Unit Numbers

Stop using unit numbers when talking to the public about Extension offices, impact, or programs.

The bottom line: 1 to 27, Extension unit designations are internal references; a way we internally organize staffing, supervision, and funding. The general public doesn't live in units; they live in communities that are part of established counties, so write in terms of counties and communities. 

Never use a unit number in written and verbal public communication. 

  • Do Use: The University of Illinois Extension program serving Lake and McHenry counties 
  • Don't use: The University of Illinois Extension Unit 3 program

In introductions, affiliate yourself with the county for which you are delivering a program in that moment, even though you may have broader responsibilities. People want to know you're there for them.

  • Do Use: As county director for Morgan County (when you're speaking in or about Morgan County).
  • Don't use: As Unit 15 county director 
  • Rarely use: As county director for Calhoun, Cass, Greene, Morgan, and Scott counties (unless you're speaking on a topic related to all the counties you serve). 

When discussing programs and events, list the county or counties they include.

  • Do use: This conservation program is open to all residents in Calhoun, Cass, Greene, Morgan, and Scott counties. 
  • Don't use: This conservation program is open to all residents in Extension Unit 15.

Don't use Extension unit numbers in social media, including as the identity of your group. 

In internal Extension documents and correspondence, capitalize "Unit" when it is used with a number. Use lowercase "unit" when used without a number. 

  • Do use internally: Included is the Unit 15 budget.
  • Do use internally: I have included budget figures for the unit.
  • Don't use internally: I have included budget figures for the Unit.

Well, friends, that's it. 

"Regardless of the color of your project ribbon, you are all blue-ribbon kids." Perfection is never our goal. Our goal, each day, is to be just a little better than we were the day before, on the days we are able.

We have a saying in our office: "Now that we know better, do better."