This presentation examines leadership development programs offered by the University of Minnesota Extension and similar programs, focusing on how they address the needs of diverse Minnesota communities, particularly Latiné ones. It identifies strengths, evaluates gaps in English-only versus culturally and linguistically responsive programs, and emphasizes the importance of Spanish-language resources. Using a landscape analysis, it provides recommendations for equitable, culturally responsive leadership and civic engagement opportunities. Additionally, it explores making resources more accessible and relevant to Latiné communities.
Relationship of presentation to the conference theme
This presentation connects with the conference themes of innovation, thriving communities, and place-based collaboration for shared regional prosperity.
The analysis seeks to identify the strengths of existing programs that may hold strategic significance for either maintenance or expansion. Conversely, it will assess gaps and address concerns related to programs aimed at a broad population, particularly in terms of their effectiveness in recognizing and nurturing the leadership and civic engagement. How these general approaches might underestimate the strengths of Latiné communities and not fully their developmental needs. It is the belief that the delivery of programs in Spanish can have greater acceptance by members of the Latiné communities in ways that English-only modalities might not. Yet, the delivery of programs in these manners requires more resources and personnel, resulting in limited access to programs and resources available to mainstream communities. Thus, this analysis will outline meaningful opportunities for the University of Minnesota Extension to minimize these potential disparities for Latiné and other limited English communities, particularly in the community models, and limiting participation due to language and cultural differences, with consideration to resource and personnel demands.
