The Missouri AgrAbility Project sent six staff members representing the University of Missouri Extension, Centers for Independent Livings, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, and Volunteer Coordinator to the AgrAbility Ag Assessment Training in Madison, Wisconsin. Missouri is in the process of implementing a new on-the-farm Assessment team which includes members from all the aforementioned organizations and agencies along FSA and Rehab Services for the Blind who will collaboratively work together to provide coordinated services and assistance to Missouri farm and ranch families with disabilities. Also, Missouri is currently working on developing an Assessment protocol, an on-the-farm user friendly Assessment tool, and one central database to be used by all AgrAbility Assessment team members across the state of Missouri.
Angie Fletcher, South Central Region AgrAbility Co-Coordinator presented, Protecting Your Head From Traumatic Head Injury at the summer 4-H camp. Campers learned that a properly worn helmet is the single most effective safety device to reduce brain injury and death.This fun interactive program is presented to help campers understand the importance of wearing a helmet during sport activities to protect themselves from brain injury.
During the month of June, Karen Funkenbusch presented four AgrAbility related programs across the state of Missouri. Christmas tree growers learned about AgrAbility services and assistance provided to farmers and ranchers including farm workers who have disabilities. Physicians learned about how to make referrals to the AgrAbility Program along with what resources are available to assist workers in their immediate area. Another AgrAbility Program was presented at the Washington University School of Medicine to social workers who assist patients with spinal cord injuries during the discharge process and the last AgrAbility program was held on the University of Missouri campus.
Submitted by: Karen Funkenbusch