ExtensionExpress
Summer 2022
Empowering Connecticut Communities
Extension programs are in full swing this summer, both in-person and online. we are here to serve and empower our Connecticut communities, while co-creating solutions to the critical issues that residents and communities are facing. Programs focus on the expertise of the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) and incorporate UConn's research. These areas include agriculture and food, climate adaptation and resilience, enhancing health and well-being, and sustainable landscapes at the urban-rural interface. All programs incorporate diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, as we strive to empower all Connecticut residents.
There are opportunities for you to become further involved with Extension programs this summer. Our UConn 4-H program is preparing for the new 4-H year that begins on October 1st and we need help statewide implementing these programs. Volunteer opportunities include one-time commitments and ongoing involvement. Extension is hiring in different locations at our statewide offices. This summer, we welcomed 17 interns to work on various programs and extend our knowledge further while providing them with life transformative educational opportunities. Finally, we continue adding to our suite of online programs that are offered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. We look forward to working with you on our various programs and initiatives.
Help UConn 4-H with Life Transformative Education
4-H Volunteers Play a Significant Role
If you enjoy working with children, have a willingness to share your time and talents with young people in the community, like to have fun, learn new skills and make a difference, then being a 4-H volunteer is for you.
4-H volunteers play a significant role in helping youth to reach their potential. As a volunteer, you will help youth in your group learn leadership, civic engagement and life skills through projects and activities. If you have a hobby or interest you would like to share with young people such as photography, leadership, animals, plants, fishing, drama, community service, computers and technology, woodworking, fashion design, arts and crafts, rocketry and more, consider becoming a 4-H volunteer.
Join our Team and Co-Create Solutions to Critical Issues
Extension has several opportunities for you to join our team and help us co-create solutions to critical issues facing Connecticut residents. Extension educator and program support positions are available statewide, and our list is updated as new positions are added. Extension educators work in the communities they serve, and provide life transformative experiences to audiences. All Extension educators work with our strategic vision implementation committees. These areas include:
- Ensuring a vibrant and sustainable agricultural industry and food supply
- Enhancing health and well-being locally, nationally, and globally
- Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion through anti-racist approaches
- Advancing adaptation and resilience in a changing climate
- Fostering sustainable landscapes across urban-rural interfaces
UConn CAHNR Extension has more than 100 years' experience strengthening communities in Connecticut and beyond and is proud to serve all 169 municipalities in the state.
Extension Interns
Summer 2022: Extension Interns Share Their Experiences
UConn Extension is the premiere public engagement program at the University of Connecticut and our internships have transformed the lives of students for the past few years as they translate their experiences with us into careers. We have 17 UConn undergraduate students working statewide with our educators this summer, and they shared their experiences.
Riding High on Online Learning
Regardless of the pandemic, UConn Extension is exploring ways to keep meeting Connecticut residents where they are. UConn Extension started exploring online learning long before the pandemic. The state-wide outreach program began teaching online classes in 2018, with many of their 462 programs offering online options. Despite the Covid landscape allowing for more in-person events, UConn Extension plans to continue offering multi-modal options to best serve as many residents of the state as possible.