From Topeka to Tchebebe

A presentation by CHF InternationalGlobal Perspectives: Internationalizing Extension

National ConferenceMarch 25-27, 2003

From Topeka to Tchebebe- Overview -

• Links between cooperative extension and international community education

• Perspectives on integrating a global message

• An example of how seemingly small messages can influence perceptions

Links between cooperative extension

and international community education

From Topeka to Tchebebe(we’re not in Kansas anymore)

Peace Corps Volunteer Maternal and Child Health

From Topeka to Tchebebe

Appears different, but many similarities

Coop Extension = provides knowledge to improve quality of life

From Topeka to Tchebebe

Community Education - Nutrition

From Topeka to Tchebebe

Angie’s day care center-well balanced meals-getting shots on time

From Topeka to Tchebebe(and back)

Similarities to Coop Extension

From Topeka to Tchebebe(and back)

“Today, county extension agents conduct health education programs on a wide range of topics, tomorrow we expect to do even more.”

From Topeka to Tchebebe(and back)

Since 9/11 (and perhaps renewed last week), Americans have become thirsty for knowledge about international affairs -- how our lives are already linked to the global community.

“Internationalizing” messages and materials can help us begin to identify the most constructive ways to participate in the global community.

From Topeka to Tchebebe

Perspectives on integrating a global message

CHF International

CHF International is: • an overseas cooperative development organization • celebrating 50 years of success• non-profit• humanitarian relief and economic development

AFGHANISTAN - RELIEF

ROMANIA - LENDING

CHF International

CHF International’s Mission:

CHF serves as a catalyst for long-lasting positive change in low-income communities around the world, helping to improve economic circumstances and environments.

GUATEMALA –AGRICULTURAL TRAINING

CHF International

Programs such as:• Agriculture & Environment• Business Development / Training• Microfinance & Home Improvement Lending• Disaster Response and Reconstruction• and much, much more.

AZERBAIJAN – BUSINESSDEVELOPMENT

My role = communications

Global Perspectives

Cooperative extension programs could review and revise materials to reflect our global position.

Consider the wording:

National network – Global network

Stronger communities – Better world

Good environmental citizen – Effect on global conditions

Global Perspectives

Cooperative extension could review and revise materials to reflect our global position.

Consider your photos and stories:Give international examples

– State office may be able to provide

– Orgs like CHF International may also

An example of how seemingly small messages can influence perception

(The CHF InternationalArt Contest)

International Art ContestCHF International's 2nd International

Arts Festival -and-

Japan's 10th AnnualWorld Children's Picture Contest

Past themes included: “What makes a beautiful community?”

International Art ContestThis year we asked: How could we create a more peaceful world?

The theme stimulated students’ thinking about global issues & improving quality of life for all.

Sample titles of artwork:

•Let’s Build Bridges Between Countries where People Who Live Differently Can Meet and Fish Together

•Friendship and beauty grow from planting the seeds together

•Happiness Is: A Friend who is Different from Me

•If I can get Along with my Sister, the Whole World Can Too (an entry from Kansas)

Global Perspectives

Conclusions- Cooperative extension addresses universal needs (we’re more alike than different)

-Even small changes in our messaging can make big shifts in perceptions

- Even small programs can encourage global perspectives

For more information…

www.chfhq.org

In particular, see:

Get Involved – Visiting International Professionals

About us – more on 50th Anniversary Activities