Family and Community Wellness, 2025 Q1

Katelyn Jespersen, Extension Agent, B.S. MLS, M.A. Ed.
Katelyn.Jespersen@ndsu.edu

The year is off to a great start! These past few winter months have been filled with many activities. I have been in the schools helping with the annual Bread Fair activities that is continually increasing in student reach and is always a popular program we offer. I have also been in schools doing some On the Move programs in which elementary students learn about MyPlate, the five food groups, staying active, and making healthy choices. I always love getting to visit students in the classroom and they are always so excited to learn through these engaging experiences.

I have also been involved in several groups, teams, and coalitions that are planning for future programs. There has been a lot of focus on setting goals for the next five years by looking at community needs assessments, watching legislature, learning about new emerging issues, and providing proactive educational programs to meet the needs of people.

As we roll into spring, be on the lookout for upcoming programs, including some new ones! Currently scheduled are Powerful Tools for Caregivers and Stop the Bleed trainings. I will be scheduling Babysitter Trainings, so those will be SPRING-ing up in May. I have also joined the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce and plan to help host professional development opportunities through business workshops. Finally, I hope to bring the new and improved BBQ Bootcamp back to the community along with the new Aging Mastery Program. If you would like to learn more about any of the programs I can offer or would like to bring something to one of your groups, please reach out and I will be happy to help!