Partnerships are a powerful tool for solving community problems. The many forces operating in a community compel Extension to explore creative ways to help people solve their problems. The far-reaching changes we have seen over the past few decades have significantly, and at times dramatically, affected peoples' lives. Many times we can't control these changes, but we can become more aware of them, and thus help others prepare for them. Partnerships cutting across society provide multidimensional approaches to people and issues and can be effective in helping people deal with complex changes.
Partnerships are people talking to each other, sharing ideas, knowledge, and resources.
They create linkages between people and organizations, allowing them to exchange information, share resources, and thus improve society. The amount of information being generated and transmitted around us makes partnerships beneficial as we acquire the information to help people. Developing a partnership is a continual process that requires effective interpersonal relationships developed over a period of time. The unique capabilities of each partner create a dynamic synergy for problem solving. With each partner providing a different perspective, we have an exciting opportunity for people in the community to act as peers.