Evolving over time, Extension has expanded its programming to meet diverse needs across the nation. In Georgia, UGA Extension operates in all 159 counties, where agents and specialists collaborate to address community needs. Extension plays a unique role in building relationships, conducting needs assessments, and contributing to the development of healthier and more productive communities. This dissertation used the community capitals framework to assess the current state of community capitals in a rural Georgia county and the community-based social marketing theory to better understand what tools may be utilized for sustained behavior change and increased engagement within rural communities. Additionally, the dissertation introduced the Integrated Community Enhancement (ICE) Model as a resource for Extension professionals to align programming focused on behavior change with broader community development efforts.
