Missouri
In February, the AgrAbility programs within 4-H included 3 active initiatives conducted over 8 sessions, totaling 17.5 direct contact hours and 102 direct participant contacts. These activities were held in both school and community-based settings across Missouri. During March, 4-H programs will introduce beekeeping and an after-school Rodeo Clown College.
MU Extension's state and field specialists delivered two interactive, hands-on educational programs tailored to production agriculture. The learning goals of these programs were to improve competencies for assisting individuals with disabilities and preventing secondary injuries among AgrAbility customers. Team members used MO AgrAbility materials along with resources from National AgrAbility and AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians.
Networking opportunities were expanded by involving the MO AgrAbility Ambassador Advisory Committee, which presented at workshops and worked with MU Extension to develop educational materials and short videos on specific AgrAbility-related topics. These materials are intended to educate farmers, rural agricultural professionals, rehabilitation and health care providers, vocational case managers, veteran service providers, youth and college students, and other service providers.
Missouri AgrAbility continues its partnership with the Heroes to Hives program in Missouri to offer an accessible beekeeping initiative for veteran beekeepers and their dependents. This beekeeping program addresses the challenges faced by veteran producers with disabilities, including mental health issues, stress and anxiety, brain injuries, hearing impairments, mobility limitations, and other chronic health conditions.
Submitted by: Emily Doosing, David Middleton, and Karen Funkenbusch
Missouri AgrAbility was highlighted as a resource for rural Missouri families at the following educational programs:
- Brain Injury Association of Missouri (BIA-MO) "Concussions: Facts, Fallacies, and New Frontiers" seminar - Eastern Missouri in-person on February 5. MORE Marketing activities included an exhibit hosted by Julia Thompson, with Missouri AgrAbility partner Lincoln University Innovative Small Farm Program and a three-minute address to the audience with an overview of Missouri AgrAbility. Additional recognition included mentions during event welcome, recognition on the event program, and signage at the event.
- Brain Injury Association of Missouri (BIA-MO) "Concussions: Facts, Fallacies, and New Frontiers" seminar - live stream on February 12. Marketing activities included recognition during seminar welcome, session introduction and signage, and inclusion on downloadable event program.
- Coordinated school health conference with an exhibit and session regarding "Get Schooled on Concussions" with Missouri AgrAbility as a program partner.
Submitted by: Maureen Cunningham