This well-written text reviews every aspect of Cooperative Extension Service (CES): operations, structure, programs, and more. The text and solid pedagogical tools present all recent changes to CES in a simplified format. This book acquaints the reader with every aspect of the world's largest nonformal education program, from its inner workings to its vital offerings to the community.

Grassroots Engagement and Social Justice through Cooperative Extension grows out of a commitment to the belief that Cooperative Extension professionals can and should be deeply engaged with the communities they work in to improve life—individually and collectively. Rooted in an understanding of the history and development of Extension, the authors focus on contemporary efforts to address systemic inequities. They offer an alternative to the “expert” model that would have Extension educators provide information detached from the difficult and sometimes contentious issues that shape community work. These essays highlight Extension’s role in and responsibility for culturally relevant community education that is rooted in democratic practices and social justice. The ultimate aim of this book is to offer a vision for the future of Extension as its practitioners continue to reach for cultural competence necessary to address issues of systemic injustice in the communities they serve and of which they are a part.

Abstract: This book provides a description of the mission, methods and techniques of the Cooperative Extension Service. The CES in the United States is highly decentralized in management and program focus, although the central theme is helping local people solve their problems and achieve their goals. This publication discusses the principles of program development, conduct, and evaluation and provides an up-to-date overview of extension work in the United States. Any person trying to understand the CES or become a successful extension practitioner will find this book to be a valuable tool.

Taking the University to the People will be of interest to agricultural historians and economists, rural sociologists, economic planners, political scientists, and the many involved in Extension Services. This commemorative volume celebrates the seventy-five year history of Cooperative Extension and briefly considers its potential role and continuing significance for the twenty-first century.