2024 EXTENSION HIGHLIGHTS
Engaging with Nebraskans wherever they are, connecting them with the resources, research and innovation of the University of Nebraska. Extension helps people solve real-world problems.
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Nutrition Education Program (NEP)
NEP equips limited-resource families to live healthier lives through classes and policy, system and environmental (PSE) initiatives. In 2024, NEP in Lancaster County taught 5,500 adults and 7,700 youth in 1,850 classes. NEP fostered 51 PSE changes to increase health accessibility and affordability. Continue reading…
NEP Class Participant Reports Positive Changes
“As a result of these lessons, I have made several important changes: I have switched from whole milk and dairy products to low-fat options, I check nutritional labels before purchasing any items, I exercise for 30 minutes each day, I plan my meals for the week and I use a shopping list... Continue reading…
Agriculture Outreach
Water & Cropping Systems Extension Educator John Nelson was one of several presenters at the Nebraska Soil Health & Cover Crops Field Day held at the Eastern Nebraska Research Extension and Education Center. 75 attendees learned about the results of the Highboy Cover Crop Interseeding Project... Continue reading…
Early Childhood Prep Academy
Extension Educator Hayley Jackson Perez partnered with Lincoln Littles and Ruth Staples Child Development Laboratory to offer 6-hour workshops to 22 middle school students about career possibilities in early childhood education. This program was aimed at increasing the Early Childhood workforce... Continue reading…
Horticulture, Landscape, and Environmental Systems (HLES) Team
HLES Extension experts assist thousands of homeowners, renters and industry professionals each year to identify issues and solve problems. In 2024, over 15,000 questions were answered by horticulture, entomology and water experts (via emails, phone calls and walk-ins). Continue reading…
Cultivating Healthy Intentional Mindful Educators (CHIME)
Developed by Extension, CHIME teaches Early Childhood professionals how to improve their well-being. As part of a Head Start–University Partnership funded by a grant, Extension Educator Jaci Foged organized and presented a 2.5-day CHIME Facilitator Program. Continue reading…
Volunteers Valued at $772,431 — Thank You!
Lancaster County Extension’s estimated 2,226 volunteers gave 24,861 total hours of service worth $772,431* to our community! Extension benefits from these volunteers who help extend the reach of programs such as 4‑H, Master Gardeners and Extension Board members. Continue reading…
4-H Programs Engaged 34,177 Youth
4-H equips youth with skills for the future while meeting them where they are today. 4-H builds a ready generation in a world of change.
4-H Clubs
With over 50 clubs ranging from 5 to 75 youth members, clubs are an important part of the Lancaster County 4‑H program. 4‑H clubs are led by adult volunteers, hold regular meetings, elect youth officers, recite the 4‑H pledge, learn together and do community service projects. Continue reading…
4-H at Lancaster County Super Fair
502 4‑H/FFA exhibitors showcased 4,696 exhibits (including static exhibits, animals, contest entries and Clover Kids exhibits). The Super Fair provides 4‑H youth an opportunity to share the projects they’ve worked on throughout the year. Continue reading…
4-H STEM
A new club focusing on generative artificial intelligence (AI) met seven times in two months. Youth in grades 5–8 journeyed into the world of AI through storytelling, art, games and more. They gained hands-on experience with AI tools like ChatGPT and DALL‑E and explored how AI is impacting... Continue reading…
4-H in the Classroom
Lancaster County 4‑H presents several programs in local schools which meet Lincoln Public Schools, Nebraska or national education standards. The Nutrition School Enrichment Kits program for grades K–5 reached 17,593 students in 41 schools during the 2023–24 school year. Continue reading…
Afterschool Programs
4‑H delivered 144 afterschool/out-of-school programs focusing on hands-on STEM programs such as creating slime in a bag. Pictured is Extension Assistant Elizabeth Thiltges leading a 4‑H STEM club in learning about polymers. Continue reading…
Nebraska Extension’s Strategic Direction
1) Strengthen Nebraska Agriculture & Food Systems
2) Inspire Nebraskans & Their Communities
3) Enhance The Health & Wellbeing of All Nebraskans
How the Big 3 energize Nebraska’s future:
• Developing a skilled workforce
• Enhancing health & wellbeing
• Creating statewide economic... Continue reading…
Originally published December 30, 2024 -
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