Not-for-profit organizations make up a significant part of Long Island's economy. However, because these organizations do their work at little or no cost to residents, upkeep is dependent on government funding, grants, and private donations. Unfortunately, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Nassau County did not receive enough funding from the county for 2004 to keep their vital services operational.

The county executive only allotted Cornell Cooperative Extension $200,000 - $220,000 less than what it needs to survive at the current level. Without the additional funding, Cornell Cooperative Extension will have to cut back on critical programs that reach thousands of Nassau residents and teach them everything from parenting skills to good nutrition.

It would be a shame to see such enriching and educational programs come to an end. It's up to the residents of Nassau to persuade the county legislature to fulfill Cornell Cooperative Extension's request of $420,000 so that we can keep these programs alive.

Janet C. Buescher