Nebraska Extension recently announced their 2024 Extension Award Winners. Several Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County staff were members of teams receiving “Excellence in Extension” awards.
• The Little Free Pantry 18-person team, including Extension Educator Kayla Colgrove, was recognized for “Collaboration.” They collaborate with youth organizations (including 4-H clubs) to build and maintain Little Free Pantries. Currently, collaborations exist in 22 counties.
• The Communities For Kids (C4K) 11-person team, including Extension Educator Jaci Foged, was recognized for “Collaboration.” They facilitated discussions and data-driven focus groups in participating communities to provide a comprehensive understanding of local childcare needs. The partnership between Extension and C4K communities led to an increase of 1,934 childcare spots between June of 2021 and June of 2023. Vice president of Early Childhood Programs at Nebraska Children and Families Foundation Marty Beard said, “Nebraska Extension has been integral to our success in improving access to high-quality child care and increasing capacity.”
• The National Association of County & City Health Officials 4-person team, including Extension Educator Emily Gratopp and Extension Assistant Zahraa Rida, was recognized for “Inclusive.” They developed culturally responsive nutrition education materials in partnership with Arabic, Kurdish, Pashto and Dari speaking partners and culture experts. Their project was funded by the National Association of County and City Health Officials.