It is important to target Extension resources to education priorities in urban areas.
Cities often identify themselves by their neighborhoods.
A neighborhood may be a geographic area that includes an entire community, a set number of blocks with specific boundaries, or a distinct ethnic group concentrated in one area. A diverse coalition that includes UW-Extension, the mayor, the police, apartment owners, community groups and neighbors are beginning to turn a troubled neighborhood around. The coalition is making big strides in combating youth violence and a lack of community connections. A steering committee of residents and community leaders recently developed a strategic plan that pinpoints problems and lists possible solutions and action plans. Future plans call for hiring a community organizer to help implement steps, such as neighborhood block clubs, spelled out in the strategic plan.