Georgia

Georgia AgrAbility staff presented the Mobile Learning Lab during the Northeast Region Agriculture and Natural Resources Update Meeting for UGA Extension. A group of approximately 35 University of Georgia Extension faculty members participated in the presentation that took place on May 16th at the Jackson County Ag Facility. Extension agents were able to interact with AgrAbility staff members and receive training on assistive work technology as well as outreach opportunities through Georgia AgrAbility.

The Meet at the Shed Program is continuing to offer workshops for men to come and fellowship with each other. On May 23rd, staff offered a class that taught participants how to make berry-picking baskets using primitive techniques. By popular demand, staff expanded the Meet at the Shed Program this month to include a She Shed day on May 30th. Participants had a great time connecting with each other and learning new skills. There were 22 participants.

Members of the Georgia AgrAbility team continue to be a part of the Step-Up Grady community outreach efforts to address the various stressors impacting the lives of people across rural Georgia. Several in attendance highlighted the impacts farmers have locally as well as the many complex issues they face. As a result, a Farmer Community Conversation is currently being slated for the monthly July meeting. These conversations will focus on the current issues, address needs from the community, and identify other supporting organizations and systems that may be effective in ensuring they are able to continue to be effective members of the community while supporting the #1 industry in the state.

Submitted by Whitney Ostrander