Collaboration: finding the place for Cooperative Extension in the intersection of community development and health promotion

Interest in and support for local community development (CD) and healthy communities are on the rise. Federal departments - USA Departments of Agriculture, Health and Human Services, Economic Development, and Conservation; higher education institutions - university extension programs, family and community medicine, and health policy centers; community action agencies; and faith-based organizations, have all converged and invested large amounts of resources in improving local communities. Many of the programs or services provided, and funding sources used, are closely related. Yet, collaboration among different professions remains sluggish and spotty. Organizations involved in CD and health promotion in local communities have largely adopted competitive strategies in seeking funding and implementing programs. This article uses case studies from Cooperative Extension programs to discuss the need for Cooperative Extension to be the hub around which active collaboration revolves. The argument is made that Cooperative Extension, because of the breadth and depth of its programs, and its strong ties to local communities (local presence) and networks nationwide, is well placed to promote community and health improvement synergies among diverse professions and organizations.