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