Nebraska

On November 8, Emily Jacobson participated in the Stand Up for Veterans Event in Norfolk, Nebraska. This was an important opportunity to share information about AgrAbility with nearly 100 veterans and their families. Originally, this event focused on helping homeless veterans access information about programs and employment opportunities. In just seven years, the event has grown to provide opportunities for veterans to support each other, and in tough times, find those resources to help not just survive, but thrive. Emily noted that veterans who are not retired from the workforce shared with her that they had wished they had known about AgrAbility much earlier.

Jada Zimmer (Ruff) represented Nebraska AgrAbility at the Gateway Farm Expo in Kearney, Nebraska, on November 20 and 21. Jada reports that there were many conversations and opportunities to connect with potential clients and families of past clients. She notes that mental health and well-being was mentioned by many in these conversations.

On November 22, Emily Jacobson and Kara Brichacek staffed a booth at the annual Ag-Ceptional Women's Conference. Nearly 350 people participated in the event. The Nebraska AgrAbility module at the event was focused on caregiver resources. At the booth, many people stopped by who were interested in AgrAbility, as well as family members from past clients who were eager to share how AgrAbility has helped their family. Conference attendees also enjoyed participating in the Plinko activity where they were challenged to try a new stretch or yoga pose! The Plinko game questions were centered around stress reduction, especially for those in the caregiver role.

Emily Jacobson completed follow-up visits with clients in November. They were so excited about their new assistive equipment. Emily says, "One of the best parts of my job is watching people use their new pieces of equipment to overcome their limitations from health conditions." The clients were very grateful for financial assistance from Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation.

Submitted by Soni Cochran