Cooperative Extension is a part of a nationwide educational system which involves the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the state land-grant university system and county government. Extension programs often enhance the work of other government and nonprofit agencies which join together to improve the quality of life for county residents. North Carolina Cooperative Extension provides a broad range of educational programs that are of benefit to farmers, rural and urban residents, community leaders, homemakers, parents, and youth. Extension programs focus on traditional and changing needs in the areas of agriculture, home economics, community and rural development, and 4-H and youth.