Well, we are back at it here on campus. The fall semester has arrived, and students are seemingly everywhere, bringing an energy of excitement and boundless potential. Concurrently, groundbreaking research is being conducted by faculty and staff in a wide variety of venues, and Purdue Extension professionals are working diligently to deliver practical, research-based information that enhances lives and livelihoods.
To accomplish our mission, we must effectively collaborate with our partners at all levels to identify priorities and develop targeted courses of action. Our success is oftentimes a function of our approach. Knowledge matters, but process drives implementation and impact.
Please let me explain…
Over the years, I have been fortunate to learn numerous valuable lessons through my wife's philanthropic work. One main lesson I've learned is that everything needs to be donor-driven. As such, in Extension, I've always been stakeholder-focused—what do stakeholders need? What are their wants and dreams? How can we help them realize those aspirations?
Purdue Extension Community Development doesn't make decisions for people; we help people and communities make their own decisions. We offer alternatives based on science and research, then help communities consider and weigh the consequences of those alternatives. We can help facilitate the process, but they make the decisions.
This approach means starting where communities are—with their existing capacity, assets, and vision. We serve as a capacity builder and a catalyst. Just like in chemistry, catalysts facilitate reactions without being altered themselves, remaining ready to participate in subsequent ‘reactions’ (or initiatives!). As catalysts, we can serve as non-stakeholder facilitators and provide unbiased technical assistance. We don't want to lead projects because if Extension leads and then pulls out, communities haven't built the capacity for sustained success. We want to catalyze solutions, coach communities, and position them for long-term success. That's how real community vitality develops.
This asset-based approach recognizes that every community—regardless of size or challenges—possesses a wealth of talents, skills, and resources. Rather than beginning with deficits or problems, we start by mapping what already exists: the capabilities of residents, the strengths of local organizations, and the formal/informal networks that bind communities together. When we help communities identify and connect these assets, we build on existing foundations rather than creating dependency on external solutions.
This approach empowers local people to take ownership of their future while Purdue Extension provides research-based knowledge and facilitation skills that help turn community assets into sustainable solutions.
Does this sound like what you and your community have been seeking? Take some time to learn more about our thematic areas and signature programs. Please feel free to reach out to our fantastic team!