Six challenges which are felt to be facing the Extension Service, both for the 1970s and the remainder of this century, are presented. They are: (1) assessment of priorities, (2) effective program development, (3) program balance, (4) staff development, (5) maintaining effective relationships, and (6) faith and commitment. It is felt that those issues having the greatest bearing on the fate of the country and upon the Extension Service center around the crises of the time and the real dangers are found in the social environment; that is (1) in the sickness of our cities; (2) the alienation of youth, minorities, poor, and disadvantaged; (3) the inequitable distribution of society's power, privilege, rewards, and benefits; (4) educational system failures; and (5) rural area crises. It is concluded that the Extension Service cannot stand aloof, morally neutral, and socially passive and ignore these issues; the Service must take part in seeking new knowledge, strategies, and methods in dealing with the problems of people. (JS)