Extension Education in Webb County - Texas A&M AgriLife · In 2010, Webb County Family and Consumer Sciences programs consisted of 89 group method presentations with a total of 1810

Educational programs of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating

Extension Education in Webb County

The Texas AgriLife Extension Service has been dedicated to serving Texans

for nearly a century. The agency was established in 1915 under the Smith-Lever Act to deliver university knowledge and agricultural research findings directly to the people. Extension programs have continued ever since to address the emerging issues of the day, serving diverse rural and urban populations across the state. Through a well-organized network of professional educators and more than 100,000 trained volunteers, Extension delivers practical research-based knowledge to Texans in all 254 counties. Our expertise and educational

outreach pertain to the food and fiber industry, natural resources, family and consumer sciences, nutrition and health, and community economic development. Among those served are the hundreds of thousands of young people who benefit annually from Extension’s 4-H and youth development programs. Texans turn to Extension for solutions. Its agents and specialists respond not only with answers, but also with resources and services that result in a significant return on investment to boost the Texas economy. The agency custom-designs its programs to each region of the state, relying on residents for input and for help with program delivery. Here are just a few highlights of Extension’s impacts on this county and its people:

Webb County – Summary of Educational Contact

Agriculture & Natural Resources Contacts:

Contact Hrs. Via Educational Programs

Office Visits Site Visits/Contacts

Phone Calls Newsletter/Mail/EMail Contacts

Total All Contacts

14,916 1,575 5,036 2,690 3,353 17,100

Family & Consumer Sciences Statistics for 2010: In 2010, Webb County Family and Consumer Sciences programs consisted of 89 group method presentations with a total of 1810 participant contacts for educational sessions. 25,342 individual method contacts were documented, including 628 office contacts, 8133 site contacts, 519 phone contacts, and 1645 mail contacts. 12,478 of these were made by volunteers trained by Extension personnel. These residents were reached through a number of different programs, including Better Living for Texans, Walk Across Texas, and Wi$eUp Women.

AgriLifeExtension.tamu.edu

2010 Webb County Strategies for Ranching Sustainability Relevance/Issue Description: Many ranchers are having difficulty making a good living. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that of the nation's 2.2 million farms and ranches, nearly 70,000 are technically insolvent and another 73,000 have debts equaling 70 to 100 percent of their assets. Nearly one‐third of family run ranches have significant financial problems. In Webb County, many large family ranches are being partitioned by family heirs or are being sold to large corporations for recreation and hunting purposes. This plan addressed ranching sustainability for future generations through educational programs on native and improved forage management, rainwater capture techniques, beef cattle management and health, economics, total resource management and ranch estate planning. A combination of field days and tours, workshops and seminars will be conducted to cover these topics for the benefit of local agricultural producers. The Webb County Extension Agriculture/Natural Resources committee provided program planning, implementation and evaluation leadership to this plan in cooperation with the County Extension Agent‐Agriculture/Natural Resources. Target Audience: The 2010 target audience included local and area agricultural producers that own, lease or manage agricultural farming and ranching property in Webb and adjoining counties. The target audience are primarily cow/calf operators and lease their ranches for hunting as well. The average size ranching operation in Webb County is about 3,600 acres according to the 2007 Census of Agriculture. The target audience ranch size varies from 1,300 acres to over 100,000 acres. Over 80% of the targeted participants indicated that they received much or extreme educational value from their participation in 2010 educational programs. They attended an average of three Extension programs during 2010. Educational Response: In Webb County, a series of educational programs were planned and implemented during 2010 by the Webb County Extension Agriculture/Natural Resources committee to address the issue of ranching sustainability.

●2010 Agricultural Outlook Seminar on February 18, 2010 provided economic data on general ranching production and marketing. 10 agricultural producers participated.

●Africanized Honey Bee/Dangerous Insects field day on March 4, 2010 attended by 22 landowners. ●Future of Cattle Ranching field day on April 23, 2010 reached 24 local and area land owners and land managers owning over 175,000 acres of rangeland. ●Farm & Ranch Insurance/Liability Workshop on May 6, 2010 was attended by 19 ranch and game managers, ag. producers and absentee land owners.

●Past, Present and Future Landownership Concerns: Wildlife, Livestock Fisheries and Private Ranch Security on June 10, 2010 reached 55 local and area land owners, ag. producers and absentee land owners.

●Annual Soil & Water Conservation District/Extension Ranch field day and tour reached 97 youth and adults on October 28, 2010.

Partnerships and Collaborators:

In Webb County, local lending institutions, private businesses, ranches, feed stores and other agricultural program supporters greatly contributed towards the overall success of these educational programs. All of these collaborators and partners assisted with these Extension programs by providing sponsorships, door prizes, meals & refreshments or hosting of the actual programs.


Evaluation Strategy: Retrospective post surveys were administered to all program participants after each program to evaluate knowledge gained and practices adopted. Overall, the customer satisfaction surveys indicated that program participants were either mostly or completely satisfied with the program content, instructors, facilities, meals, refreshments etc. and planned to take action or make changes based on the educational information they received from these programs. Program participants attended an average of three educational programs during 2010 and indicated that they would highly recommend the educational activities to others for their educational benefit. Retrospective post evaluation surveys for The Future of Cattle Ranching Field Day at the San Jose Ranch were administered to Outcome Program participants in order to determine individual program impact and results. Evaluation statement results were as follows:

Statement Mean Value Before

Mean Value After

Mean Increase

Percent Increase

1. Understanding of trends in factors that affect domestic beef consumption. 2.90 4.09 1.19 41%

2. Understanding of trends in factors that affect the beef export market. 3.14 4.41 1.27 40%

3. Understanding of long term trends in competing products for beef. 3.00 5.00 2.00 67%

4. Understanding of Enterprise tradeoffs, optimizing but not maximizing production of any enterprise.

2.68 4.09 1.41 53%

5. Understanding of the importance of providing quality habitat to both cattle and each wildlife species.

3.38 4.75 1.37 41%

6. Understanding of managing grazing means making timely decisions concerning intensity, frequence, timing, and distribution of defoliation.

2.68 4.09 1.41 53%

7. Understanding of grazing is a necessary tool in wildlife management. 2.95 4.18

1.23 42%

8. Understanding the importance of timing vaccinations 2.94

4.40

1.46

50%

9. Understanding parasite life cycles to improve control and reduce costs 2.80 4.90 2.10

75%

10. Understanding the importance of routes, amounts and method of injection

3.14 4.41 1.27 40%

Retrospective post evaluation surveys for The Farm & Ranch Insurance/Liability Coverage Workshop were administered to Outcome Program participants in order to determine individual program impact and results. Evaluation statement results were as follows:


Mean Value After

Mean Increase

Percent Increase

1. I have a better understanding of why the Pasture, Rangeland and Forage insurance programs were created.

2.33

4.0

1.67

72%

2. I have a better understanding of how the Rainfall Index insurance program works.

3.25 5.25 2.00 62%

3. I have a better understanding of how the non insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) works.

2.53 4.6 2.07 82%

4. I have a better understanding of how crop insurance programs relate to Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) in the 2008 Farm Bill.

2.8 4.87 2.07 74%

5. I have a better understanding of the Supplemental Revenue Assistance Payment Program (SURE).

2.53 4.53 2.00 80%


Retrospective post evaluation surveys for The Past, Present and Future Landownership Concerns: Wildlife, Livestock, Fisheries and Private Ranch Security at the IBC Admin. Building were administered to Outcome Program participants in order to determine individual program impact and results. Evaluation statement results were as follows:


Mean Value After

Mean Increase

Percent Increase

1. Understanding of trends in factors that affect domestic beef consumption.

2.90 4.09 1.19 41%

2. Understanding of trends in factors that affect the beef export market. 3.14 4.41 1.27 40%

3. Understanding of long term trends in competing products for beef. 3.00 5.00 2.00 67%

4. Understanding of Enterprise tradeoffs, optimizing but not maximizing production of any enterprise.

2.68 4.09 1.41 53%

5. Understanding of the importance of providing quality habitat to both cattle and each wildlife species.

3.38 4.75 1.37 41%

6. Understanding of managing grazing means making timely decisions concerning intensity, frequence, timing, and distribution of defoliation.

2.68 4.09 1.41 53%

7. Understanding of grazing is a necessary tool in wildlife management. 2.95 4.18

1.23 42%

8. Understanding the importance of timing vaccinations 2.94

4.40

1.46

50%

9. Understanding parasite life cycles to improve control and reduce costs 2.80 4.90 2.10

75%

10. Understanding the importance of routes, amounts and method of injection

3.14 4.41 1.27 40%

Results: The Future of Cattle Ranch field day program impact and benefit was determined by utilizing retrospective post surveys. 15 program evaluation surveys were secured from agricultural producers that attended this field day. A total of ten statements were used to measure this program. ●There was a 75% increase in knowledge by participants on parasite life cycles to improve control and reduce costs.

●Participants understanding of long term trends in competing products for beef was increased by 67%. ●A 50% increase on understanding the importance of timing vaccinations was documented from participants. ●Overall, there was a 50.2% average percent increase in knowledge by participants attending this program.

Farm and Ranch Insurance/Liability Coverage Workshop program participants completed 16 retrospective post surveys. Five statements were used to measure this program.

●Participants understanding of the non insured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) works was increased by 82%.

●As a result of attending this workshop, participants revealed a 62% increase in knowledge on how the Rainfall Index insurance program works. ●This workshop showed an average of 74% increase in knowledge by participants attending.


Past, Present and Future Landownership Concerns seminar program benefit and impact was calculated by also using retrospective post evaluation surveys. 31 program evaluation surveys were completed and turn in by land owners, ranch and game managers and other program participants. Twelve statements of subject matter understanding were used to measure this particular program.

●There was 80% increase in knowledge on the understanding of feral hog control options that was documented from the program participants. ●Participants revealed a 77% knowledge increase on how to properly manage their stock ponds for a balanced fish and aquatic plant population. ●This program had an average of 71% in increased knowledge on the twelve subject matter statements measured.

Acknowledgments: The Webb County Extension Agriculture/Natural Resources committee provided the leadership and direction for these educational programs that greatly impact and improve the quality of life in the county. Texas AgriLife Extension Service is extremely fortunate in this county to have strong educational program support collaborations which expand our outreach and overall impact.

Future Program Actions: Work will continue with the Agriculture and Natural Resources committee and Texas AgriLife Extension Service will continue to offer educational programs targeting maintaining ranching sustainability for future generations.


2010 BLT Evaluation Report for Webb County

Eat Better to Live Better Situation

In Webb County, an estimated 110,000 have incomes that are 185% of poverty or below; 78,650 receive food stamp benefits. Research has shown that individuals who live in poverty have dietary intakes that are not congruent with current recommendations (i.e. Dietary Guidelines or MyPyramid). This audience, like many, may not recognize their risk for foodborne illness. Stretching resources so food is available throughout the month is also a challenge.

Response – Better Living for Texans

The Better Living for Texans (BLT) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP‐Ed) project was initiated in 1995 as a cooperative endeavor among Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), and the Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) of USDA. The program is offered in every county that is served by a County Extension Agent ‐ Family and Consumer Sciences (CEA‐FCS), including Webb County. A component of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), BLT provides educational programs to food stamp recipients, applicants, and other approved audiences to help improve their ability to plan and prepare nutritious meals, stretch food dollars, and prepare and store food safely. In addition, BLT incorporates its programs with the Walk Across Texas program to promote physical activity. BLT is delivered through a variety of teaching methods that reflect audience needs. Teaching methods include, lesson series, single education events, one to one consultations, demonstrations, and tours. With the presence of BLT in almost every county in the state, Extension is poised to reach all areas of Texas, both rural and urban, and increase the likelihood of meeting the nutrition education needs of under‐served Texans. During 2010, more than 250 Webb County adults participated in the BLT Eat Better to Live Better series. This program focuses on meal planning, stretching food dollars, and adopting selected behaviors that can reduce the risk of foodborne illness. Program evaluation

Evaluation of the Webb County BLT program was conducted via the use of a pre, post, and 30‐day follow‐up survey. This allowed for the collection of data that reflected current behaviors, behaviors that participants intended to adopt, and extent to which behaviors were actually adopted. The instrument also allowed for the estimated of changes in out‐of‐pocket food expenses that may have occurred as a result of their participation in BLT. This report represents 120 adults who participated in the program and completed the pre, and post surveys. 101 of those participants completed the pre, post and 30‐day follow‐up surveys; therefore this report reflect the data from the 101 participants who completed all three surveys. Results Participant Characteristics Most of the 120 participant who enrolled in BLT were female and Hispanic. More than 70% of participants had not completed high school. The average age of participants was 62 years; average household size was 3.1. SNAP (food stamps) and food pantries were programs utilized most often by participants (Table 1).


Table 1 – Participant characteristics Gender Number Percentage* Female 109 90.8 Male 11 9.2 No response/data missing 0 Ethnicity White 3 2.5 Black 0 Hispanic 114 95.0 Asian 0 Other 0 Don’t know 0 No response 3 2.5 Marital Status Never married 13 10.8 Married 54 45.0 Divorced 12 10.0 Separated 4 3.3 Widowed 36 30.0 No response/data missing 1 0.8 Highest Level of Education Completed Less than high school 85 70.8 High school or GED 24 20.0 Some college 4 3.3 College graduate 5 4.2 Graduate degree 0 No response/data missing 2 1.7 Reported Participation in Selected Programs TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) 8 6.7 WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) 18 15.0 Head Start 1 0.8 Food Banks/pantries 70 58.3 Free/reduced school meals 40 33.3 SNAP/Food Stamps 98 81.7 * Percentages are rounded to the nearest tenth; therefore percentages in each category may not total 100%. Program Impact To assess program impact, we examined behaviors followed at the time of program entry, intent to change behavior, and the actual adoption of behaviors approximately 30 days after the program has ended. This is done by analyzing the data of the 101 of the 120 participants who completed the pre, post, and 30‐day follow‐up surveys. Meal Planning and Food Resource Management – adoption of behaviors

Behavior Current behavior (pre) Number (%)

Intent to change Number (%)

Behavior 30 days later Number (%)

Plan Meals Always 37 (36.6) 84 (83.2) 80 (79.2)


Sometimes 51 (50.5) 15 (14.9) 18 (17.8) Never 8 (7.9) 1 (1.0) 0 Not Sure 3 (3.0) 1 (1.0) 3 (3.0) No response 2 (2.0) 0 0 Shop with a list Always 39 (38.6) 93 (92.1) 91 (90.1) Sometimes 49 (48.5) 7 (6.9) 9 (8.9) Never 11 (10.9) 1 (1.0) 0 Not Sure 2 (2.0) 0 1 (1.0) No response 0 0 0 Compare prices Always 45 (44.6) 93 (92.1) 94 (93.1) Sometimes 39 (38.6) 6 (5.9) 5 (5.0) Never 16 (15.8) 2 (2.0) 0 Not Sure 1 (1.0) 0 2 (2.0) No response 0 0 0 Use unit pricing Always 24 (23.8) 81 (80.2) 54 (53.5) Sometimes 46 (45.5) 14 (13.9) 27 (26.7) Never 28 (27.7) 1 (1.0) 0 Not Sure 3 (3.0) 5 (5.0) 20 (19.8) No response 0 0 0 Overall, most participants were using the targeted food resource management practices either “always” or “sometimes” when they first entered the BLT program. Immediately after the program ended there was a noted increase in the percentage of participants who intended to practices these behaviors “always.” With the exception of meal planning and the use of unit pricing, that intent was sustained 30 days later. Food Safety‐ adoption of behaviors

Behavior Frequency (pre) Number (%)

Frequency (post) Number (%)

(intent to change)

Frequency (30‐day follow‐up)

Number (%) How long did you leave your last meal out after it was prepared?

Eaten/stored immediately

0 50 (49.5) 66 (65.3)

< 1 hour 54 (53.5) 47 (46.5) 33 (32.7)

1 – 2 hours 33 (32.7) 3 (3.0) 2 (2.0)

> 2 hours 9 (8.9) 1 (1.0) 0

Not Sure 4 (4.0) 0 0

No response 1 (1.0) 0 0 Wash cutting boards, knives and counter tops after cutting up raw meat or poultry


Always 96 (95.0) 100 (99.0) 97 (96.0) Sometimes 4 (4.0) 0 4 (4.0) Never 0 1 (1.0) 0 Not Sure 0 0 0 No response 1 (1.0) 0 0 Wash hands with soap and water before and during cooking

Always 98 (97.0) 101 (100.0) 100 (99.0) Sometimes 1 (1.0) 0 1 (1.0) Never 0 0 0 Not Sure 0 0 0 No response 2 (2.0) 0 0 A majority of participants were following the targeted food safety practices when they first entered the BLT program and intended to do so immediately after the program ended as well as 30‐days later. Also, more participants were storing or immediately eating prepared foods instead of letting them sit out at room temperature 30 days later compared to when they entered the program. None of the participants were letting prepared food sit out longer than 2 hours when contacted 30 days after the program ended. Other findings: 93% (n=112) of the 120 respondents reported that BLT was their first exposure to Texas AgriLife Extension. This suggests that the program is reaching new audiences who otherwise might not have the opportunity to benefit from Extension programs. Average monthly of outofpocket food expenses reported by participants**:

Before BLT: $ 163.26 After BLT: $ 124.20 Estimated monthly savings: $39.06

** Based on 100 participants who reported monthly out‐of‐pocket food expenses at the beginning of BLT and 30‐days after the program ended. Changes in out‐of‐pocket food expenses were significantly different. If this reduction in out‐of‐pocket expenses were not due to some economic hardship (i.e. loss of a job or food benefits) and IF they could be sustained for an entire year then these 100 individuals could save a total of $ 46,872. There was little change in the percentage of participants who participated in programs such as TANF, WIC, food pantries, SNAP, or free/reduced school meals. Therefore, these results are encouraging. For all participants who completed the pre and follow‐up survey (n=101), the percentage who rated their perceived ability to prepare nutritious meals as either “good” or “very good” was 66% (n=67) before BLT (pre‐survey) and 99% (n=100) (post survey). Of the 101 individuals who could be contacted 30 days after the program ended, 76 of them (75%) rated the BLT program as “excellent.” Another 25 (25%) rated the program as “good.” Client Success Stories After completing their lesson series, the participants at the Webb County Health and Nutrition Center became involved in Walk Across Texas as part of their overall plan for healthy living. Upon completing the 8 week program, they designed their own health and exercise program and continue to implement it. They report more energy and weight loss. One family at another location reported consuming more fiber by adding fruits and vegetables to their diet, which previously contained a limited amount. They reported more energy, weight loss, and more efficient digestion.


2010 Webb County

Walk Across Texas Relevance

Physical inactivity is associated with an increased risk of a number of chronic health conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some cancers, high blood pressure, as well as overweight and obesity. Additionally, research indicates that only 25% of adults and 27% of high school students get regular, moderate exercise. 29% of American Adults are not physically active at all. In 2009, it was estimated that up to 29% of Texans were obese, and that from 27.8 % to 29.1% of adults in Webb County were obese. It is estimated that between 30 and 34% of Hispanics are obese. Webb County with its high hispanic population necessarily has a high obesity rate. By 2009, the prevalence of obesity among adults had increased from 23% to 30% overall. The percentage of young people who are overweight has more than doubled in the last 20 years. In 1999‐2002 16% of Americans ages 6‐19 years were overweight. Sixty‐one and a half percent of children aged 9‐13 years do not participate in any organized physical activity during their non‐school hours and that 22.6% do not engage in any free‐time physical activity. It is now estimated that 17% of children in Webb County are overweight.

Response – Walk Across Texas

Goal: Decrease the demand for health care by decreasing the number of adults and children who are inactive or overweight through nutrition and activity programs delivered to families, schools, and communities which improve health across the life‐span. Walk Across Texas is an eight week program designed to help people of all ages support one another to establish the habit of regular physical activity. Regular physical activity and controlling weight can significantly reduce the incidence and impact of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, and depression and is associated with a longer healthier life. Webb County had a total of 15 Walk Across Texas teams in 2010. Webb County networked with the Texercise project with 80 participants qualifying by age of 40 or above. Webb County participated in the WAT/TEA Challenge with 2 teams from United ISD. Participant Characteristics Adult participation ‐ 78% of the 120 participant who enrolled in WAT adult program were female and 100% were Hispanic. Youth participation ‐ 750 youth participation certificates presented at summer youth activities. Youth walked 30 minutes per day for 45 days during work with Laredo Boys and Girls Clubs during summer vacation period.

Walk Across Texas 2010 Webb County Adult Participation

Total number of teams 15

Total number of participants 120

Total number of miles walked 12,525

Average miles walked per team 835

Average miles walked per person 105


Program evaluation Evaluation of the Webb County WAT program was conducted via the use of a pre, and post survey. This allowed for the collection of data that reflected current behaviors, and the extent to which behaviors were actually adopted. 120 adults participated in the program. 90 of those participants completed both the pre, and post surveys. Survey indicates that the number of participants active for 30 mins. increased from 80% to 100%. Participants active for 30 to 60 mins. increased from 50% to 80%.

“Before” surveys completed 120 of 120 = 100%

Participants active < 30 mins. daily 24 of 120 = 20%

Participants active 30 mins. or more 96 of 120 = 80%

Participants active 30 to 60 mins. daily 60 of 120 = 50%

Participants active > 60 mins. daily 27 of 120 = 23%

Number of participants walking 75 of 120 = 62%

Number of participants doing other activities 60 of 120 = 50%

“After” surveys completed 90 of 120 = 75%

Participants active < 30 mins. daily 0 of 90 = 0%

Participants active 30 mins. or more 90 of 90 = 100%

Participants active 30 to 60 mins. daily 72 of 90 = 80%

Participants active > 60 mins. daily 18 of 90 = 20%

Number of participants walking 90 of 90 = 100%

Number of participants doing other activities 54 of 90 = 60%

Results – Satisfaction

80% of respondents stated that what they liked best about Walk Across Texas was that it encouraged them to be more active on an ongoing basis.

60% of respondents stated that they found it more fun to exercise with others.

40% of respondents stated that they had benefitted from their participation in Walk Across Texas by feeling mentally and physically better and weight loss.


Client Success Stories

Participants report sitting less and for shorter periods, spending their days "doing something". Participants report walking with a smile, being encouraged by others, feeling like part of the family, surges of energy, weight loss, and a greater sense of well‐being. Participants say that walking with a group is much more fun. Partnerships and Collaborators Thanks goes to: Webb County departments, Better Living for Texans program, Wesley Nurses and Laredo Boys and Girls Clubs. Future program efforts We will continue to participate in Walk Across Texas with a goal of increasing participation overall and in the WAT/TEA challenge.


2010 Outcome Summary Wi$eUp Women Webb County

Relevance

Generation X and Y women, including the age 22‐35 cohorts of these generations face important financial challenges. The Wi$e Up Program came about as a result of focus group discussions held by the Women's Bureau of the U.S. Department of Labor with Generation X women across the U.S. in January and February 2003. From the focus groups, the Women's Bureau learned that Gen X women have special characteristics, needs, and interests when it comes to financial planning. Many of the women in the focus groups indicated:

They just did not know enough about financial planning but wanted to learn.

They recognize the need to do something about their future savings and retirement planning.

They recognize that their financial future is too important to leave up to someone else.

They look to mentors and coaches for guidance, because relationships are important to them.

They like to use computer‐based learning to reach their goals.

They are independent and want to do things on their own, but want support and feedback.

They are concerned about having a balanced life and want to spend time with their families.

Their immediate needs/expenses often take precedence over saving for the future.

They also mentioned shopping for status items, cultivating expensive tastes, etc.

Overall financial security is a major concern, rising levels of indebtedness and limited savings.

Texas AgriLife Extension Service, through a contract with the U.S. Department of Labor ‐ Women's Bureau, developed the Wi$e Up program. Beginning in 2008, Texas AgriLife Extension Service conducted a pilot program with Wi$e Up in 10 Texas counties, utilizing face‐to‐face workshops with the target audience. Webb county has participated in this pilot program for the last two years.


Response Participation in Wi$e Up was designed to enable Generation X and Y women to understand: 1) what one needs to know about money and how to organize oneself for taking action; 2) how to set financial goals; 3) how to prepare a realistic written budget that reflects financial goals; 4) how to assess debt status and manage the use of credit; 5) the basics of savings; 6) how to manage risk as it relates to financial planning; including various types of insurance; 7) how to become an investor; and 8) how to achieve financial security. Results Each module's pre and post‐assessment tools tracks specific intermediate client changes. Ultimate goals are to increase savings and decrease debt. 2010 Wi$eUp Women Survey Objective Results

I have calculated my debt‐to‐income ratio. 5 of 5 = 100%

I have reduced my debt. 4 of 5 = 80%

I am saving at least 10% of my income. 3 or 5 = 60%

I make more than the minimum payment on credit cards.

4 of 5 = 80%

The information in Wi$eUp was very helpful to me. 5 of 5 = 100%

Most of the participants stated that the information in Wi$eUp was very or extremely helpful. They calculated their debt‐to‐income ration and reduced their debt slightly by making more that the minimum payments on credit cards. They have reported starting a savings program with at least 10% of income. Based on the results of this program and feedback from participants, we will continue doing financial management programming in the 2011 General FCS Output plan.


2010 Webb County Project Diabetes Education Awareness Prevention

Summary Developed by Crisanta Mussett, Extension Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences

Relevance

Webb County currently has a population of approximately 241,438. The population that lives in Webb County is below the poverty line by 29.6%. The underrepresented audience cannot afford healthcare, those individuals go undiagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes occurs when the body does not make enough insulin, or the insulin it makes does not work properly. While diabetes is not curable, Project D.E.A.P. (Diabetes Education Awareness Prevention) program emphasizes knowledge of risk factors for prevention and control. Skills needed to effectively manage diabetes are well documented. Diabetes education is not readily available for the underrepresented audience. The number of Americans with diabetes is projected to increase 43% by 2020. In Texas alone, 9.7 % suffered from diabetes in 2009. In the last three decades, obesity and diabetes have become the fastest growing epidemics in the United States and if present trends continue, nearly 1 in 3 Americans will develop Type 2 diabetes in the next decade. The State of Texas has one of the highest rates of obesity and diabetes in the nation, with the state’s border regions facing the worst health outcomes. Webb County is at 16 % having diabetes versus 10% of Texans, and 35 % are obese, compared to 29% of Texans. The Hispanic population in Webb County is 94.5%, according to the US Census Bureau in 2006‐2009. Additionally, it is a known fact that diabetes will adversely affect this particular community at an alarming rate of 47% by 2020. Skills needed to effectively manage diabetes are well documented they are as follows: Physical activity and dance classes. • Eye screening exams • Apply research discoveries to enhance knowledge of intervention and prevention of obesity • Increase knowledge of portion control based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans • Increase consumption of fruits and vegetables • Shop, prepare, and store foods safely • Adopt food preparation methods that reduce sugar, sodium, and fat content.

Through the use of the Project D.E.A.P. curriculum and assistance of advisory committees, collaborators, partners and volunteers, 5,980 residents in Webb County were served with individual classes, health fairs, also food and portion control demonstrations, sugar contents in beverages. The Texas Community Future Forum, Texas Diabetes Council, Webb County D.E.A.P. Task Force identified the need to educate our underrepresented audience regarding diabetes in the Hispanic community, because there was a health issue that needed our support. Response

Our goal was to reduce the risk of this chronic disease and to impact diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes in the community of Webb County by providing these interventions: • Controlling Diabetes through Nutrition lesson • Understanding Diabetes lessons • Get Up and Move lessons (Zumba dance) • Monitoring Your Body lessons • Complications of Diabetes lessons • Medication Management lessons


Events that assisted in bringing awareness of this chronic disease called diabetes to the participants of Webb County are as follows: • Laredo Independent School District Wellness Program • Laser Eye Clinic Health Fair (Dr. Michael Hochman) • Mercy Ministries Clinic • Las Peñitas Community Center • TAMU Las Colonias Program • San Carlos Mission Health Fair • The 28 events were attended by a total of 896 participants. Project D.E.A.P. supporters greatly contributed towards the overall success of these educational programs. Our goal in Webb County was to collect 30 surveys, again this year we surpassed our goal by collecting 56 surveys, results as follows: Results

• Women are more open to discuss and learn about the factors and risks in controlling diabetes. • The incidence of diabetes among the age group of 50‐54 years is significantly more prevalent

(21%) and twenty‐nine (29%) of this age group is significantly more overweight. • The understanding level of the importance of doing exercise and how beneficial it is to do exercise

was outstandingly increased due to the information and materials presented at D.E.A.P. The Post Survey results showed that participants will engaged in doing exercise from a never to daily among all ages and from a few times weekly to eighty (80%) more 1 or 2 times weekly.

• After the completion of the D.E.A.P. courses, the post‐survey demonstrated that all participants increased their level of understanding from a very poor to a very high level in eleven (11) areas specific to the risks of diabetes and the role they play in their health. Participants increased their level of understanding from none/poor to excellent. The highest percent of understanding level was reflected in the excellent understanding. These results are very positive because it changes the participants overall understanding of the risks of uncontrolled diabetes and the damages to the body if untreated. The participants will take a more positive action to take care of themselves with regular check‐ups of their sugar levels and blood pressure.

• The survey also showed that participants increased their awareness and understanding of the importance of conducting self‐checks for symptoms of diabetes and the frequency to check themselves for any indications of medical attention. The post survey showed an increase percent from never to daily checking their feet among all age groups but more significantly among the ages of 35‐39 and 45‐49 years. Self‐checking of their skin and feet and sugar levels is vital to managing and controlling diabetes. After D.E.A.P., the participants will undertake and make acceptable self‐checks of their skin, feet and sugar levels.

Because these interventions were implemented and carried out, the quality of underrepresented audience lives as far as health issues has had significantly improved. Because they have become more knowledgeable this population has spent less with doctor visits and medication. An example of one of our intervention awareness goals and targets was made possible through one of our collaborators Laser Eye Clinic, Dr. Michael Hochman. He donated a value of $18,400 in eye screening exams also, a few urgent surgeries.


Webb County GEAR UP II Ambassadors Developed by Crisanta Mussett, Extension Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences Relevance With personal bankruptcies and credit card debt increasing, and retirement savings decreasing among Americans, demonstrates the need to teach financial literacy . Teens in high school need assistance on how to budget; students entering college have an average of $1,500 on personal credit cards. Each decision we make about our money and how we spend or save it is so important. The economically challenged youth in Webb County are faced with social, emotional and financial pressure each year. Youth today, lack leadership mentors, professional opportunities, and economic freedom. Financial planning is not provided by any of the school districts in Webb County. The students involved with this program were called GEAR UP II Ambassadors and were from United, United South and Cigarroa High Schools. The NEFE High Financial Planning Program is designed to teach financial skills so they can become responsible students and individuals in their schools and communities. The NEFE High Financial Planning Program is also designed to prepare students on how to acquire college grants, scholarships, and low interest on credit cards. The NEFE High Financial Planning Program known as NEFE in Webb County is an after‐school enrichment program conducted by Cooperative Extension Agent and the GEAR UP II Coordinators Americorp volunteers from Texas A&M International University. After school instructions integrate financial planning, life skills and leadership development. The NEFE program ran from January to August of 2010. The NEFE Financial Planning included educational lessons from the NEFE Financial Planning curriculum, interactive activities were:

• Leadership workshops • Importance of financial planning • Where does your money go • Your financial roadmap • Making it happen

Other activities included: ‘ Career awareness Youth Leadership Laboratory, Prairie View A&M University ‘ Financial Literacy Workshops The GEAR UP II Coordinators and Americorp volunteers would set up classrooms at their perspective high schools. They were instrumental in the GEAR UP II Ambassador’s attendance. The Cooperative Extension Program Agent provided the curriculum and conducted the lessons on NEFE Financial Planning on a weekly and monthly basis. Another facet that was provided to enhance the success of the GEAR UP II Ambassadors sponsored six students from three high schools were invited to attend the Career Awareness Youth Leadership Laboratory at Prairie View A&M University.


Another facet of this plan was six students being invited to the Career Awareness & Youth Leadership Laboratory (CAYLL) it is an educational activity for youth, ages 14‐19. It is held annually on the campus of Prairie View A&M University. The program is designed to provide experiential learning opportunities that reinforce the importance of education, improve employability skills and explore careers in a non‐formal setting. Youth participate in career workshops that focus primarily on the agricultural and human sciences such as:

• Old McDonald’s Farm • From Citizen to Community Leader • Grown and On Your Own • It’s all About Business: Stepping Up Your Profit

Response

Youth engaged in social and life skills seminars as well as experience dormitory style living in a university environment. This event gave youth the opportunity to display their leadership skills which they learn through participation in the program. The Career Awareness & Youth Leadership Lab serves as a positive influence in the lives of young people. We look forward to youth participating in this fun filled and entertaining event in the near future.

Results

Retrospective post tests surveys were administered to all 75 GEAR UP II Ambassador students. The GEAR UP II Ambassadors changed attitudes and behaviors when it came to handling finances, peer pressure and self assurance. Total surveys received were 75 Hispanic youth, 41 females and 35 males, ages ranged from 16 to 18 years of age. 89% experienced “increased knowledge”, regarding personal credit and income 95% experienced “acquired skill” keeping track of spending habits 90% experienced “changed behavior” saving and balancing goals for their future Our goal is to increase the GEAR UP II Ambassadors to 200 served. The current groups of students served by GEAR UP II Ambassadors are in the 11th grade level. As they move into their senior year and anticipated graduation in spring 2011, we would like to ensure that all of our students are prepared for their upcoming undergraduate careers, life skills and financial planning. The partnership between GEAR UP II from Texas A&M International University and Cooperative Extension Program from Prairie View A&M University affords these students opportunities to learn and grow. There were 308 contacts total were made to 151 GEAR UP II Ambassadors in 13 lessons.


2010 Webb County Project Diabetes Education Awareness Prevention Summary

Developed by Crisanta Mussett, Extension Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences

Relevance Webb County currently has a population of approximately 241,438. The population that lives in Webb County is below the poverty line by 29.6%. The underrepresented audience cannot afford healthcare, those individuals go undiagnosed with diabetes. Diabetes occurs when the body does not make enough insulin, or the insulin it makes does not work properly. While diabetes is not curable, Project D.E.A.P. (Diabetes Education Awareness Prevention) program emphasizes knowledge of risk factors for prevention and control. Skills needed to effectively manage diabetes are well documented. Diabetes education is not readily available for the underrepresented audience. The number of Americans with diabetes is projected to increase 43% by 2020. In Texas alone, 9.7 % suffered from diabetes in 2009. In the last three decades, obesity and diabetes have become the fastest growing epidemics in the United States and if present trends continue, nearly 1 in 3 Americans will develop Type 2 diabetes in the next decade. The State of Texas has one of the highest rates of obesity and diabetes in the nation, with the state’s border regions facing the worst health outcomes. Webb County is at 16 % having diabetes versus 10% of Texans, and 35 % are obese, compared to 29% of Texans. The Hispanic population in Webb County is 94.5%, according to the US Census Bureau in 2006‐2009. Additionally, it is a known fact that diabetes will adversely affect this particular community at an alarming rate of 47% by 2020. Skills needed to effectively manage diabetes are well documented they are as follows: Physical activity and dance classes • Eye screening exams • Apply research discoveries to enhance knowledge of intervention and prevention of obesity • Increase knowledge of portion control based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans • Increase consumption of fruits and vegetables • Shop, prepare, and store foods safely • Adopt food preparation methods that reduce sugar, sodium, and fat content.

Through the use of the Project D.E.A.P. curriculum and assistance of advisory committees, collaborators, partners and volunteers, 6,187 residents in Webb County were served with individual classes, health fairs, food and portion control and cooking demonstrations, sugar contents in beverages. The Texas Community Future Forum, Texas Diabetes Council, Webb County D.E.A.P. Task Force identified the need to educate our underrepresented audience regarding diabetes in the Hispanic community, because there was a health issue that needed our support. Response Our goal was to reduce the risk of this chronic disease and to impact diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes in the community of Webb County by providing these interventions: • Controlling Diabetes through Nutrition lesson • Understanding Diabetes lessons • Get Up and Move lessons (Zumba dance)


• Monitoring Your Body lessons • Complications of Diabetes lessons • Medication Management lessons Events that assisted in bringing awareness of this chronic disease called diabetes to the participants of Webb County are as follows: • Laredo Independent School District Wellness Program • Laser Eye Clinic Health Fair (Dr. Michael Hochman) • Mercy Ministries Clinic • Las Peñitas Community Center • TAMU Las Colonias Program • San Carlos Mission Health Fair • Laredo Main Street Farmer’s Market

The 30 events were attended by a total of 988 participants. Project D.E.A.P. supporters greatly contributed towards the overall success of these educational programs. Our goal in Webb County was to collect 30 surveys, again this year we surpassed our goal by collecting 56 surveys, results as follows: Results

• Women are more open to discuss and learn about the factors and risks in controlling diabetes. • The incidence of diabetes among the age group of 50‐54 years is significantly more prevalent

(21%) and twenty‐nine (29%) of this age group is significantly more overweight. • The understanding level of the importance of doing exercise and how beneficial it is to do exercise

was outstandingly increased due to the information and materials presented at D.E.A.P. The Post Survey results showed that participants will engaged in doing exercise from a never to daily among all ages and from a few times weekly to eighty (80%) more 1 or 2 times weekly.

• After the completion of the D.E.A.P. courses, the post‐survey demonstrated that all participants increased their level of understanding from a very poor to a very high level in eleven (11) areas specific to the risks of diabetes and the role they play in their health. Participants increased their level of understanding from none/poor to excellent. The highest percent of understanding level was reflected in the excellent understanding. These results are very positive because it changes the participants overall understanding of the risks of uncontrolled diabetes and the damages to the body if untreated. The participants will take a more positive action to take care of themselves with regular check‐ups of their sugar levels and blood pressure.

• The survey also showed that participants increased their awareness and understanding of the importance of conducting self‐checks for symptoms of diabetes and the frequency to check themselves for any indications of medical attention. The post survey showed an increase percent from never to daily checking their feet among all age groups but more significantly among the ages of 35‐39 and 45‐49 years. Self‐checking of their skin and feet and sugar levels is vital to managing and controlling diabetes. After D.E.A.P., the participants will undertake and make acceptable self‐checks of their skin, feet and sugar levels.

Because these interventions were implemented and carried out, the quality of underrepresented audience lives as far as health issues has had significantly improved. Because they have become more knowledgeable this population has spent less with doctor visits and medication. An example of one of our intervention awareness goals and targets was made possible through one of our collaborators Laser Eye Clinic, Dr. Michael Hochman. He donated a value of $18,400 in eye screening exams also, a few urgent surgeries.


2010 Webb County OrganWise Guys Developed by Crisanta Mussett, Extension Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences According to the Texas Diabetes Council Fact Sheet for 2009, Webb County has a significantly higher number of diagnosed cases of diabetes as an underlying cause of death than other parts of the state. Obesity which plays a significant cause in the development of diabetes also is historically up 28%. Since diabetes and obesity do not discriminate against age, religion, gender, ethnicity, race, or income levels, everyone can pretty much become a victim of this very deadly disease. Educating the students about good eating habits and exercise are very effective and productive ways in the intervention and prevention of diabetes and obesity. The principles of OrganWise Guys were an instructional program implemented by the teachers in Kinder through 5th grade at Santa Maria & MacDonnell Elementary Schools that taught these objectives: *Eat less fat *Drink lots of water *Eat more fiber *Increase physical activity The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas was the donator the OrganWise Guys curriculum valued at over $2000. The Family and Consumer Task Force were instrumental in providing guidance and selection of the targeted schools. The OrganWise Guys curriculum is a very well‐rounded guidance program that helped instruct the Webb County children (K through 5th grade) about the importance of healthy eating habits, exercise and physical activity. Activities conducted in the classrooms included: *Breakfast Skipping Blues Act *Extreme Couch Potato (Increase Physical Activity) *Peptos Party Portions Act (Eat Less Fat) *Fiber Fandango Act‐(Eat More Fiber) *Smart from the Inside Out (Drink Lots of Water) *Under cover Diabetes Health Agent (Prevent Diabetes) The volunteers (teachers kinder through 5th grades) provided instruction to 1,738 students. These students were exposed to 105 lessons and the time spent on the lessons was an amazing 7,592 hours. As a result of the success here in Webb County, the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas has awarded the Cooperative Extension Program with 6 new curriculums. The Laredo Independent School District Health Coordinator has already determined the six new schools based on the number of overweight children.


2010 Webb County Active Parenting Plan Developed by Crisanta Mussett, Extension Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences A positive parenting practice plays a major role in the child's development and life success. Parents have several keys to care giving tasks to help ensure that proper physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development occurs for their children. Research has found that parenting practices which are warm and affectionate, monitor children's activities and present consistent discipline practices which offer children guidance without harsh punishment are related to positive outcomes for children including academic competence, high self‐esteem, positive peer relations, and fewer child behavior problems. This plan addressed issues facing today's families dealing with raising children. Many families are struggling with raising their children effectively. At times parents are mandated to attend parenting classes by the Texas Courts System. Parents are referred for various reasons that include: custody issues and issues related to child abuse or neglect. This plan provided valuable information on how to develop positive parenting skills. With assistance of parent liaisons at the school level, and community centers lessons were provided to parents and participants of the Healthy Marriages Program, from the Texas Migrant Council. Base on overall responses, the Active Parenting program improved parental involvement through lessons designed to support families, promote communication, and improve advocacy skills. The curriculum was implemented for the prevention and intervention of children’s issues. This program was done through family conferences, role playing, and modeling. A total of 18 lessons were taught and 467 contacts were made.

2010 Webb County General Family and Consumer Sciences Conduct educational presentations/trainings upon request and audience need. Presentations will focus on family and consumer sciences/youth development topics such as resource management, health and nutrition. Facilitate or attend networking and program area committee meetings to increase and improve County Extension educational programming. The Cooperative Extension Program mission is to deliver research based, informal education focused on identified issues and needs to Texans with primarily limited resource, diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Many times Agents are called upon to give one‐time presentations based on an audience need. These one‐time presentations may include family and consumer sciences topics (parenting, life skills, health and nutrition) or be volunteer trainings. Agents also utilize mass media, attend monthly networking meetings, and conduct program area advisory meetings to provide education to a wider audience. Fall Prevention El Cenizo, Anger Management, Beefy Bags, and Love vs. Lust. A total of 5 lessons with 196 contacts.


2010 ANNUAL REPORT Webb County

Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program

Supporting Texas Families with Greatest Need Since 1969 The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) helps young families and youth with limited resources—those most at risk to suffer from hunger, food insecurity and the inability to connect with available support systems. EFNEP offers practical lessons in basic nutrition, food preparation, food budget management and food safety in settings convenient for the participants. EFNEP also includes a walking program for adult participants. Program graduates reflect significant, lasting improvement in eating behaviors and healthy food habits. Texas has a need for EFNEP—2009 data show that 19.8% of Texas families with children under the age of 18 were living below poverty, compared to 16.6% of U.S. families. EFNEP Reaches Diverse Audiences in Webb County In Webb County, an ethnically diverse EFNEP agent reaches adult groups whose principal language may be English or Spanish. In 2010, • 70 families with 148 children enrolled in EFNEP. • 69% of families were at or below 100% of federal poverty level. • 67% of families enrolled in one or more food assistance programs at entry. • 93% of EFNEP adult participants were Hispanic/Latino.

EFNEP Makes a Real Difference Using “hands-on” experiences, EFNEP adult participants complete at least a six-lesson series on stretching food dollars, improving eating habits, and practicing food safety principles. As a result of participation in EFNEP the following food and nutrition behaviors were achieved: • 92% with positive change in any food group at exit. • 72% improved in one or more food resource management practices such as

planning meals in advance. • 86% improved in one or more nutrition practices such as using the “Nutrition

Facts” on food labels to make food choices. • 51% improved in one or more food safety practices such as thawing foods safely. Cost-Benefit of EFNEP Studies have shown that for every $1 spent on EFNEP, $10 were estimated to be saved in health care costs and $2 saved in food costs by participants. For Webb County,this is $1.26 million in estimated health care cost savings and almost $252,356 in food costs.

EFNEP, the Expanded Food and Nutrition

Education Program, provides food and nutrition

education for limited resource families with

young children through the Texas AgriLife Extension Service, with funding from USDA. In 2010, EFNEP

programs assisted Texas in Bexar, Cameron, Dallas, El

Paso, Harris, Hidalgo, Nueces, Tarrant, Travis,

Webb and Willacy Counties. EFNEP nutrition assistants help low-income families

and youth acquire the knowledge, skills, and

changed behaviors necessary for nutritionally

sound diets and to contribute to their personal

development and the improvement of total family diet and nutritional welfare.

Webb County EFNEP nutrition education

assistants teach in homes, schools, churches and community agencies.

In 2009, 43.6% of Webb County youth lived in poverty.

Tina Trevino, Extension Agent- Webb County EFNEP 1983 Mangana Hein Rd. Laredo, TX 78046 Phone: 956.523.8784 Fax: 956.523.8784

W b it htt // f t d /


The Webb County 4‐H and Youth Development Program during 2010 consisted of an enrollment of 508 youth members and 85 adult volunteer leaders. The program enrollment consisted of 14 4H clubs ranging from 16 members up to 86 members. 4‐H members participated in a variety of projects ranging from traditional livestock projects to non traditional projects such as photography, shooting sports, and family and consumer science type projects.

4‐H events in the area of Family & Consumer Sciences in 2010 started with summer camps for youth including a food & nutrition camp, a clothing & textiles camp, a photography camp and a leadership day. Individual participation for each camp ranged from 138 with a total participation of about 150. Many of Webb County 4‐Her’s participated in the District 12 Fashion Show, Photography Contest, Food Show, and Food Challenge with nearly 50 participants in all. The most exciting news in this area of the 4‐H program is our Senior 4‐H Food Challenge team will be representing Webb County at the state competition held in College Station during Texas 4‐H Round‐up in June of 2011.

On the Agriculture and Natural Resources side of the 4‐H program, we had 20 Webb County 4‐H members participated in Texas major livestock shows including, Austin, Houston, San Antonio and State Fair of Texas during 2010. They exhibited their 4‐H steer, lamb, goat and swine projects. We had one individual place 9th in her class with a swine project at the State Fair of Texas in September and another individual qualify for the sale with her goat project at the major show in Austin. We have also been holding workshops and educational seminars to help our 4‐H members learn about livestock.

Livestock participation in the annual LIFE Fair is a huge part of the experience in raising a livestock project. We have also started another portion of our shooting sports project by adding a shotgun discipline. Members have already dived in by participating in many shoots across the state. The shotgun discipline was added

in addition to the traditional rifle discipline that has been doing well in Webb County. We had a senior team represent Webb County at the State shoot last June.

The 4‐H program build on developing young leaders. We encourage youth to take leadership roles in their club as well as the community. One of the many things the clubs are encouraged to do is participate in community service projects. Planting trees, picking up trash, collecting canned food and other needed items are just a few of the many projects the clubs took on this last year.


We are also starting to build the 4‐H program by focusing on holding county wide events that help involve youth from all areas. The main idea is to hold events for the youth by the youth. By putting together a Youth Board, ideas will be brought before a youth led planning team to implement activities and identify needs of the youth. We have already kick started this idea by holding county wide country dance lessons and holding a Winter Dance for the youth. Other plans for the spring are starting to develop as well.

In managing such a huge program, we depend on our many volunteers. Webb County 4‐H Club Managers met every second Tuesday of the month to receive training, updates and coordinate 4‐H youth program events and activities. The 14 4‐H clubs are managed by about 30 club managers and co‐managers under the direction of the County Extension Agents. Each club has project leaders that help youth learn things about the particular project of interest. These project leaders help the youth plan, organize and prepare for contests and shows throughout the year. To help these project leaders, many clinics and workshops for the numerous projects that the youth participate in are planned for 2011.


The Texas AgriLife Extension Service Family and Consumer Sciences educates Texans in the areas of food

and nutrition, health, money management, youth and adult life skills, and leadership.

One of the programs implemented by Texas AgriLife Extension Service Family and Consumer Sciences to address these issues is the Better Living for Texans program (BLT). Food stamp participants, the audience of BLT, need to stretch their food resources by using wise shopping practices and preparing nutritious foods for their families. They have a need to improve selection, preparation, safe handling and storage of foods. The goal of the program is to improve health through the implementation of more healthful eating and more active lifestyles.

Physical activity was recently named as one of the 10 leading health indicators in Healthy People 2010. The Walk Across Texas program addresses the issue of lack of physical activity and obesity which has been identified as an increased risk of a number of chronic health conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some cancers, and high blood pressure. In Texas, 25% of Texans are obese. Since 2002, the prevalence of obesity among adults has increased from 23% to 30%. The percentage of young people who are overweight has more than doubled in the last 20 years. Walk Across Texas is an eight week program designed to help people of all ages support one another to establish the habit of regular physical activity. Regular physical activity and controlling weight is associated with a

longer healthier life and decreases the need for healthcare expenditures.

The Wi$eUp Women program provides financial management education for young women. Participation in Wi$e Up enables Generation X and Y women to understand: 1) what one needs to know about money and how to organize oneself for taking action; 2) how to set financial goals; 3) how to prepare a realistic written budget that reflects financial goals; 4) how to assess debt status and manage the use of credit; 5) the basics of savings; 6) how to manage risk as it relates to financial planning; including various types of insurance; 7) how to become an investor; and 8) how to achieve financial security. The Wi$e Up Program came about as a result of focus group discussions held by the Women's Bureau of the U.S. Department of Labor with Generation X women across the U.S. in January and February 2003. Many other educational needs are addressed by Texas AgriLife Extension Service. Texas is subject to numerous disasters, whether they be natural, accidental or intentional. These hazards are somewhat unpredictable. Recently, Texas has experienced the effects of several hurricanes, drought, and numerous wildfires. The four basic stages of Emergency Management are: 1. Mitigation ‐ to eliminate hazards, reduce the probability of their occurrence, or their effects 2. Preparedness ‐ to make ready beforehand, to know how to respond 3. Response ‐ to react appropriately in order to resolve the situation (activating emergency facilities; mobilizing, deploying, and employing personnel, equipment, and supplies to resolve the emergency situation) 4. Recovery ‐ to regain normalcy (short term recovery is to restore vital services; long term recovery focuses on restoring communities to a normal state by assisting property owners, businesses, and local governments, school districts, and other public non‐profit agencies. The (Webb) Emergency Management Output Plan supports the State of Texas Emergency Management Plan and the local (City/County) Emergency Management Plan.

BLT participants receive recognition.


Another area in which Family and Consumer Sciences has worked extensively is In‐home Water Conservation, and energy conservation, as well as providing many youth activities.

AgriLife Family and Consumer Sciences educational programs impact the lives of thousands of Webb County residents.

Summer youth program at El Cenizo Community Center.

4‐H’ers enjoy summer games and educational

Educational Contacts by:

Number of Sessions Number of Contacts

Number of Contact Hours

Faculty 354 18,805 38, 209

Faculty & Volunteers 216 37,546 91,975

Total Group Sessions 570 56,371 130,184

Total Individual Methods N/A 22,950 22,950

Total Educational Contacts

570 79,321 N/A

Contacts by Volunteers

Number of Volunteers

Number of Contacts

Number of Contact Hours

Contacts by Volunteers 120 13,164 408

Total Contacts 120 92,550 N/A


Texas AgriLife Extension Service Webb County

Staff

Contact Information: Texas AgriLife Extension Service – Webb County 7209 East Saunders, Suite 5 Laredo, Texas 78041 webb‐co.tamu.edu Phone: 956‐721‐2626 956‐721‐2627 956‐721‐2229 Fax: 956‐721‐2230 E:Mail Addresses: gl‐[email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

George L. Gonzales Joy Vazquez Crisanta Mussett Tina Treviño Christine R. Sanchez Agriculture & Family & Consumer Family & Consumer Family Nutrition 4‐H and Youth Natural Resources Sciences Sciences (CEP) Education Program Development

Documents

Extension Education in Webb County - Texas A&M AgriLife · In 2010, Webb County Family and Consumer Sciences programs consisted of 89 group method presentations with a total of 1810