a community resource.

2. Environmental Health and Safety

Baseline statement: Environmental Health issues related to lead, household hazardous wastes and indoor air pollution have a significant impact on the health of county citizens. Protecting the environment and health of citizens starts with the individual.

Objectives:

1. The Healthy Home – Indoor Air Quality –

50 families will reduce health risks of indoor pollutants such as Carbon monoxide and biological contaminants by adopting one or more practices to improve the air quality in their home.

Indicators:

1. Number of participants attending indoor air quality programs and activities.
2. Number of participants reporting an increased knowledge of potential health hazards in their home’s indoor air, based on program evaluations.
3. Number of participants reporting adoption of one or more recommended practices to improve air quality.

2. Home*A*Syst Program helps families assess their personal environmental risks and their contribution to managing environmental issues.

Indicators:

1. Number of people receiving Home*A*Syst program information.
2. Number of participants reporting increased knowledge of environmental risks based on program evaluation.
3. Number of participants reporting adoption of one or more recommended practices to protect the environment.

3. Lead Safety in the Home and Community –

Baseline statement: The Lead Belt area faces serious environmental lead hazards from mining wastes. 27.0% of children in St. Francois County suffer from elevated blood lead levels compared with 8.0% in Jefferson County, 8.0 in Ste. Genevieve County and 11.0 in Washington County. The St. Francois County Extension Center will work with the St. Francois County Environmental Roundtable programs, Lead Health Project, Mine Waste Reclamation projects to impact the health and economy of the area.

Objectives

Lead Safety

1. 50 families will participate in Lead Reduction projects to lower lead levels in their homes.
2. By the year 2003, three hundred children age 6 and under will be tested for lead as reported by the St. Francois County Health Department.

Indicators:

1. Number of participants in Lead Health study activities.
2. Number of families adopting one or more practices to reduce lead risks in their homes
3. Number of families participating in Lead mitigation projects in their homes, based on County Lead project reports.

Household Hazardous Wastes present a risk to families and the environment.

3. 50 Students and families will learn to identify and properly use, store and dispose of household hazardous wastes

Indicators:

1. Number of families receiving information on reducing household hazardous wastes.
2. Number of people reporting increased knowledge of household hazardous waste management practices as based on program evaluation data.
3. Number of people adopting one or more changes leading to reduced risks related to household hazardous products.

4. Environmental Health & Safety

Number of 4-H Clubs each year will adopt one environmental health & safety activity including, but not limited to, Household Hazardous Waste assessment, and hazardous waste collection based on club reports.

Indicators:

1. Number of clubs reporting completing the activity and adoption of safe practices.
2. Number of students participating in school enrichment environment projects.

1. Affordable Housing:

Baseline Statement: The availability of affordable housing is essential to the growth and stability of a community. Community coalitions and educational programs to increase the availability of affordable housing and protect and renew existing housing stock are an important part of meeting the community needs for safe and affordable housing.

Objectives:

1. A coalition of agencies will work together to improve the availability of affordable housing stock resulting in 25 low income families obtaining safe, affordable new housing.

Indicators:

1. Number of citizens requesting home loan information through the Missouri Housing Partners Program
2. Number of low income citizens receiving housing assistance will find affordable housing through programs including Habitat for Humanity, Self Help Housing and low income loan programs.
3. Number of Agencies participating in low income home ownership programs

2. 25 first time home buyers will learn financial skills to determine the price of a home they can afford through the Home Ownership Made Easier Program.

 Indicators:

1. Number of citizens requesting home buying information through University Outreach & Extension programs.
2. Number of people reporting increased knowledge of how much home they can afford.

3. 15 first-time homeowners completing the Home Ownership Made Easier program will purchase a home.

Indicators:

1. Number of Home Ownership Made Easier participants reporting purchasing a home in follow up evaluations

2. Maintaining Your Housing Investment:

Baseline Statement: In order to protect family’s housing investment and improve the value of the community, University Outreach & Extension will initiate the Home Works – Maintaining Your Housing Investment Program to promote successful homeownership through development of home maintenance and financial management skills

Objectives:

1. 30 Participants of the Home Works – Maintaining Your Housing Investment Program will identify two or more preventative home maintenance practices to protect the investment in their homes.

Indicator:

1. Number of Participants receiving home maintenance information.
2. Number of participants reporting basic knowledge of home maintenance skills based on program evaluation.

2. 20 agencies and individuals will learn appropriate measures to provide safe and accessible living environments for the elderly and people with special needs resulting in an increase of accessible housing available.

Indicators:

1. Number individuals participating in a program on housing to meet special needs of elderly and disabled.
2. Increase in knowledge of housing adaptations to increase accessibility and safety as reported in program participant evaluations.

3. Youth workforce Preparation and Career Development

Baseline Statement: Opportunities for young people to learn from adults in a safe environment will help them develop career and business management skill for their future.

Objectives:

1. 3 school districts will have at least one site with an after school 4-H computer lab.
2. At least one team of seven youth will be trained for the SERIES Science Program to be presented to younger youth about science.
3. At least 15 youth will become involved in 4-H "Sellers & Service" aka entrepreneurship

Indicators:

1. Number of youth in after school computer clubs.
2. Survey of youth and educator who report improvement in grades and increased interest in technology.
3. Number of youth who start a small business providing a product or service.

4. Community Cooperation

As St. Francois County grows and changes, the need for cooperation at every level is critical if resources are to be used effectively and efficiently. University Outreach and Extension will work with elected officials, county institutions, organizations, and residents to foster county-wide cooperation. Assistance may range from building coalitions to address community issues to facilitating networks that strengthen social capital to mobilizing internal or external resources to address a specific community needs. A community’s economic stability depends on community cooperation and wise use of resources.

Objectives:

1. Information and assistance in strategic planning, meeting facilitation, process consultations, needs assessment, citizen engagement, management and organizational structures will be made available to at least 10 communities and community organizations each year.
2. Work with community leaders in at least 1 community or a community organization each year to implement a comprehensive planning process based on use of the sound community development tools.

Indicators

1. Practices or assistance results in the organization’s efforts to implement a plan to achieve their goals
2. Participants satisfaction with the assistance
3. Follow up requests for assistance

5. Sound Economic Development

A comprehensive approach to community economic development is a critical factor for long-term success in any community. University Outreach & Extension will work with local community leaders, chambers of commerce and other economic development entities to assist communities build and/or foster an environment that assists new and small businesses in St. Francois County succeed.

Objectives:

Business Retention and Expansion Program offers an organized effort to support local existing businesses. Failing to do so, the community will not only overlook a tremendous source of job creation (40-80% of net jobs created annually in the United States), it will also be less successful in its efforts to recruit new businesses. A formal Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) visitation program will provide a process for the organizational development, planning, and implementation of efforts to encourage the survival and growth of the county’s existing businesses.

1. Working with local community leaders, University Outreach & Extension will organize and implement a BR&E program in at least one community to                    

• Improve public relations with existing firms.
• Help firms solve internal operating problems.
• Help firms become more economically competitive.
• Develop action-based strategic plans for community economic development.
• Build community capacity for community economic development.

Indicators:

The outcomes of organizing and implementing a BR&E program will be determined through a follow up survey with participating firms and communities. Indicators include the following:

1. Number of existing firms participating in the program.
2. Change in the number of persons employed by businesses participating in the program.
3. Change in assessed valuation of commercial property in the community.
4. Change in the level of citizen participation in local community / economic development activities.

Agriculture Profitability and Viability of the family farm - Profitable St. Francois county agriculture is based on profitable livestock production with 17,000,000 in sales in 1992 of which cattle accounted for 2/3 of the total. There are opportunities for beef-forage producers to increase profitability by adopting improved management practices for forage production, utilization, animal nutrition, selection of breeding stock, heifer replacement strategies, and improved marketing of agriculture products/livestock.

Forage production-utilization-Increasing forage production-utilization is one key to profitability for cow-calf enterprises on Missouri farms.

Objectives

1. Increase by 10% St. Francois beef producers utilizing soil test information
2. Provide information on forage management, to increase forage quantity, quality and utilization, to 100 St. Francois County beef producer each year
3. Provide an opportunity each year for St. Francois County beef producers to attend a "Grazing School"

Currently 140,000 acres of forage production support approximately 25,000 beef cows and their offspring.

Indicators

1. Number of producers utilizing soil testing.
2. Number of producers requesting information, attending workshops and educational meetings.
3. Number of producers attending "grazing schools".
4. % of those attending who adopt improved forage management practices and those who develop management-intensive grazing systems.

Beef Production/management/selection/value added/marketing-Improved practices in each of these areas are key to improved profitability and viability of St. Francois County Beef Farms.

Objectives:

1. Each year, increase by 10% those beef producers requesting management, selection, value added and marketing information.
2. Increase by 10 %, each year, those beef producers who utilize performance selection as a tool to choose their breeding herds, select breeding stock, or test their production.
3. Increase by 5 %, each year, those beef producers who utilize value added marketing programs.
4. Each year, improve by 5 % those beef producers who participate in the Cattlemen Associations educational meetings.

Currently profitable beef production is the key to the profitability and viability of the St. Francois County Farm.

Indicators

1. Number of producers requesting information.
2. Number of producers enrolled in the performance program and the number selecting performance proven breeding stock.
3. Enrollment in value added programs.
4. Increase in the number of participants in cattlemen meetings and those requesting meeting notification.

General Agriculture-including horticulture citizens, including agricultural producers, have specific educational needs regarding plant production, have grounds management, marketing produce and fruit production.

Objectives

1. Each year, 150 individuals will receive technical-research based information on gardening and home grounds care from the local agriculturist.
2. Each year 250 individuals will receive technical information from the County University and Outreach Extension Office.

In 1998 over 750 individuals visited the local Extension Office in search of technical-research based information.

Indicators

1. Number of citizens making contact with the agriculturist
2. Number contacting the local Extension Center

PROGRAM THEME 3: STRENGTHENING FAMILIES AND YOUTH

Baseline Statement: Data from Kids Count ’98 and OSEDA, deliberative groups and Caring Communities data point to areas of concern regarding youth & families in St. Francois County. Programs to meet the challenges of everyday life will support the social, physical and financial well being of Missouri citizens. The educational programs, associated events and activities are designed to strengthen youth & families through leadership development & life skills.

 1. Leadership Development

Baseline Statement: Community Leadership is a shared responsibility. University Outreach & Extension will work with community leaders to develop opportunities for formal and informal leadership programs.

Objective

1. 300 youth & adults will collaborate with civic and service organizations to improve their community.

Indicators

1. Number of participants involved in collaborative projects
2. Number of community projects completed by civic organizations and 4-H.

2. 800 youth will be involved in 4-H programs will include but not limited to year-long clubs, single project, intermediate clubs, and school based after school clubs.

Indicators:

1. Number of youth & adults involved in year long clubs.
2. Number of youth & adults involved in school based after school computer labs and single project intermediate clubs.

3. 75 teens will develop leadership skills by participating in youth council, regional teen council, trips, training and by conducting projects & workshops for younger youth.

Indicators:

1. Number of youth enrolled in council, attending trips and leading groups.
2. Youth will be surveyed regarding value of involvement in other activities.
3. 200 adults will serve as volunteers for 4-H programs & activities.

Indicators:

1. Number of adult volunteers in 4-H.
2. Number of adult volunteers participating in leadership training opportunities.

2. Life Skills

Baseline Statement: Needs related to strengthening families have been identified statewide in over 90 counties. Data from Kids Count substantiate the need for stronger families and increased parenting skills.

Objectives:

1. 50 participants will learn basic resource management skills that promote self-sufficiency and enhance individuals’ ability to make informed consumer decisions.

Indicators:

1. Number of participants attending programs to improve consumer skills.
2. Number of participants reporting increased knowledge of practices to reduce living expenses, as reported in program evaluations.

Women’s Financial Information Program (WFIP) is a six session program designed to change and improve financial management skills of women. University Outreach & Extension will work with community organizations, agencies and past WFIP graduates to jointly plan and implemented a WFIP program in St. Francois County.

Objectives:

At least five community organizations will join University Outreach & Extension in planning and implementing the WFIP in St. Francois County.

1. 50 women will complete WFIP each year.
2. 60% of participants will report increased knowledge in the six educational areas included in the program.
3. 60% of participants will report increased self-confidence in financial decision-making.
4. 60% of participants will report the adoption of one or more financial management practices recommended in this program.

Indicators:

WFIP has not been offered in St. Francois County in more than two years. A pre-class survey will be used to determine current financial knowledge and practices.

1. coalition to plan and implement the program.
2. Percent of participants who complete the total course.
3. Number of participants showing increased knowledge through the WFIP evaluation process.
4. Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in financial decision-making through the WFIP evaluation.
5. Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended financial practices through the WFIP evaluation process.

5. Child Care Provider Training: 25 participants will participate in childcare training resulting in increased knowledge of appropriate childcare techniques.

Indicators:

1. Number of participants attending programs to improve consumer skills
2. Number of participants reporting increased knowledge practices to reduce

6. Building Strong Families Programs: 20 working parents with dependents will identify strengths of their own families and learn skills to build upon those strengths.

Indicators:

1. Number of participants in Building Strong Families programs
2. Number of participants reporting increased knowledge of skills to build family strengths as reported in follow up program evaluation data.

3. Youth Decision Development:

Objectives:

1. 800 youth will enroll in projects designed to improve their decision making skills, social skills, community involvement, and better living.
2. Through 4-H and school enrichment programs 400 youth will develop conflict management skills by participating in Talking with T.J. and Show-Me Character.

Indicators:

1. Educators, parents and volunteers will be surveyed to determine changes in the way children interact with each other.
2. Number of exhibits entered in Round-up and the county fair.
3. Number of participants in regional and state contests.
4. Number of youth participants in Body Walk, health fairs, Talking with T.J. and Show-Me Character.

3. During each year offer 50 4-H and FFA youth learning opportunities in beef, swine, and sheep selection, management and nutrition; and to assist them in developing skills in these areas.
4. Offer them an opportunity to exhibit the results of those learning opportunities i.e. project meetings, 4-H roundup, St. Francois County Fair.

Indicators

1. Number participating in the learning experiences
2. Number of junior beef and swine projects
3. Number exhibiting these livestock projects

5. County Health & Wellness Programs: 200 Citizens will gain knowledge of healthy lifestyle practices through participation in county health and wellness fairs and activities.

Indicators:

1. Number of participants attending health and wellness programs.

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Introduction

The St. Louis County University Outreach and Extension Center is the county's tie to the University of Missouri System and to Lincoln University. University Outreach and Extension is part of a unique partnership between federal, state, and local governments. This partnership offers access to the research-based resources needed to provide high quality educational programs on issues of highest priority to meet the needs of the citizens of Missouri.

Rationale for the Program Plan

The 2000-2003 Plan of Work development process for St. Louis County began in the fall of 1998 with four deliberative group sessions involving 49 county residents who met to identify the issues they believed to be of wide public concern to the citizens of St. Louis County. These meetings were augmented by information gathered through the deliberative group process at four organizational meetings attended by another 106 county residents. The results of these group meetings were combined with strategic information accumulated by St. Louis County Councilmen and local government officials in area town hall meetings, attended by approximately 170 county residents who discussed issues of concern to them. In all, input from 325 residents was compiled to develop the list of needs analyzed and addressed by Extension Council members in forming the priorities for our next four years of programming efforts.

Background Information

Overall, population growth for St. Louis County was a flat 1% between 19

90 and 1996, and only showed 2% growth between 1980 and 1990. St. Louis County's population was estimated at 1,003,807 in 1996. This is the slowest growth rate of the ten counties in the East Central Region. Between 1990 and 1996 the African-American population of St. Louis County increased by more than 20,000 (14.2%) while the African-American population of St. Louis City declined by more than 8,000 (-4.3%). St. Louis County has the largest concentration of Asian Americans in the region (18,600), and the largest gain, from 14,400 to18,600. St. Louis County also has the largest Hispanic population in the region -- almost 2,000, a growth of 26% between 1990 and 1996.

In contrast to 1990, 1996 showed a decline in the number of children under 5 years of age. There was also a significant decline in the number of 18-24 year-olds (9,407 less). Much of the loss may be attributed to families with young children and young adults relocating to adjoining suburban counties, as reflected by increases of these age groups in these counties. These changes will have implications for school enrollment and the size of the future entry-level work force.

In the adult population, the age group of 25-64 increased by 2,490 while the age group 65 and over grew by 12,790, a 9.9% increase in that group. The increase in the elderly population is the result of the general aging of the part of the population that is not inclined to move to new surroundings.

The overall educational level of those 25 and older in St. Louis County is greater than that of the region as a whole, with higher than average percents of college attendees or graduates. Sixteen of the 24 St. Louis County school districts report a high-school dropout rate below the state average of 6.8%, with eight reporting a higher average

The St. Louis County economic base consists of a mixture of small to large businesses, though the vast majority employs less than twenty people. While St. Louis County has seen only a small increase in total numbers of businesses -- including a loss in the numbers of medium and large businesses -- the number of home-based businesses has grown dramatically from 1715 in 1995 to 3315 in 1997. These numbers do not include the many home-based business owners who have not legally registered their businesses.

Between 1990 and 1995, the annual payroll in St. Louis County increased 12.2% from $13,706,402 to $15,384,414; the number of employees grew by 6.4% to 734,748; and unemployment remained below the national average of 4%. St. Louis County has the highest per capita income in the state. It accounts for 19% of Missouri's population, but generates 27% of the state's personal income.

Environmental, community, and housing issues addressed included aging housing stock, deteriorating neighborhoods, lack of recycling initiatives and opportunities, and diminished green space.

Concerns

St. Louis County residents see a densely populated county facing urban sprawl, growth and expansion of some communities, and dwindling populations and resources in others. They see a need for more cooperation between the 91 municipalities, as well as the 24 school districts located in the county. Participants were especially concerned about the need for neighborhood revitalization, and expressed concern about continuing economic growth, the availability of jobs, and support for families and young people in a variety of situations, most especially those on temporary assistance that will be effected by "Welfare to Work" legislation.

The needs expressed and the priorities emerging from the process, along with our analysis of the current conditions in the county, and the major socio-economic trends in the area provided the basis for the final plan developed by University Outreach and Extension staff working closely with St. Louis County Extension Council members.

 Program Theme #1: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Community Development

As St. Louis County changes, the need for effectively community planning and cooperation at every level is critical if resources are to be used efficiently and the county is to remain economically healthy. University Outreach and Extension will work with elected officials, community organizations and residents to foster cooperation and to assist in supporting community improvement initiatives. Assistance provided will include technical assistance in strategic planning, meeting facilitation, citizen engagement consultations, staff and volunteer training, assistance with the development of management and organizational structures, and related support.

Measurable Objectives:

1. In each program year, a minimum of twenty municipalities or community/neighborhood organizations will receive assistance from University Outreach and Extension and will design and implement community improvement projects and/or plans.
2. In each program year, a minimum of three municipalities or community/neighborhood organizations will form a partnership to develop a comprehensive community improvement plan. The plan will include benchmarks and short-term project goals, to be achieved by the university/community partnership.

Specification of Outcome Indicators:

• Number of programs/projects designed and implemented; achievement of specific community-defined goals.
• Completion of three comprehensive neighborhood improvements plans, with achievement of short-term project goals.

Baseline Data:

University Outreach and Extension will work with communities who have not yet developed a comprehensive improvement plan or implemented specific community improvement projects. Data on conditions prior to project implementation will be recorded. Data sources, including the UM Office of Social and Economic Data Analysis, St. Louis County Government, and East-West Gateway Coordinating Council, will also be utilized to analyze changes in baseline social and economic data for each selected community.

Kaleidoscope – Combining the Colors

Kaleidoscope is a multipurpose program addressing earning styles as they relate to communication, diversity, conflict resolution, leadership and a variety of other issues. This program focuses primarily on perceptions and their resulting consequences in relationships, whether in the home, the workplace or the community. Emphasis is on individual change.

Measurable Objectives:

1. To create awareness in individuals regarding the influence perceptions have on relationships with others.
2. To provide basic tools to assist in the improvement of relationships in all environments.

Baseline Data:

The Kaleidoscope program has been very popular in spite of the fact that no marketing has been done. Dozens of sessions with teachers, union members, accountants, hospital personnel, students, council members and others have been presented across the state.

Good relationships with others is key to a more productive, pleasant environment.

Indicators:

Written evaluations are obtained at the end of each session and have been extremely favorable. New sessions are continuously being requested.

Community Re-Entry

This program is a community-based program for men and women who have served a period of incarceration and are returning to the St. Louis area. Operating under the auspices of Lutheran Ministries Association of St. Louis, CRE provides practical assistance and support designed to help ex-offenders increase their self-worth and self-confidence through transitional CARE TEAM employment, resource awareness, in-service training, and support sessions. University Outreach and Extension’s role is as board member, trainer, educator, and consultant.

Measurable Objectives:

1. To offer resources and support to individuals re-entering the community after a period of incarceration.
2. To provide opportunities to learn on-the-job skills in a safe environment.
3. To provide sufficient support to prevent recidivism.

Baseline Data:

The St. Louis metropolitan region is faced with a high crime rate and an even higher recidivism rate. Individuals transitioning to society from a prison environment find few supports to help lead a crime-free life. CRE targets ex-offenders who are seeking a positive re-entry process.

Indicators:

• Number of ex-offenders who remain outside of prison
• Number of ex-offenders who are employed.
• Number of re-entered individuals who attend support groups and other programs offered by CRE.

H.O.M.E. (Home Ownership Made Easier)

H.O.M.E. is a program, which prepares first-time homebuyers to make the complicated decisions required in the home buying process. The program is jointly planned and implemented by University Outreach and Extension and several other federal, state and local agencies. The program will be taught to groups face-to-face and over interactive television.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 200 first-time homebuyers will determine the price home they can afford.
2. 50 participants will report adoption of one or more financial management practices recommended in the program.
3. 120 participants will purchase a home.

Indicators:

• Number of participants showing increased knowledge through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in home buying process through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process.
• Number of participants who purchase a home upon completion of the course through the H.O.M.E. evaluation process.

is a program which promotes successful homeownership through the development of home maintenance and financial management skills related to ownership of a home.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 80 homeowners will identify preventative home maintenance practices they can do to maintain their home.
2. 80 homeowners will identify financial management practices related to homeownership.

Indicators:

• Number of participants showing increased knowledge through HomeWorks evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in maintaining their home and managing the finances related to home ownership.
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the HomeWorks evaluation process.

Business and Industry

In 1990, there were a total of 29,574 businesses in St. Louis County. By 1995, that number had increased very slightly to 29,630. With almost 30,000 businesses in the county, it is imperative for the economic well being of workers, business owners, and the citizens of St. Louis County that educational programs, business assistance and information for both new and existing businesses be available. University Outreach and Extension’s business and industry program is designed to help people who wish to start a new business or improve existing small businesses through direct interaction, mutually beneficial partnerships and innovation to transfer skills, knowledge and services that improve management performance. Among the educational programs that will be offered in the county are the following:

Starting A New Business

Training and educational counseling activities related to "Starting a New Business" will be conducted specifically for St. Louis County residents who wish to start a small business.

Measurable Objectives:

1. University Outreach and Extension in cooperation with SCORE/SBA will provide training for 500 people through a seminar entitled "How To Start Your Own Business."
2. UOE will assist at least 20 people who wish to start new businesses.

Baseline Data:

Approximately 84 percent of the businesses in St. Louis County have less than 20 employees.

Indicators:

Through a clientele survey with small business owners and managers who participate in the business and industry programs, information will be gathered that captures the change among clientele in the following area:

• Number of potential business owners seeking information through training sessions.
• Number of individuals seeking counseling for starting a new business.
• Number of individuals choosing not to enter new businesses based on counseling and training information.

Home-Based Businesses

Home-based businesses face additional challenges, due to their interaction with their families and the perception of the public regarding their professionalism.

Measurable Objectives: University Outreach and Extension will provide counseling and information to 30 current and prospective home-based business owners.

Baseline Data:

Although the growth of commercially located businesses has slowed in St. Louis County, the latest figures available show that the rate of growth of home-based businesses has increased dramatically from 1715 in 1995 to 3,315 in 1997.

Indicators:

Through a clientele survey with small business owners and managers who participate in the home-based business programs, information will be gathered that captures the change among clientele in the following area:

• Number of clients counseled.
• Number of start-ups following counseling.

Retention and Expansion of Existing Businesses

Revitalizing existing communities requires a comprehensive approach to community economic development. An important component of such an approach is to conduct an organized effort to support local existing businesses. Failing to do so, the community will not only overlook a tremendous source of job creation (40-80% of net jobs created annually in the United States), it will also be generally less successful in its efforts to recruit new businesses. The University Outreach and Extension Business and Industry program will work with communities and Chambers of Commerce to assess the needs of current business owners and to provide information and counseling to address those needs.

Measurable Objectives:

University Outreach and Extension will organize and implement a Business Retention and Expansion program in St. Louis County to:

1. Five participants will improve their knowledge of factors effecting managing a successful business.
2. Two firms will become more economically competitive by participating in the Strategic Management Analysis and Review Tool (SMART)

Indicators:

The outcomes will be determined through a follow up survey with participating firms. At present we are not working with Chambers of Commerce in the county. The indicators include the following:

• Number of firms requesting information or counseling
• Number of existing firms participating in the program.

St. Louis County seeks to have quality life long learning opportunities that will enable its citizens to compete in the workplace and earn incomes above the poverty level as well as moving their incomes to a level above where it is presently. Educational programs to meet individual, business and community needs in the county include the following:

Labor Education Program

consists of non-credit workshops, classes and conferences for union rank and file, shop stewards, officers and community groups on topics such as: Grievance Handling; Communication Skills; Legislative Issues; Labor Law; Increasing Membership Involvement; Collective Bargaining Basics; Occupational Health and Safety Issues and Workforce Diversity.

Measurable Objectives:

1. At least 600 participants will attend Labor Education programs.
2. Participants will improve their knowledge/understanding/skills/abilities relative to the duties of their role as a union member or leader, as reflected in their program evaluation instrument.

Baseline Data:

As of 1996, census data indicates there are 374,400 union members in the state of Missouri. Approximately 50% of these union members reside and work in the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. Input on program offerings and content is obtained from local Labor Education Advisory Committee.

Indicators:

• Number of requests for information and programs.
• Number of program participants.
• Written evaluation forms.

WorkABLE St. Louis

is the regional Work Keys Alliance of Business, Labor and Education, a partnership utilizing ACT’s national Work Keys system to profile, assess and teach foundational workplace skills. The Work Keys system is intended for use with secondary and post-secondary students and adult workers. The eight skill areas that form the basis of the Work Keys system are: Reading for Information; Applied Mathematics; Listening; Writing; Locating Information; Applied Technology; Observation; and Teamwork.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Increased use of Work Keys (profiling, assessments and instruction) in metropolitan St. Louis area.
2. Foundational skill improvement by individuals and groups indicated by Work Keys assessment scores.

Baseline Data:

Baseline data for Work Keys profiles and assessments in the St. Louis area is being obtained by profiling 25-30 high demand occupations and assessing more than 3000 individuals with close to 12,000 subtests.

Indicators:

• Number of partners in WorkABLE.
• Number of occupation/job profiles; student/worker assessments; and instructional providers and learners.
• Pre- and post- assessment skill scores.

The School-to-Work Labor Partnership

links union workers and workplaces to schools, teachers and students. Some programs, such as providing union speakers for classrooms have been going on for some time, while other programs, such as an elementary school curriculum "Unions Work for You" have still been in the pilot phase.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Increase number of labor representatives participating in regional school-to-work projects.
2. Begin "Unions Work" or similar curriculum at 5-10 schools.
3. Initiate new labor-oriented school-to-work projects.
4. Increase teachers and students knowledge and understanding of unions and the work performed by union members.

Baseline Data:

Baseline data will be sought from a survey to unions, identifying current labor involvement in school-to-work initiatives and assessing interest in new endeavors.

Indicators:

• Number of unions and union members involved in school-to-work projects.
• Number of teachers, guidance counselors, and students participating in labor oriented school-to-work projects.
• Written and verbal feedback from program participants to assess increase of knowledge and understanding.

WorkWays is a program designed to help individuals on welfare improve the skills necessary to be successful in the work environment and to meet the resulting challenges of home, family and community. There are three distinct components to the WorkWays program: a three-week educational piece, which addresses the five key areas of self-attitude, responsibility, communication, problem solving/decision making, and preparing for the workplace; a mentoring program which includes one-on-one mentoring, community support groups, and counseling and referrals; and a workplace liaison program which supports both worker and employer.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Participants will improve self-esteem and self-confidence necessary to obtain and retain employment.
2. Participants will obtain and retain employment within 6 months after leaving the WorkWays program.

 Workkeys:

The Workkeys system focuses on profiling jobs/occupations which are high demand in this area; assessing individuals on their competency level matching those occupations/jobs. Training/education available to move people from one level to the next level(s); and reports to help continue to focus our efforts.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Conduct 4 occupational/job profiles in high demand occupations and with local corporations.
2. Marketing the service of profiling to 20 new corporations throughout the metro region.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

• Results will be measured by the number of occupational/job profiles completed and the number of people whose skills are assessed.
• Corporations and individuals will be contacted to get information on their perception of the value resulting.

Preparation of Educators of Adults

Preparing educators of adults focuses on training and retraining the workforce, developing literacy skills in undereducated adults, moving those from welfare to work, and younger adults who dropped out of school before they finished high school helping them prepare to enter the workforce.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Conduct 4 courses/workshops on preparing educators of adults to be effective in teaching adults at all levels.
2. Preparing 75 managers and adult educators not ever before reached.
3. Consulting with and mentoring educators of adults to implementing the skills of helping others learn.

Indicators and Baseline Data:

• Each of the prepared adult educators will reach and teach an average of 10 people per week.
• Individuals will receive preparation for entering the workforce and becoming more self- sufficient.

Base Line Data:

The Talking with TJ Conflict Resolution Series is a program of entertaining video stories and fun activities for children in the second through fourth grades. It will help teach children some basic skills in three areas related to working out problems without violence:

1. Keeping anger under control.
2. Respecting other people’s points of view.
3. Communicating effectively to resolve arguments.

Indicators:

• 100% of students complete the pre- and post- test.
• School administrators complete evaluation on progress of some students who were placed in the school and out of school suspension.
• Parents complete evaluation on behavior changes in their children.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Increase by 2003, the number of school districts participating in the program.
2. 25% of students will keep anger under control, respect others, and communicate effectively to resolve arguments.

Base Line Data:

True Colors uses colors to identify four distinct perspectives and personalities. Each color represents an individual’s character.

The four True Colors constitute your character spectrum. Just as an actor refers to shading a character role, so your roles in life, your career, and your relationships with others are shaded. This shading of colors adds dimension and tone to your characteristics. Most of us have a dominant color, influenced or shaded by the others.

Indicators:

• Participants use this as a tool for enjoying success in their professional life, as well, with family, personal relationship and in school.
• Participants recognize the need for self-confidence, individual respect, worthiness and
• self-esteem.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Participates will gain an increased knowledge of self.
2. Participants gain an increased knowledge of others and awareness that will increase professional and personal relationship.

Base Line Data:

The program designed to provide participants with the information and learning experiences of life skills that will include planning, decision making, communication skills, career development, drug and violence prevention, leadership development, conflict mediation and money management training to assist families and individuals in the management/planning of resources.

Indicators:

The program will be delivered in nine sessions and will cover: leadership skills, violence prevention, conflict management, and money management.

Measurable Objectives:

The sessions are to provide participants with development skills that will help guide, challenge, empower, and will provide an opportunity to connect with self and the larger community.

Base Line Data:

Will provide knowledge and skills on how to resolve conflict at home, school, and in their neighborhood.

Indicators:

• Increase their understanding of conflict and its resolution.
• Examine participants’ behavior and attitudes to assess how they contribute to conflict.
• Help build a tolerance of others and respect others views that are different, and deal with other cultures.
• Participants will learn how to express feelings, anger, and frustration in ways that are non-aggressive or by using self-control.
• Participants will learn how to manage conflict in positive, non-threatening and cooperative ways.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Students learn how to handle conflict peacefully.
2. Students are encouraging peers to handle conflicts peacefully.

Base Line Data:

Violence Prevention sessions will help empower participants so they can think reflectively and find alternative solutions to problems about which we will provide knowledge on.

Indicators:

• Ways to deal with a personal crisis in such a way as to avoid violent behavior.
• To increase participants awareness and understanding of violence.
• What is violence and what are its causes?
• To increase awareness of non-violent alternatives for dealing with violence.

Measurable Objectives

1. Teachers will be able to document the number of students whose behavior has improved.
2. There is less conflict among peers.

Base Line Data:

To provide information to community members covering: budgeting process, dollar stretching ideas, debt management, rent to own, record keeping, fraud, contracts, credit references and decision making. These sessions will assist with better planning and management of resources.

Indicators:

• Assisting families and individuals in the planning and prioritizing of the expenses.
• Understanding how values, goals and perceptions of life effect their spending.
• Providing families with information on ways to cut expenses.
• Assisting families and individuals in the safety and organization of their records.

Measurable Objectives:

To provide information to community members covering: budgeting process, dollar stretching ideas, debt management, rent to own, record keeping, and decision making. This will assist with the better planning and management of resources.

Base Line Data:

4-H is the youth and volunteer education program of University Extension, University of Missouri and Lincoln University. It is a family-community effort supplementing and complementing the mission of the home, church, and school for the development of youth.

4-H is:

	An informal educational program,
	Community-based and locally determined.
	Primarily group focused and family oriented,
	Volunteer operated, and
	Coordinated by University Extension faculty.

Indicators:

More than 200 projects and activities in about 40 subjects are available to young people including topics such as aerospace, clothing, computers, nutrition, photography, double dutch rope-jumping, and sports.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Hands on projects inspire self-confidence and creativity, plus life and decision making skills.
2. Provide formal and non-formal community focused experiential learning.
3. Help youth develop skills that benefit them throughout life.
4. Foster leadership and volunteerism in youth and adults.
5. Build internal and external partnerships for programming and funding.
6. Strengthen families and communities.
7. Use research-based knowledge available from the land-grant university system and other sources.

Base Line Data:

It is fun and educational. The 4-H Incubation and Embryology Project Hatching Chicks In The Classroom is a 4-H youth development program. The program encourages hands-on-science learning. Children learn how chicks develop, as well as other life skills related to writing, reading, math, art, and problem solving.

Indicators:

• Students learn about life through watching eggs hatch into chickens.
• Students learn how to care for chicks after they have hatched.

Measurable Objectives:

1. By the year 2003, 100% of school districts in St. Louis County and City will have an opportunity to participate in the program.
2. 100% of all schools will receive a pamphlet and registration to participate in the program.

Baseline Data:

Formal training held for leaders that help develop capable leaders. The training will help leaders see self as significant, having influence, develop self discipline, skills to work with their clubs, developing responsibility and judgment. These skills will be beneficial in assisting our volunteer leaders serving in many roles and capacities they often serve as 4-H leaders.

Indicators:

• Leaders will be better trained to manage club members.
• Leaders will become knowledgeable in safety aspects when working with volunteers.

Measurable Objectives:

1. All leaders experience a decrease in safety incidents while working with volunteers.
2. Evaluations are to be conducted to help measure the decrease or increase in accidents.
3. All leaders participate.

 Practical Parenting Partnerships

is a family resource program, which supports all those who educate and nurture children. PPP offers resources through interactive workshops, which attempt to increase a positive working relationship among schools, parents and community members for the benefit of children. University Outreach and Extension’s role is as a state trainer.

Measurable Objectives:

1. To increase meaningful parent involvement in the schools.
2. To create a greater understanding of children and their developmental stages.
3. To recognize the unique strengths of each child and family in the educational system.

Baseline Data:

Twenty five per cent of young people statewide drop out of high school. In the city of St. Louis the rate hovers between 50 and 60%. High school dropouts earn less money than their counterparts with diplomas. They are more likely to be involved in crime, become pregnant as teenagers, and be unemployed. One of the crucial factors in keeping kids in school is parent involvement.

Indicators:

The private firm of Research & Training Associates, Inc. performs ongoing qualitative and quantitative studies with teachers, administrators, parents, and trainers. Indicators include:

• Number of schools implementing PPP principles.
• Number of parents involved in school-based activities.
• Number of parents attending workshops relating to developmental stages and other child-related issues.
• Number of community agencies and organizations involved in school related activities.

There is a large number of children in the St. Louis County area that are cared for during the day in home and child care centers. The quality of care provided by the care givers along with specialized training and education contribute to the childs' ability to succeed in school. Participants need 12 training clock hours per year. There will be a variety of two hour workshops discussing various topics related to aspects of child development, administration, and other areas of concern in the child care setting.

Educational Programs for Parents and their Children

Parent education programs will be offered in St. Louis County under the joint sponsorship of University Outreach and Extension, Division of Family Services and the Department of Youth, Veterans and Aging. This is a new initiative. Data from Kids count 97 and the population census identify several areas of major concern regarding youth and families of St. Louis County. The programs will include parenting education for two age groups, youth 2-12 and 12-18. Parenting of teens will be initiated first then followed by the younger age group.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 100 parents will adopt one or more new parenting practices as a result of attending workshops sponsored by the coalition of agencies including University Outreach and Extension, Division of Family services and the Department of Youth, Veterans, and Aging.
2. 10 sites throughout the county will offer a parenting workshop

Baseline: In St. Louis County 24.9% of the population is under 17. Women working with youngest child under six is 65.9%. There were 1106 births to teens aged 15-19 in 1997.

Indicators:

• Total number of parents who attend parenting workshops, according to registration information.
• Total number of parents who indicate they adopted new practices as a result of participating in a parenting workshop. Information will be gathered by a follow-up survey.
• Total number of calls to the extension office requesting parenting information.
• Total number of sites where the parenting program is being offered.

 Educational Programs for Successful Aging

Programs will address various issues and concerns related to the aging process. Topics covering the successful aging process will be presented in workshops, newsletters and other ways to disseminate information from the Center on Aging Without Walls website.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 100 participants will enroll in a program.
2. 90 participants will report an increased knowledge on successful aging
3. 90 participants will adopt one or more recommendation offered in the workshop.

Baseline:

Presently there are 52.9% of the population in St. Louis county between 25-64. 65 and older there are 14.2%. Successful aging addresses issues and concerns across the continuum. At each stage of the aging process we encounter different concerns. Programs will be given to educate and enhance this aging process.

Indicators:

• Number of participants attending successful aging programs
• Number of participants that implement one or more of the recommendations offered through Successful Aging Programming.
• Number of requests for information from University Outreach and Extension.

Health and Wellness

Health and wellness were identified as priority issues in St. Louis County. Nutrition and food safety education is integral to health and well-being. An adequate and safe food supply and the utilization thereof to promote and protect health is determined at several levels, from government, to private sector, to the individual and their family. Outreach and Extension will remain involved at several levels to achieve maximum impact.

Comprehensive School Health Nutrition and Food Safety Education and Services

The Comprehensive School Health Nutrition and Food Safety Education program provides nutrition and food safety education training and resources for elementary and secondary teachers. The training and resources support school personnel as they use the nutrition principles and practices component of Missouri's Framework for Curriculum Development in Health Education and Physical Education to help students achieve the nutrition knowledge and performance standards of the Show-Me Standards. The training and resources also support the nutrition education component of Team Nutrition and the USDA School Meals Initiative for Healthy Children. Teachers and school food service personnel with training and resources are better able to link classroom nutrition education activities and school nutrition services in order to give students opportunities to practice healthy eating behaviors.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Teacher training will be provided in St. Louis County
2. At least 20 teachers and school foodservice personnel will take part in the training each year.
3. 75% of participating teachers will implement some new nutrition education activities into their curricula after the training.

Baseline:

This is a new program for St. Louis County.

Indicators:

• Number of teachers that take the workshop.
• Number of teachers that report inclusion of new nutrition education to their curricula.

A monthly food safety and preservation newsletter published April - October, workshops for volunteer food handlers, nutrition conferences and classes, classroom visits, individual consultations, media releases, and supporting educational materials are key program delivery strategies.

Measurable Objectives:

1. Increase by 50% each year the number of subscribers to the Quality for Keeps Newsletter.
2. 40% of the subscribers returning evaluations will report adopting one or more safe practices from the newsletter.
3. Twenty volunteer food handlers will attend a workshop of safe food handling each year.
4. Twenty nutrition and other professionals will attend a professionally accredited workshop each year.

Baseline:

• In 1998, fifty-one St. Louis County residents subscribed to the newsletter, which has been published for 12 years and consistently yields high marks for changing client food safety practices.
• A successful partnership with the Greater St. Louis Girl Scout Council has trained 50 volunteer leaders in safe quantity food handling to date.
• A column, written by Extension nutrition specialists on nutrition and food safety topics appears weekly in the Suburban Journals to most households in St. Louis County.
• Twelve nutrition professionals participated in a satellite-downlinked nutrition program in 1998, receiving continuing education credits from their professional organization.

Indicators:

• Numbers of St. Louis County subscribers to Quality for Keeps newsletter
• Numbers of subscribers to QFK who change food handling practices
• Number of food handlers that attend workshops.
• Responses to newsletter columns to county extension offices

The (FNEP) is designed to reach individuals who receive or are eligible for food stamps. It also includes youth, the elderly & pregnant teens who are eligible for federal sponsored nutrition programs. FNEP teaches skills and behaviors to help participants improve their nutritional status, well being and develop a healthier lifestyle.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 100 participants will enroll in the program, and at least 60 will receive a certificate of graduation.
2. Sixty (60) participants will develop new skills and learned behaviors to improve their well being.
3. Participants will report adoption of one or more practices to improve the management of their food stamps.

Baseline Data:

Missouri provides a maximum of $292.00 in cash monthly for a family of three, far below the Federal Poverty level of $1,111 per month. Food stamps could provide up to $315.00 additional monthly to the family. According to Kids Count, St. Louis County had increased numbers of children on free/reduced lunches.

Indicators:

• Number of participants who graduated from the Family Nutrition Program.
• Number of participants who adopted one or more practices to improve the management of their food stamps.
• Number of participants who made one or more changes in their lifestyle, that contributes to their well-being.

Resource management programs help individuals and families improve their decision making abilities regarding financial and non-financial resources. The programs are done in coordination with community agencies, schools and local coalitions.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 200 participants will attend the programs
2. 150 participants will adopt resource/ financial management practices recommended in the program.
3. 100 participants will re-evaluate current financial situation and make needed adjustments

Indicators:

• Number of participants showing increased knowledge through program evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence and control over their resources and financial management practices through the program evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the program evaluation process.

Life-skills

These programs teach participants basic survival skills, which promote self-sufficiency and enhance individual's abilities to participate in consumer markets.

Measurable Objectives:

1. 100 participants will attend the programs.
2. 80 participants will adopt basic money management practices.
3. 50 participants will develop budgets and/or establish or re-establish credit.

Indicators:

• Number of participants showing increased knowledge through program evaluation process.
• Number of participants reporting increased self-confidence in money-management practices.
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of one or more recommended practices through the program evaluation process.

Program Theme #4: ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Master Gardener Program

The St. Louis Master Gardener Program provides 50 hours of horticultural training to volunteers. Participants agree to give back 50 hours of volunteer service in many various approved outreach programs.

Measurable objectives:

1. A core Master Gardener Group will develop their own bylaws and policies and procedures manual.
2. The core group will be served by a local Steering Committee that will set both short and long-term goals for educational programs.
3. New volunteers will be trained in 1999 and two locations in the East Central Region.
4. Continue to certify volunteers will achieve an Advance Master Gardener Status
5. Master Gardeners will form committees to recruit and retain new volunteers, to review curriculum, to revamp their monthly newsletter to be more educational, and to develop new and strengthen existing opportunities.
6. A measurable increase in outreach hours will be seen.
7. Other Master Gardener Programs will be started in neighboring counties.

Baseline:

This program is now entering its 12^th year. In 1998, volunteers gave 18821 hours, which was 12%, more than what was given in 1997. The program is rapidly expanding with a growth rate of 20% per year, which poses a continual challenge to train and accommodate these new volunteers.

Indicators:

• One Hundred Volunteers will complete the Basic MG Training
• Thirty Volunteers will be trained to support Gateway Greening in its community beautification efforts
• Fifty volunteers will complete Advanced Certification
• Master Gardeners will develop and support at least three new successful outreach programs targeted at neighborhoods, the general public, schools, and the retail horticulture industry.
• At least two new MG groups will be started and maintained in two outlying counties.
• Increase outreach efforts at large community events by making the MG Program visible with signage and informational pieces that explain the program.
• Increase the number of horticulture classes given from an average of 87 per year to 100 per year.
• Expand participation of Master Gardeners at other organizational sites such as city and county parks and schools, and SLCC- Meramec.
• Volunteer service hours will increase by a minimum of 10% per year.
• The total MG group will grow to 300 people by 2003.

Market Development Technical Assistance

Objective 1: Provide direct assistance to businesses, governments, solid waste management districts and individuals.

1. Counsel clients on issues of supply and demand, market plan development, cooperative marketing, and other recycling market development issues.
2. Provide research and/or referral for clients on regulatory, engineering, marketing, and other issues specific to furthering market development in Missouri.
3. Utilize the statewide University Outreach & Extension network to increase awareness and expand access to the Missouri Market Development Program (MMDP).
4. Support efforts of the Missouri Office of Administration and participating agencies in expanding the purchase of recycled content products and recycling services in state government.

Objective 2: Assist the MMDP in identifying businesses for financial incentives for the manufacture of products from recovered materials or processing recovered materials into usable feed stocks for manufacturing.

1. Assist prospective applicants in completing financial assistance applications, upon request.
2. Review completed applications on behalf of the MMDP Steering Committee.
3. Conduct site visit to applicant facilities prior to Steering Committee meeting.
4. Report on site visit to Steering Committee.
5. Review and comment on requests for proposals (RFPs) developed by MMDP staff and Steering Committee.
6. Review and comment on proposals submitted in response to RFPs.
7. Conduct site visit to MMDP project recipients after installation of equipment associated with the market development project.
8. Assist businesses in identifying and accessing financial assistance from sources other than the MMDP.

Objective 3: Provide information on recycled materials markets, recycled contents products, waste exchanges, pollution prevention strategies, and other issues affecting Missouri.

1. Publish the Missouri Recycling Markets Bulletin six times per year featuring recycled materials market prices, trends, and conditions in the Midwest and Missouri for at least six recyclable materials. The Bulletin will also feature a different marketing issue with each publication. Conduct a reader profile and interest survey.
2. Assist MDNR, EIERA, and MORA in the development of websites and databases containing the above information.

Objective 4: Represent and actively promote the MMDP through presentations, exhibits, and information dissemination to state businesses, governments, solid waste districts, and recycling organizations. Report on MMDP activities at meetings of the Solid Waste Advisory Board, waste district planners, waste district boards and advisory councils, regional market development organizations, economic development organizations, trade groups and associations, Missouri Recycling Association, Mid-America Council of Recycling Officials, and the National Recycling Coalition, as appropriate.

Objective 5: Identify and expand opportunities for investment in Missouri recycling businesses.

1. Explore the feasibility of holding a Missouri recycling investment forum as a stand-alone event or in conjunction with an existing conference.
2. Recruit successful recycling entrepreneurs from Missouri for the Recycling Investment Forum scheduled for Cincinnati in conjunction with the 1999 National Recycling Congress.
3. Assist businesses selected for participation in the Forum in the development of presentations and/or exhibits.

Objective 6: Support the MMDP initiative to increase awareness and purchase of recycled-content products.

I n t r o d u c t i o n

The Ste. Genevieve County University Outreach and Extension Center is the gateway to the four campuses of the University of Missouri System and Lincoln University. Through a unique partnership among federal, state, and local governments, University Outreach and Extension provides local citizens with research-based resources for programs that address the community’s concerns. The Ste. Genevieve County Extension Council, as established by state statute, is a partner with University Outreach and Extension and USDA-CSREES in the development, implementation and evaluation of Extension educational programs.

B a c k g r o u n d

Ste. Genevieve County encompasses the oldest permanent settlement in Missouri, and indeed in all U.S. lands west of the Mississippi River. Early settlers were drawn to the area by the agricultural possibilities and the presence of salt deposits along the Saline Creek, used for preserving meat and skins. At the turn of the millenium Ste. Genevieve continues to draw new inhabitants, from young families seeking a ‘small-town’ atmosphere to raise their children to retirees from who appreciate the cultural significance of the community. This once homogenous community is now defined by its social, cultural, economic, and religious diversity.

In recent years Ste. Genevieve County has maintained relative economic health. Census data shows a drop in the number of poor persons in the county (down from 12% in 1989 to 9.7% in 1996) and in the number of poor children (decreased from 12% in 1989 to 9.7% in 1996). Typically the median household income is fairly high, standing at $34,314 in 1996, and unemployment figures are low—around 4-5%.

However, we are not without our challenges, particularly where our children are concerned. The number of children receiving public mental health services for serious emotional disorders has increased dramatically, from 41 children in 1994 to 79 in 1997. Juvenile crime rates have been relatively steady, but more youth aged 15-19 are dying from violent deaths. There has been an increase in the reporting of probable-cause child abuse/neglect and (not surprisingly given that fact) an increase in the number of children removed from their homes.

Some challenges aren’t easily reflected in facts and figures. This community can be characterized as caring and committed, but also as contentious and resistant to change. Events like the flooding of 1993 and 1995 have clearly impacted the social fabric of the community, when neighbors banded together to get through the crisis then, in many cases, turned on each other in the trauma of the aftermath.

R a t i o n a l e

The Ste. Genevieve County Extension Council recognizes that the local community, including individuals, families, organizations, and the environment that surrounds them, is undergoing significant changes. From the floods to the new citizen-created community center, a wide-range of circumstances and opportunities have re-shaped the economy, society, culture, and environment of this historic community in a relatively short period of time.

Over the next four years, University Outreach and Extension will provide educational programs designed to empower the Ste. Genevieve community, increasing citizens’ ability to recognize and effectively address issues. Specifically, we will focus on four community goals: strengthening the local economy, creating a healthy environment, supporting family health and safety, and increasing community capacity.

These four goals were selected as a result of the plan of work development process in Ste. Genevieve County. The process began in the fall of 1998, when the local Extension Council began gathering information from a variety of sources, including:

• Direct input from local citizens gained through a public forum, media appeals, and targeted surveys
• Indirect citizen input through surveys and assessments conducted by other organizations in the past few years, such as the 1996 CHART community health assessment and a 1999 survey of the needs of low-income residents by East-Missouri Action Agency
• A review of the major socio-economic trends facing the county
• An assessment of current Outreach and Extension programs

The gathered information was used to develop a list of major program areas to address the issues and opportunities facing Ste. Genevieve County.

H o w  t o  R e a d  t h e  P r o g r a m  P l a n

This plan of work has a slightly different structure than the previous plan of work, focusing on community goals rather than programs. In our thinking, the programs are the means, not the ends. Programs and activities should build on and relate to each other, providing a comprehensive approach towards attaining community goals. Readers familiar with the previous plan of work will also notice that this plan is significantly longer. The number of staff serving the county hasn’t changed, but this plan has a great deal more input from staff headquartered outside Ste. Genevieve County than in previous years. Overall, we have found that this integrated approach to Extension programming is more natural and efficient than traditional component-based approaches.

To help the reader understand the format of the plan, the sections are defined as follows:

Activities – are the means of meeting the objective. While they may sometimes seem obvious, including them in the plan helps us think about our capabilities in a realistic manner. It’s one thing to say we’re going to do something, but another to actually know the specifics of how we can do it.

Indicators – these are how we will measure progress towards achieving the objective and attaining the goal. Progress on indicators will be reported in the annual report each spring and the findings used to modify the plan of work as needed.

Baseline Data – this is the information we start with, where the measurement begins

At the end of this document appear the appendices referred to in the body of the plan.

Goal  I

To strengthen the local economy

Objective 1: Increase community economic potential

The Ste. Genevieve County economy has been relatively steady for the past few years, supported by a stable industrial base and a diverse range of small businesses. Unemployment is consistently low, small businesses are on the increase, and recent economic development efforts (such as the new industrial park) have ensured continued growth. However, local residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the amount of retail opportunities, and still shop a great deal outside the county.

Like the people in most communities, local residents tend to take a rather mystical view towards development—things "just happen," like businesses appearing or disappearing. Consumers don’t tend to think about the connection between their personal spending habits and the health of the local economy. Residents in the City of Ste. Genevieve may mourn the loss of the small corner grocery stores that once dotted the town, but may not recognize that their decision to shop at the Wal-Mart in Festus probably contributed to their demise. Most people recognize that not all ‘growth’ is conducive to a healthy community, but don’t understand the power they have to influence that growth.

Efforts in this area will focus on instilling in local residents and leaders a sense of control over the development of the Ste. Genevieve County community. If history and a ‘small town’ atmosphere’ are important, they can be preserved within healthy economic growth.

1. At a minimum, staff will maintain contact with partnerships and efforts to promote a healthy local economy, providing resources and support as needed. Examples of those partnerships include Chambers of Commerce, the French Colonial Merchants Association, the Industrial Development Corporation, the Foundation for the Restoration of Ste. Genevieve (a historic preservation organization), and the Ste. Genevieve Convention and Visitors Bureau
2. The feasibility of instituting a business retention and expansion program will be explored
3. A partnership with the new economic director (slated to be on board in the fall of 1999) will be formed, and collaborative activities developed
4. Local industry will continue to receive the ‘Creating Quality’ newsletter, and the newsletter will be posted on the Internet web site of the local Extension office
5. Information on starting and managing a small business will be provided to interested citizens through a program available on CD-ROM or through the Internet (public access to the Internet is available through the Extension office, or the East-Missouri Action Agency, and soon through Ozark Regional Library)
6. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number and type of organizations relative to this goal that staff participate in
• Trends in County sales tax revenues, unemployment rates, poverty rates (important in determining under-employment)
• Changes in attitudes about economic development, as measured by at least two studies during the four years of this plan of work—one early in 2000 and one near the end of 2003. There will be three primary target audiences for the studies: local leadership, business operators, and consumers. The study will likely be in survey format, but could be focus groups or interviews if resources allow.
• Number of people requesting information about starting or managing a business
• Amount and type of collaborative activities produced through partnerships (such as with the new economic development director)
• Number of businesses starting up and moving into the community, as measured through local business licenses

Baseline Data:

Objective 2: Support workforce preparation and adult education efforts

University Outreach & Extension will support and provide adult education activities geared towards ensuring that participants are adequately prepared for and competitive in the workplace.

1. Facilitate efforts to explore adult education needs in the community, including among employers
2. Participate in community efforts to secure and support adult education activities
3. Provide instructors, materials, and/or programs geared towards workforce preparation and development in partnership with other organizations
4. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of persons involved in efforts and the entities they represent, as determined by meeting or activity attendance and requests to be added to the mailing list--this information will be kept in a log in the file
• Amount and type of adult education opportunities available within the county, assessed annually
• The number of people taking advantage of those opportunities, as reported by the providers
• The number of county residents commuting to jobs in other counties, as reported in census data
• Employer satisfaction levels with available workforce, the number of local versus non-local people employed in the county, and changes in educational requirements of local employers, all measured in conjunction with the economic study outlined in Objective #1
• The number of people at each level of education (high school graduates on up) as reported in census data

A grassroots committee consisting of approximately 30 local individuals has been spearheading efforts to develop local adult education opportunities since 1998. Interviews have been conducted with the ten largest employers (determined by the number of employees) regarding their educational needs, preferences, and opportunities. Partly in response to the efforts of this committee, the R-2 School District is once again offering adult education courses in conjunction with Perryville Vocational School. A tax issue passed by voters in April 1999 will fund the construction of a new interactive television (ITV) lab in the high school, which the school district has promised to make available outside of school hours for adult education activities.

Objective 3: Encourage agriculture profitability and viability

Ag profitability and viability programs will bring new practices and management strategies to Ste. Genevieve County producers, maximizing profits and encouraging the continued sustainability of family farms. In a recent local agriculture survey (see Appendix A), some farmers indicated interest in a variety of topics which may, or may not, be a direct result of the recent farm crisis. With low commodity prices, in some cases lower than any other time in history, farmers may be feeling the pressure to explore other alternatives in agriculture. In the survey, some of the topics receiving strong support for educational programming include livestock health, marketing, soil fertility, disease management, alternative farming, value-added agriculture, and ag education for youth. There are five sub-objectives in this section: ag education for youth is included with other youth programming later in this plan.

1. Annual Soils and Crops Conference

1. Bring people in the farming community together and facilitate networking opportunities among farmers
2. Provide current information on a diverse range of agriculture subjects through a variety of mediums (displays, presentations, etc.)
3. Report to participants on activities from NRCS, FSA, UO/E, and SWCD

• Number of persons attending the conference
• Number of participants expressing satisfaction with the type and diversity of topics provided as reported in the evaluations
• Overall satisfaction level with the Conference as reported in the evaluations
• Number of participants requesting additional information from presenters, exhibitors, or Extension personnel
• Number of participants who report the adoption of practices learned through the SCC, as reported in follow-up activities

1. Bring people in the farming community together and facilitate networking opportunities among farmers
2. Provide and promote marketing and niche marketing for organic produce
3. Provide and promote alternative commodities, and value-added concepts through a variety of mediums (displays, presentations, etc.)

• Number of persons attending the conference
• Number of participants expressing satisfaction with the type and diversity of topics provided as reported in the evaluations
• Overall satisfaction level with the Conference as reported in the evaluations
• Number of participants requesting additional information from presenters and/or Extension personnel
• Number of participants who report the adoption of practices learned as reported in follow-up activities

3. Row crop production

1. Bring people in the farming community together and facilitate networking opportunities among farmers
2. Provide and promote information on marketing and/or niche marketing, row crop disease prevention, soil fertility, crop plant geometry, weed control, and preventing crop damage from wildlife concepts through a variety of presenters and mediums (displays, presentations, etc.) at programming events
3. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of persons attending programs
• Number of persons learning profitable production practices as reported by evaluations
• Number of participants expressing satisfaction with the type and diversity of topics provided as reported in evaluations
• Overall satisfaction level with the activity as reported in the evaluations.
• Number of participants requesting additional information from presenters and/or Extension personnel
• Number of participants who report the adoption of practices learned as reported in follow-up activities

4. Livestock production

1. Bring people in the farming community together and facilitate networking opportunities among farmers
2. Provide and promote information on marketing and/or niche marketing, soil fertility, pasture weed control, animal health, forage management, toxic plants to livestock, and Management Intensive Grazing concepts through a variety of presenters and mediums (displays, presentations, etc.) at programming events
3. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of persons attending programs
• Number of persons learning profitable production practices as reported by evaluations
• Number of participants expressing satisfaction with the type and diversity of topics provided as reported in evaluations
• Overall satisfaction level with the activity as reported in the evaluations.
• Number of participants requesting additional information from presenters and/or Extension personnel
• Number of participants who report the adoption of practices learned as reported in follow-up activities

5. Keeping agriculturally active families competitive

1. Offer and promote soil testing
2. Provide and promote private pesticide applicator license training
3. Provide biological (weed, insect, and plant disease) identification services
4. Provide a newsletter on current agriculture information
5. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Rate and amount of soil tests processed annually
• Number of private pesticide applicators licensed
• Number of requests for biological identification services processed annually
• Results of the ag newsletter evaluation

To create a healthy environment

Objective 1: Watershed Management

The growth and development in Ste. Genevieve County, combined with changes in agricultural usage of land, have resulted in an increased potential for flooding, stream-bank erosion, increased silting in surface waters, and agricultural chemical, nutrient, and soil runoff. With so much water running through and by Ste. Genevieve County, it is vital that agricultural producers increase their utilization of environmentally sound practices in handling livestock waste, fertilizers and pesticides, and minimizing soil erosion to reduce the risk of point and non-point source pollution. Homeowners need to learn about safe septic/sewage systems, disposal of solid waste, and handling of household hazardous waste.

1. Conduct a Watershed Management Workshop. Invited participants will include local citizens, the Ste. Genevieve County Commissioners, and representatives of GRAND (Greater Rivers Alliance for Natural Resource Districts), NRCS (Natural resource Conservation Service), MDC (Missouri Department Conservation), and University Outreach & Extension
2. Provide supplemental information and materials on an as-requested basis
3. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of workshop participants reporting that they engaged in environmentally sound practices prior to the workshop, as reported in the workshop evaluation
• Number of persons attending the workshop and the entities they represent
• Number of participants expressing satisfaction with the type and diversity of topics in the workshop, as reported in the evaluation
• Overall satisfaction level with the workshop, as reported in the evaluation
• Number of workshop participants requesting additional information from presenters and/or Extension personnel
• Number of participants who report the adoption of new practices or techniques as a result of the workshop, as reported in follow-up activities
• Baseline water quality data collected at significant sites (such as the Establishment Creek, River Aux Vasse, Saline Creek, and North and South arm of the Gabouri creeks) and compared to data gathered at later points in time

Objective 2: Coordinate efforts to identify and address environmental issues

Environmental issues are a growing concern of Ste. Genevieve County residents, as evidenced by the high priority given to them by participants in a public forum about this plan of work. As the community grows, the impact on the environment is increased. For example, suburban and urban developments in Ste. Genevieve County combined with soil erosion have created increased flooding and creek silting potential, including with the North and South Gabouri creeks that pass straight through the City of Ste. Genevieve.

The organizations addressing these issues, including UO/E, can maximize the use of their resources by working together. Extension staff will take the lead in forming a multi-agency environmental task force in the county whose purpose will be to exchange information, collaborate on identifying issues and opportunities, and conduct multi-agency programs. Potential areas for cooperation include hazardous waste collection, environmental education, recycling, and water quality.

1. Partner with the Soil and Water Conservation District, the Ste. Genevieve County Health Department, and the Farm Service Organization in instituting the task force, including identifying other potential partners
2. Draft a statement of purpose and scope of work with other task force members
3. Determine potential areas for cooperative programming
4. Exchange and distribute information on issues and opportunities with the task force partners

• Number of programs and activities generated by the task force
• Number of participants and the organizations they represent in the task force
• Number of participants and the entities/population they represent
• Number of environmental programs and activities conducted by at least two members of the task force in partnership
• Estimates of the efficacy of information sharing, as evidenced by entities utilizing information provided by the task force (such as writing a grant proposal)

Objective 3: Provide the means to ensure a healthy home environment

There are many issues associated with maintaining a healthy home environment, and it seems that researchers are discovering new threats and tactics all the time—so much new information that it can be difficult for the average citizen to keep up with. The programs and activities in this area—there are three sub-objectives—will provide participants with the skills and knowledge necessary for creating a home environment conducive to good family health.

1. Home*A*Syst Program

1. Promote and implement the Home*A*Syst program, providing instruction in personal management of environmental issues
2. Provide supplemental resources and materials on an as-requested basis
3. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of participants in the program, and the number of households they represent
• Number of homeowners reporting the adoption of at least two practices learned through the program, as reported in follow-up activities
• Number of participants reporting increased knowledge of environmental risks, based on program evaluations
• Number of participants reporting that they intend to have their drinking water tested
• Amount of water testing being conducted annually by Extension and the Ste. Genevieve County Health Department
• Incidence of carbon monoxide poisoning, lead poisoning, and respiratory diseases triggered by environmental contaminants, as reported by law to the Ste. Genevieve County Health Department

2. The Healthy Home – Indoor Air Quality

1. Promote and implement a program providing instruction in reducing health risks from indoor pollution (such as carbon monoxide and biological contaminants)
2. Provide environmental education activities in local school and through local media. Those activities will be coordinated through the new environmental task force
3. Provide supplemental resources and materials on an as-requested basis
4. Promote indoor air quality through the use of local media, such as providing a video tape to the local cable access channel
5. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of program participants and number of households they represent
• Number of participants reporting increased knowledge of potential health hazards in their home’s indoor air, as reported in program evaluations
• Number of participants reporting an intention to adopt one more practices learned through the program, as reported in the evaluations
• Incidence of carbon monoxide poisoning and respiratory diseases triggered by environmental contaminants in the county, as reported by law to the Ste. Genevieve County Health Department

3. Conduct water testing clinics

1. Provision of water testing service at least twice during the four years covered by the plan of work
2. Provision during the clinic and through the Internet web pages of information on healthy alternatives to hard water and resources to alleviate bacterial contamination

• Number of participants having their water tested in the clinic
• Number of participants found to have harmful water
• Incidence of heavy metal poisoning and pesticide poisoning, reported by law to the Ste. Genevieve County Health Department.
• Incidence of coliform bacteria found in water samples tested by the Health Department

To support family health and safety

Objective 1: Provide information on safely preparing food for large groups

Parish picnics, festivals, and other events in Ste. Genevieve County draw large crowds of people each year, most of who will take advantage of foods prepared by local organizations. Cooking for such large groups, particularly in summer heat, presents unique health-related challenges for the cooks. The ‘Occasional Quantity Cook’ program teaches safe methods of preparing, serving, and storing large quantities of food for occasions such as these.

1. Promote and implement a workshop, The Occasional Quantity Cook, on the safe preparation and handling of food for large groups of people. Conduct the workshop every other year beginning in 2000 unless enrollment levels or demand deem differently
2. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of participants in the program
• Number of organizations and entities represented by participants
• Copies of published articles
• The incidence of food-poisoning illnesses in the County, as reported by law to the Ste. Genevieve County Health Department

Objective 2: Encourage the operation of safe childcare businesses

A significant number of children in Ste. Genevieve County are cared for in daycare centers and home-based daycare. The quality of care provided and the future success of the children in school is related to the abilities of the child care provider. Daycare provider training will include current information on child growth and development.

1. Explore coordinating or partnering childcare education activities with those conducted by the Ste. Genevieve County Health Department and Ste. Genevieve County Memorial Hospital
2. Promote and implement daycare provider training
3. Provide supplemental information on early childhood education on an as-requested basis
4. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of program participants, and number completing the course requirements
• Number of participants reporting increased knowledge of safe and legal child care practices as reported in the program evaluations
• Number of participants reporting the adoption of recommended practices, as reported in follow-up surveys
• Licensed child care capacity in the County, as reported in the annual Kids Count report

1. Promote and implement the Building Strong Families program following the program’s revision (underway on a state-wide level at the writing of this plan)
2. Promote and implement educational programs for parents
3. Provide supplemental information and materials on an as-requested basis
4. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of program participants
• Number of participants reporting increased knowledge of skills to build family strengths as reported in follow-up evaluations
• Incidence of children receiving public mental health services for serious emotional disorders, as documented in the annual Kids Count report
• Incidence of probable cause child abuse/neglect reports, as documented in the annual Kids Count report
• Annual high school dropout rate

Objective 4: Promote safe and affordable housing

The availability of safe, affordable housing is essential to the growth and stability of a community. Programs that help citizens obtain safe, affordable housing, develop home maintenance and financial management skills to protect their investment, and protect the existing housing stock increase the overall value of the community. The activities covered in this objective will allow local citizens to increase their ability to successfully manage their home and personal finances.

1. Provide information and training on home buying and financial management to potential homeowners at least once during this plan of work period
2. Provide information and training on financial management and home maintenance and repair to homeowners at least once during this plan of work period
3. Provide information on supplemental programs being conducted in nearby counties or through the TCRC center at Mineral Area College, such as the HOME (Home Ownership Made Easier) program for first-time home buyers
4. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of new homes built in the county by program participants
• Number of homes purchased in the county by program participants
• Number of citizens requesting home buying information from UO/E
• Number of participants reporting purchasing a home, as reported in follow-up evaluations
• Number of participants requesting home maintenance and repair information
• Number of participants reporting increased knowledge of home maintenance skills, as reported in follow-up evaluations

Objective 5: Promote farm and home safety

Many people each year are injured in farm and home accidents that could have been easily prevented. These accidents not only impact the individual directly affected, but they can have a devastating and lasting impact on the whole family. Building on the success of Farm Safety Days held in many Missouri counties, local UO/E staff will explore implementing a similar or expanded program.

1. Explore programming options for conducting farm and home safety activities relative to all county residents
2. Conduct at least on farm and/or home safety activity annually
3. Provide information and materials on farm and/or home safety on an as-requested basis
4. Explore options for conducting a farm and/or home safety program with 4-H youth
5. Provide a home and farm safety checklist to participants at the Ste. Genevieve County Fair, the annual Soils and Crops Conference
6. Follow-up with a random sample of those receiving the checklist, asking if they used it and found it to be helpful. The brief telephone survey will also ask whether or not the recipient owns or rents their home
7. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of participants in farm and home safety programs and activities.
• The number of people reporting an increased knowledge of ways of eliminating household and farm hazards, as reported in an exit survey at the activity and through a follow-up to the checklist
• The incidence of farm and home accidents in the county, as reported in a survey of the general public conducted at the annual county fair. There are not currently any entities collecting this information.

To increase community capacity and resiliency

One of the primary purposes of Extension is to increase the community’s ability to successfully identify and address issues in a manner that allows the community to become increasingly sustainable and resilient (able to manage change effectively). A sustainable community is not one that stays the same, but one that thrives and grows without using more resources than it produces, thus not inhibiting the ability of future generations to thrive. Not surprisingly, the programs in this section often cross specialization lines.

Objective 1: Facilitate leadership development and citizen involvement

Traditionally Ste. Genevieve County has been an isolated community—geographically, economically, socially, and culturally. In this enclave decision making became the responsibility of a small number of people, a system reinforced by limited citizen communication and involvement. The dramatic changes of the past few years served as a catalyst for a change in the community’s leadership traditions, leading to something of a leadership revolution as more and more citizens learned not only that they can become involved, but that they can make a difference.

A new leadership program will provide local citizens with knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience in effective community leadership appropriate to a variety of settings, including local organizations, churches, local government, civic groups, and more.

1. Establish a planning committee comprised of a diverse group of local citizens to develop the leadership program
2. Promote and implement the leadership program on an annual basis beginning in the year 2000
3. Maximize the use of resources by partnering with related activities, such as the organizational development workshop series
4. Provide resources and support to new and existing community leaders as requested
5. Evaluate each program and revise as needed
6. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of program participants by home county enrolled in each program
• Number of organizations and types of entities represented in each program
• Satisfaction ratings of the program as reported by participants in the evaluations
• Amount and type of additional roles and activities participants choose to pursue after or during the program, as reported in the evaluation and in a follow-up survey
• Amount and type of activities generated by participants as a direct result of the program, as reported in the follow-up survey

Objective 2: Support the healthy development and functioning of local organizations

Healthy and strong community organizations serve a critical function in Ste. Genevieve County, addressing high-priority issues for local citizens. A new series of workshops, combined with other activities and support, will help local organizations fulfill their missions and remain effective.

1. Plan, promote and implement 2-4 workshops per year on topics of high priority to local organizations (determined through interaction with a variety of local organizations). Topics may include facilitating and holding effective meetings, working with volunteers, fundraising, goal-setting and planning.
2. Provide technical assistance with strategic planning, goal-setting, and mission identification
3. Facilitate meetings and processes as requested
4. Facilitate the conduction of assessments, surveys, and other means of gathering information needed to make decisions
5. Provide information on organizational management, such as following Missouri Sunshine Laws, drafting bylaws, or resolving conflicts
6. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number and type of requests for assistance
• Successful implementation of programs and initiatives created out of information gathering activities, such as community attitude surveys
• Number of participants gaining new knowledge and skills as the result of attending a workshop, as reported in participant evaluations
• Number of participants utilizing new skills, knowledge or resources as a result of attending a workshop, as reported during follow-up

Objective 3: Promote youth development

Through a wide variety of 4-H youth programs, University Outreach & Extension in Ste. Genevieve County will provide a variety of opportunities for youth to gain the skills and abilities necessary to be competent, caring and healthy members of their families and community.

1. Provide youth development opportunities through 4-H club activities, projects, camp, and various state and national 4-H learning experiences
2. Provide simple youth development opportunities through topic-centered learning activities such as Talking with TJ (conflict resolution), Streets to Streams (water quality), and Show Me Character
3. Provide support to youth-focused organizations in the community such as the Ste. Genevieve Youth Council, SADD, and Community 2000
4. Provide information to youth on work, careers, recreation and other opportunities through an annual Youth Opportunities Fair, held with at least Freshmen and Sophomores of both high schools
5. Facilitate environmental awareness through the implementation of a gardening program for youth
6. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• The number of local youth participating in each 4-H club
• The number of 4-H youth developing at least one leadership skill (such as self understanding, communication, getting along with others, and working with groups) as assessed by adult leaders and reported by the youth
• The number and type (as in rural or urban, specialty or general) of 4-H clubs
• The amount of community service work completed by 4-H youth by club as reported in club logs
• County 4-H enrollment data
• The impact of activities produced by youth-focused organizations, as evidenced by attendance figures, the number and type of entities involved, and the local rates of drug and alcohol abuse

Objective 4: Facilitate community cooperation

As Ste. Genevieve County grows and changes, the need for cooperation at every level is critical if resources are to be used effectively and efficiently. University Outreach and Extension will work with elected officials, county institutions, organizations, and residents to foster county-wide cooperation. A community’s economic stability depends on community cooperation and wise use of resources.

1. Work with elected officials, county institutions, organizations, and residents to promote inter-organizational communication and county-wide cooperation
2. Provide assistance and information on building coalitions, identifying and addressing community issues, developing networks, and other means of mobilizing community resources to address community needs
3. Participate in at least one inter-agency organization to facilitate communication across entities
4. Participate in the development of a community resource directory, including placing that directory on the Community Connections Internet website and keeping that information current
5. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

Indicators:

• Number of inter-agency organizations UO/E staff participate in
• Amount of educational and technical assistance given to community groups
• Existence of an up-to-date community resource directory and accurate listings on the Community Connections Internet website
• Number of requests for assistance and the outcome of those activities

Baseline Data:

Objective 5: Assist farm families in crisis

With the wild swings of agricultural commodity prices in recent years some farm families may be experiencing difficult times. Extension staff often serve as a first point of contact for farm families in crisis, regardless of the nature or scope of that crisis.

1. Provide support, resources and information relative to farm families resolving their crisis situation through the Farm First initiative
2. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

• Number of requests for assistance
• Successful resolution (as defined by the family) of the crisis

Objective 6: Develop local Master Gardeners

The Master Gardener Program provides 30 hours of intensive instruction in horticulture. In return, participants agree to volunteer for a minimum of 30 hours in through providing educational programs to home gardeners or those who wish to produce for farmer’s markets, answering horticulture calls, and helping develop special projects for non-profit organizations. Because of the gardening interest in Ste. Genevieve County, the program was implemented in 1998.

Activities:

1. Training of new Master Gardeners will occur at least twice during this plan of work, with at least ten participants completing the course
2. Broker opportunities for community service
3. Provide on-going support and assistance
4. Collaborate with Master Gardener graduates on the development of the next program
5. Provide additional support and guidance through articles in Extension newsletters, local newspapers, and on Extension web pages

Baseline:

As a result of the 1998 program, there are ten trained Master Gardeners currently involved in Ste. Genevieve County. The initial sign-up count for training in 1998 was 23 people from Ste. Genevieve County, however several participants cancelled because the training was held in Farmington, 30 miles away.

Objective 7: Develop tools to measure community sustainability

As mentioned earlier in this plan, community ‘sustainability’ refers to a community’s ability to thrive without depleting its resources, and hence not depriving future generations of their ability to thrive. As a means to encourage activities that increase the community’s sustainability, Extension staff will partner with staff from the MU Department of Rural Sociology on the development of tools to measure the real impact of change, efforts to address local issues, and the efficacy of principles employed in community building.

1. Partner with staff from UO/E and the MU Department of Rural Sociology on developing a process for designing a ‘community report card’ (set of locally relevant indicators)
2. Work with local leaders and citizens on implementing that process. Indicators included in the community report card will be measured at least annually and reported to the community at large through local media
3. With partners, explore options for evaluating the impact of change on the community

• Existence of a planning process developed by the Extension/Rural Development partnership
• Evidence of the implementation of that process, such as meeting minutes
• Existence of a final tool
• The level of support for the initiative, as evidenced by the number of people involved, public reactions, and the amount of activities initiated as a result of the initiative

(22 respondants/200 surveys mailed)

Farm status: Full time__10__ Part time__12__

Acres you farm: 0-99 acres - 5 Own: 0-99 acres - 6 rent: 0-99 acres - 2

100-499 - 9 100-499 - 8 100-499 - 2

500-999 - 3 500-999 - 4 500-999 - 4

>1000 - 7 >1000 - 2 >1000 - 2

Livestock type: cattle: 21 (beef 21, dairy 0) swine: 2 horses: 1 sheep: 2 goats: 0

Other – 1 (timber) 1(alfalfa/clover) 3(hay)

5 Manure Management
12 Animal Health
11 Marketing
8 Value Added*
7 Feed Rations/Nutrition
2 Beef Cattle
7 Rotational Grazing School
11 Forage Management
10 Pasture Weed Control
2 Horses
2 Animal Health
3 Forage Management
1 Pasture Weed Control

7 - Row Crops (corn, soybean, wheat, sorghum)

5 Soybean Plant Geometry
4 Insect Management
11 Soil Fertility
4 Replant Decisions
7 Fungi/DiseaseManagement
4 Soybean Cyst Nematode
7 Weed Control
11 Marketing
5 Niche Marketing
7 Value Added
3 Identity Preserved/Designer Crops
1 Precision Agriculture

2 - Alternative Farming

5 Niche marketing for organic farming
3 Aquatic Agriculture Opportunities

3 - Youth Education

7 General Agriculture
7 Farm Safety
2 Basic Plant Geometry*
2 Plant Ecology*

A p p e n d i x B:      1 9 9 9 S o i l s a n d C r o p s E v a l u a t i o n

1. How did you learn about this conference? (69 responses to the question - some answered in more than 1 blank)

Extension Newsletter __56_____Newspaper ___16____Radio ___3____Friend ____1____

Other___3____________________________________________________________________________

69 Timing of the event  1 (1)        2 3 (13)        4 (34)       5 (21)
66 Facility   1 (1)   2 3 (3)    4 (32)       5 (30)
69 Speakers 1 (1)    2 3 (6)     4 (26)      5 (36)
64 Activity "Picking Your Brain"     1 (1)       2 3 (15)     4 (22)       5 (23)
70 Dinner 1 (1)     2 3 (1)     4 (13)       5 (55)
68 Overall Conference 1 2 (1)       3 (8)       4 (40)      5 (19)

picking your brain (4)
future of farming and youth involvement (1)
dinner (11)
Mel (37)
Mel & Kent (5)
everything (2)

other ways & crops to produce (1) Evening programs (1)
booths and displays(8) Report info to attendees (1)
activities (4) Everything was OK (2)
panel discussions (1)
shorten speaker talks (2)

How Future Farms can sustain themselves (1) small farm topics (3)
genetics (1) Specialty crop farming (5)
caves (1) Value-added products (2)
organic farming(2) Home gardening (1)
marketing (2) up to date info (1)
cattle – EPD (1) pasture improvement (1)
alternative farming (1)
Who to contact and how to get started in this new agriculture (1)

Friday night was better than other week night (1)
good meeting (5)good meal (4)
involve the youth (1)