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CYFAR'S
PHILOSOPHY
Sharon K. B. Wright,
National Program Leader, USDA/Families, 4-H, and Nutrition Melina
Bersamin, PhD., UC DavisCurrent data indicate that 25% of America's children
are at risk for not achieving productive adulthood (National Research
Council, 2002) and, poverty which is a problem in rural, urban, and suburban
areas, is closely related to many of the negative outcomes for children
and youth. These data establish the need for continuing systemwide focus
on these vulnerable youth and children and for integrating this work
into the ongoing Extension programs as part of the educational outreach
mission of the Land Grant University system. "The
CYFAR vision is of American families and communities in which children
and youth lead positive, secure, and happy young lives while developing
the skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary for fulfilling,
contributing adult lives." The CYFAR Mission reflects
ongoing actions to achieve that vision: "The CYFAR Program integrates resources of the Land Grant University Cooperative Extension System to develop and deliver educational programs that equip limited resource families and youth who are at risk for not meeting basic human needs, to lead positive, productive, contributing lives."This CYFAR philosophy includes current statistics on the risks facing American children and youth and also provides a summary of recent research on strategies which are proven effective for community based educational programs which support positive youth and family development. It also describes the Cooperative Extension System and CSREES responses to the issues facing at risk youth and families through collaboration, resource allocation, and organizational change. The paper also provides references to statistical information and contemporary research useful for CYFAR program staff. |
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