The content of this training has been determined by the primary outcomes in the three community projects, the need to develop collaborations and the need to build sustainability into the program. Additional support for program development and sustainability has been provided through training in evaluation, public relations, and grant writing. Project staff have been encouraged to attend conferences on topics that will increase their capacity to meet the priority goals of their projects. Resources available from the state office have been organized by category and posted on the web, with materials available only to project staff listed on a restricted site. Video tapes of national satellite conferences are also available for project staff.
School administrators are important collaborators in all three of the projects.
Social service agencies, a Federal youth development program, Air Force personnel, university faculty, a church, and community organizations have provided space, shared expertise, and collaborated in a variety of ways to promote the community projects. A broad array of Extension staff in the three county offices have provided programming for youth and adults, supported community development efforts, and demonstrated significant support to project staff in administrative issues related to meeting program goals. Other Extension staff members have contributed significantly to community projects by sharing their skills in community development, horticulture, environmental education, and safety. Nine children earned special incentive day camp and overnight camp trips for participation in weekly activities and effort toward improved behavior. Youth reported more confidence in their academic abilities, and teachers noted the contribution of the program to students' academic progress.