The Cooperative Extension Program (CEP) was established at Prairie View A & M University in 1972.  County staff  were advised to assist clientele in all the areas they could to help them improve their level of living.  The Community & Economic Development program grew out of the numerous requests of clientele and the need to improve community and economic conditions.

Today, all CEP agents work in community and economic development, devoting approximately 20% of their time to this program area.  It is generally said that one cannot work in the other program areas without performing work in this program area.

There is no clear cut definition for community development.  Community development means different things to many people.  As one writer said, community development is people from many different groups all pulling together to solve problems. 

Community and Economic Development has five emphases areas. 

• Leadership
• Housing
• Facilities Acquisition and Maintenance
• Community Enhancement
• Business Development

Strategic planning for the overall Extension program has started. County and headquarters staff  were involved in compiling the issues identified by stakeholders at the local level and further identified issues at the state level.  After processing the information, it was determined that the Community and Economic Development program will have three areas of emphasis over the next five years. 

Economic Growth and Development
Housing
Community Development

 

Special Project
Rural Business and Economic Development