Partnering with county departments can save money and expand impact
Leadership and Administrative Skills
Caitlin Justesen
Livestock Extension Agent
University of Florida
Ocala
Abstract
Marion County Extension is supported through shared governance by local county government as well as the University of Florida. The need for marketing assistance and execution of marketing efforts is a common thread in Extension offices. Reaching out for help from other county departments was an answer to Marion County Extension marketing needs. In 2021, the Public Relations department in Marion County offered a hand in the creation and distribution of event flyers, marketing of programs via the county-wide Facebook Page, and the opportunity to have updated professional headshots and other promotional photos captured. In 2022, the PR department upped the ante by offering video and photo services for any programs, free of charge. They also invited our office to produce podcasts in their studio to highlight our events. In the past we have worked with private industry for these services, which is often too costly. In 2022 this partnership saved Marion County Extension over $10,000 in video production costs of two major programs and $2,000 of professional photography services. These audio/visual products have allowed for these events to be archived and shared virtually to reach a greater audience than just those in person. Their podcast has aired three episodes highlighting Extension events, leading to increased attendance of local citizens. It can be hard keeping up with the Jones’ that is private industry and remaining relevant in the world of Extension when working with limited funds. The partnership with county Public Relations has cut costs of marketing efforts and lead to a greater impact for Extension Services in Marion County. The trust, sharing of services, and teamwork has been a priority for Marion County and the University of Florida, made evident by experiences like this.
Authors: Caitlin Justesen, Patricia Nobles
-
Caitlin Justesen Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 34470
-
Patricia Nobles County Extension Director, University of Florida, Florida, 34470