CCE Dutchess County >> About Us

About Us


The programs provided by this agency are partially funded by monies received from the County of Dutchess.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County provides equal program and employment opportunities

Strategic Plan

Introduction

The Cornell Cooperative System links research, knowledge, and technology to the needs of individuals, families, businesses, and communities throughout Dutchess County. The system's purpose is education--practical education for residents and decision makers to use in dealing with critical economic, societal, and agricultural issues affecting their daily lives and the future of Dutchess County.

The purpose of this Strategic Plan is to provide direction for accomplishing our goals in the next five years. Four Overarching Goals and attendant Objectives have been identified and are listed below. Work plans will be developed by each program to address the stated Objectives, and indicators will be identified to measure successful achievement. Accomplishing these Objectives will enable us to satisfy the mission of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Dutchess County.

Mission Statement

Through quality educational programs, Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County builds strong, healthy youth, adults, families and communities while enhancing the economic, social, agricultural and natural resources of Dutchess County.

Vision Statement
  • We will focus on being the recognized leader in education in the areas identified in our mission.
  • We will form partnerships with other organizations when our contribution as educators is unique and relevant to achieve a mutual goal in line with our mission.
  • We will develop creative delivery methods that overcome the obstacles to reaching our intended audiences in a large and busy county.
  • We will make Cornell Cooperative Extension a well-respected household name and increase community support for the organization.
Values

(Definition - The basic, guiding principles that provide guidance and inspiration to the board, staff and volunteers of an organization.)

Constructive work in the Community

Participation in education provides for problem solving

Development of Citizenship and Leadership - Youth and Adult role model

Promote self-sufficiency/confidence for complex issues

Partnering/Synergy with other organizations

Meaningful ideas Timeliness of programming
Diversity Risk taking, initiatives
Family/wholesomeness Creativity
Respect for individuals Open Space
Keeping our commitments Environment
Quality and current programmingPhysical and financial health

OVERARCHING GOAL #1

To empower communities and individuals by helping people make positive changes.

Objectives

  • To provide opportunities to build leadership skills
  • To provide opportunities to develop life skills that result in behavioral change
  • Volunteer development
  • Develop community involved, civic minded individuals
  • Endeavor to reach audiences in different ways
    • For Ex: Use of computers (web)
    FPC
    Go where people are located
    Provide education to different populations

OVERARCHING GOAL #2

To increase the CCEDC capacity to identify and respond to emerging needs, as well as continue, maintain or expand current programs.

Objectives

  • Evaluate program outcomes and make necessary changes
  • Assess various emerging needs, including those related to changing demographics
  • Establish linkages and collaborations with other organizations, agencies and educational institutions
  • Volunteer development
  • Evaluation of paid staff and volunteer retention practices
  • Increase diversity of staff and volunteers
  • Explore and secure additional funding

OVERARCHING GOAL #3

To establish CCEDC as experts/leaders in the field of each program area by connecting research with practice.

Objectives

  • To provide education in each program area
  • To provide professional development opportunities including on-going and up-to-date education and training
  • To reinforce link with Cornell University, Land Grant System, and other academic institutions
  • To utilize research and scientific study results of effective practices

OVERARCHING GOAL #4

To increase awareness of the CCEDC organization as a whole, and its various programs.

Objectives

  • To increase marketing of programs
  • To explore and utilize various medium based on where people get information

ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING - TOP NEEDS/ISSUES/OPPORTUNITIES

  • Agricultural Sustainability
  • Family Economic Vitality
  • Nutrition and Health
  • Parenting Education
  • Youth Empowerment