In February 2004, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System's Urban Affairs unit, launched a new website. A Look at Alabama Families does just that takes an in-depth look at the issues affecting families today. The objectives of the site are to expand Extension's outreach through technology-based programs, and increase public access to information that strengthens family-centered communities.
Program specialists, communications staff, and contractors provide research-based information under the topics of:
The site is a great resource for individuals seeking information on nontraditional families in particular. Nontraditional families are described as single or foster-parent headed households, grandparents, or other relatives raising children, multiracial, same-sex, or blended families from previous marriages.
The idea to create this site was first initiated by MU Extension, the outreach arm of the University of Missouri and Lincoln University. MU Extension launched MissouriFamilies and challenged other universities with Cooperative Extension programs to follow suit. Of course A Look at Alabama Families is geared toward families in Alabama, although the information may be relevant to families anywhere.
Plans are still underway to expand the site so that it becomes one of the main depositories of information for Alabama families. The ultimate goal is to make "Extension" synonymous with "family outreach education."
Site submissions are not just limited to Alabama Extension personnel, but material will be considered from a global audience with an interest in strengthening family-centered communities. For more information, please contact the site editor, Wendi Williams, at 256-372-4953 or williw1@aces.edu.