COLUMBIA, Mo. – A recently completed assessment of University of Missouri Extension found that with an annual investment of $86 million (2016), MU Extension generated dividends totaling nearly $950 million.

The findings are part of a report developed by TEConomy Partners LLC. The report and other documents from a statewide needs assessment for MU Extension are available at https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/mu-extension-way.

The report from TEConomy indicates that MU Extension’s annual reach and impact touches more than 1.3 million Missourians who participate in local MU Extension programs and 2.8 million unique visitors to the MU Extension website, where 14.5 million publications containing practical information were downloaded.

“I knew our people were busy, but this report really brings into focus the value of their efforts to improve the lives of Missourians,” said Marshall Stewart, vice chancellor for extension and engagement at the University of Missouri. “These findings, about extension and the needs of the people we serve, will be used to guide decisions going forward.”

Through a network of county offices, hundreds of initiatives, programs, educational events and workshops are run by MU Extension across the state on any given day. The programs address issues related to economic opportunities, educational access and healthy futures for Missourians. 

From 4-H Youth Development clubs and afterschool programs, which serve more than 230,000 youths, to older adult programs that help seniors stay strong and healthy, Mizzou is committed to the entire spectrum of human development. It’s all part of being a land-grant university where research, teaching and extending practical knowledge to the people are central to the mission.