Annual Report Purdue Extension

Annual Report

What Perhaps something with agriculture? Yes, we help Indiana’s producers and agribusiness professionals thrive,comes to with an eye toward objective information, economic success, and environmental responsibility.mind Whenyou think Maybe you thought about the Indiana 4-H Youth Development program. That’s also correct, as we supportof Purdue the state’s premier opportunity to help youth discover, and develop, their vast potential through a wealth ofExtension? activities. You probably didn’t think about the health coalitions we’re building statewide to improve the wellbeing of Indiana’s residents. Or the ways in which we’re revitalizing economic opportunities in our state’s rural regions. You also likely didn’t know about the expert resources we’ve created to acclimate immigrants to Indiana life, or our programs for parents that are building confidence and strengthening families. Don’t worry. We understand much of what we accomplish has long been among Purdue University’s“best-kept secrets”(as people like to say). This 2015 Purdue Extension Annual Report is a step toward changing that. As you learn more about these tremendous achievements (and many, many more), you’ll see there’s no reason to whisper about the daily difference we make for millions of people and for Indiana’s bottom line. Our big voice spans all 92 counties and translates a multitude of Purdue research into accessible educational programs. This report represents only a snapshot of our impact. You’ll also find this isn’t just our annual report. Extension volunteers and partners are indispensable to our mission. And we aren’t resting on recent accomplishments. Powered by results of last year’s statewide Extension Community Forums (see Page 3), we are pressing forward with new initiatives in: ƒƒ Urban agriculture, with training programs in production, planning, and capital development. ƒƒ Business retention and expansion, with research-based programs and resources to aid communities of all sizes and strengths. ƒƒ Growing opportunities for Indiana 4-H, with plans to spur interest in new communities and cultures. ƒƒ Healthy living, with expansion of community health coalitions and programs to further improve Indiana’s wellness. I hope you enjoy the 2015 Purdue Extension Annual Report. Now when someone mentions Purdue Extension, you’ll understand the many ways in which we are Indiana’s educational partner for life. Sincerely, Jason Henderson Director, Purdue Extension / Associate Dean, Purdue College of Agriculture

THE PURDUE EXTENSION MISSION PURDUE EXTENSION 2015 COMMUNITY FORUMSSince 1914, Purdue Extension has helped Indiana build vibrant communities, strongfamilies, and profitable businesses on its Main Streets and at its farm gates. Our staff Last year, as Purdue Extension considered how to enhance and— including Specialists on campus and Educators in all 92 counties — connects Indiana evolve over the next five years, it became necessary to engage thecommunities to world-class Purdue University research and a nationwide network of people whom it’s our mission to serve.experts on agriculture, community, environment, family, food, and youth. Nearly 800 people attended one of 21 Purdue ExtensionWe’re part of the Cooperative Extension Service, one of America’s largest sources of Community Forums or one of six Dean’s Listening Sessions heldscientific, research-based information and education. Funded by a unique partnership of throughout Indiana. We asked for bold, blunt, and big. Theyfederal, state, and county government, this network of colleges, universities, and the U.S. delivered with unfiltered responses to what Extension does well,Department of Agriculture addresses: what it can improve, and initiatives they want to see.Agriculture & Natural Resources Health & Human Sciences Small-group discussions about Children, Youth, and FamilyCommunity Development 4-H Youth Development as well as Community, Economy, Agriculture, and Natural Resources helped Extension determine strategies and activitiesAssisted by volunteers and local leaders, Purdue Extension reaches millions of people to incorporate into a strategic plan. The results of these sessions— urban and rural, young and young at heart. Our expert information and educational also directly influenced our Educators and Specialists to deviseprograms empower people to seize life’s greatest opportunities, address life’s important over 30 new program proposals that Extension will considerissues, and gain new skills throughout their lives. funding in 2016 and beyond. TABLE OF CONTENTS Inspiring Indiana Youths’ Interest in Science��������������������������������������4 Educating Indiana’s Agricultural Producers and Professionals������ 8 Improving Health and Wellness Across Indiana������������������������������12 Growing Great Things with Indiana’s Natural Resources������������� 16 Enhancing Success in Indiana’s Communities������������������������������� 20 Engaging Underserved Youth Through 4-H����������������������������������� 24 Strengthening Indiana’s Families����������������������������������������������������� 28 Building Indiana’s Food Systems������������������������������������������������������ 32

INSPIRING Indiana 4-H YouthINDIANA Development is introducingYOUTHS’ the next generation to cutting-INTEREST IN edge science early and often —SCIENCE inspiring interest and shaping a sense of how science solves pressing issues.

Pioneering STEM for Forming bonds through 138 youthover a century bio-technology participated at the 2015 IndianaMost of us enjoy a fun science-fiction adventure. However, Indiana 4-H’s Teens Teaching Bio-Technology (TTB) program State Fair Robotics Challengethe science facts regarding America’s educational readiness trains teenage science enthusiasts to lead elementary-in that field are less entertaining. aged students in experiments using everyday items like Building critical skills … strawberries, gummy bears, and drink mixes. Taught in and cool robotsOnly 1% of high school seniors are considered “advanced” county 4-H clubs, schools, and afterschool programs, thesein science. With similar percentages in fourth and eighth lessons take an entertaining glimpse at genetic pairing, DNA Through 52 county LEGO™ Robotics clubs, Indiana 4-Hgrades, it’s clear an interest in science is simply not sparking (modeled with candy), water properties, and more. reaches a diverse mix of urban and rural youth — many first-for many students. Teen teachers develop their confidence, leadership, and time 4-Hers drawn to robotics. creativity while younger kids engage in critical thinking,They are at risk of falling behind in preparing for the world’s 30 interactive processes, and conceptual modeling … and Guided by 4-H Extension Educators and volunteers, clubfastest-growing careers, most of which require skills in science, everyone has fun. members assemble an 800-piece bundle of parts into atechnology, engineering, and math — or STEM. Even outside robot. They then plan activities on a laptop for the robot tothese fields, the problem-solving and critical-thinking skills Teens Teaching Bio-Technology perform, honing their skills in building, following directions,that STEM activities can help build are invaluable. teen leaders strongly agree or independent design, teamwork, group negotiation, and computer programming. Youth competing in county fair orPurdue Extension’s Indiana 4-H Youth Development program agree that: Indiana State Fair robotics competitions also gain experiencehas always been at the forefront of teaching STEM skills in public speaking and audience engagement.to Indiana’s young people. What were early 20th-century 98% Science is useful for solvingagricultural practices if not that era’s vision of STEM? everyday problems For counties struggling to find funding or volunteers, Indiana 4-H’s Robotic Encounters workshop offers a demographicallySTEM in the 21st century simply looks different. Indiana 4-H’s 89% Science Will be important targeted, regional, daylong robotics experience at beginner,Science Workshops, held annually on Purdue University’s in the future intermediate, or advanced levels. Nearly 200 youth attendedWest Lafayette campus, let 4-Hers explore over a dozen a 2015 Robotic Encounters event in southeast Indiana,scientific fields of study — including robotics, engineering, 84% They would like to have a prompting support for six new robotics clubs and plans for aenvironmental science, aerospace, biotechnology, agri- science-related job similar event in northern Indiana.science, biosecurity, and veterinary science. How is Indiana 4-H bringing robotics toThese workshops are just one way Indiana 4-H is introducing over a dozen new counties? See Page 6.the next generation to cutting-edge science early and often— inspiring interest and shaping a sense of how science Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Reportsolves pressing issues. 300+ youthattending the 2015 Indiana 4-H Science Workshop 5

Inspiring Indiana youths’ interest in scienceLocal Faces Rohan’s father, Deepak, appreciates Necessary skills the club’s emphasis on adaptability, for the next“Any technology is love at first sight for improvisation, and persistence. generationme,” says Rohan Gupta, a member of the “Rohan has gained the ability to thinkBartholomew County 4-H LEGO™ Robotics critically and troubleshoot things while In 2015, the Indiana 4-Hclub. “Robotics lets me get into the nuts having fun in a safe environment,” he says. Foundation received aand bolts of how it works.” Meanwhile Rohan’s mother, Poonam, $60,000 grant from the DukeRohan is among many Indiana 4-Hers who appreciates the club’s social interaction. Energy Foundation to fundtransform an 800-piece box of tires, axles, “Rohan collaborates with kids who share his new robotics clubs in up to 14gears, rubber bands, and traditional LEGO™ interests, and because 4-H can encompass Indiana counties. Meanwhile,pieces into a robot. They then connect its so many things, it’s great for so many kids,” Indiana 4-H’s Science“brain” to a laptop and program different she says. “It’s a terrific resource for our Extension Specialist continuesactivities — from moving the robot in family and our community.” to create and enhance 4-Hcertain directions to having it throw a balsa STEM education efforts.wood plane. The next century of STEMAny technology is education will vastly differlove at first sight from the last. But Purduefor me. Extension and Indiana 4-H will continue teaching STEMRohan Gupta skills useful to any endeavor in creative, interactive,Indiana 4-H LEGOtm Robotics fun ways.club member

4-H by the numbers THE INDIANA 4-H MISSIONIndiana 4-H is the state’s premier organization for advancing Indiana 4-H Youth Development empowers youth to reachyoung people. Here are a few 2015 statistics about our their full potential by working and learning in partnershipmembers, endeavors, and volunteers! with caring adults. We envision a world in which youth and adults learn, grow, and work together as catalysts for76,194 Youth members of organized 4-H positive change. community clubs From elementary to high school, 4-H’s future leaders and12,772 4-H adult innovators chart their own course — choosing hands-on volunteers learning activities to develop life skills across dozens of topics. 591 16,180 volunteers years ofwith 20+ years service to indiana 4-h of service$106,900 Awarded in scholarships to Do you know the 4 h’s? 215 senior 4-H members Each “H” represents key values 4-H members build in fun,$36,000 Awarded to 33 accomplishment engaging programs: scholarship winners Head (Managing, Thinking)900+ Participants in seven Heart (Relating, Caring) summer events Hands (Giving, Working) Health (Being, Living)145,204 Youth participants in 2015 Learn more about Indiana 4-H extension.purdue.edu/4h 7 Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report

EDUCATINGINDIANA’SAGRICULTURALPRODUCERS ANDPROFESSIONALS Building on its foundation of face-to-face instruction for Indiana farmers, Purdue Extension is broadening and deepening knowledge of production agriculture across the industry.

Helping Indiana grow more Three decades of expert A proud tradition of popular and save more workshops publications Since Purdue Extension was founded in 1914, our Agriculture and For the last 30 years, the Purdue Crop Diagnostic The Center also recently developed or revised training Natural Resources (ANR) Educators and Specialists have built a Training and Research Center has hosted workshops for publications trusted and often referenced by Indiana’s foundation of face-to-face instruction with Indiana farmers. Indiana producers and professionals — offering expert agribusiness producers and professionals — The Forage Field diagnostic information and best practices. Guide, The Wheat Field Guide, The Midwest Cover Crops Field It’s equally important to relay objective, pertinent, and Guide, and The Corn & Soybean Field Guide, which has sold timely information about crop production systems from In 2014, the Center developed and conducted nearly over a half-million copies. A Corn & Soybean Field Guide App Purdue University to the agribusiness professionals on three dozen state-of-the-art workshops across Indiana, complements it with immediate access on the go. whom farmers also rely for guidance. This includes fertilizer featuring Extension Specialists primarily representing and chemical dealers, crop consultants, seed company Purdue’s Departments of Agricultural & Biological 500,000+ agronomists, and other employees of Midwestern agriculture Engineering, Agricultural Economics, Agronomy, Animal Sales of Purdue Extension’s businesses, cooperatives, and corporations. Sciences, Botany & Plant Pathology, and Entomology. Corn & Soybean Field Guide Each group relies on ANR Extension for crop production Nearly 1,000 people attended a 2014 workshop — Learn more about Purdue Extension and and pest management recommendations to help them collectively accounting for several million acres of contact your local county office make economically and environmentally sound decisions or Midwest farmland and 90% of Indiana’s agricultural extension.purdue.edu recommendations. Without these tips, the lost dollars can strike a businesses or organizations. cumulatively catastrophic blow to Indiana’s agricultural economy. 33 Purdue crop diagnostic training workshops in 2014 500 Purdue crop diagnostic training workshops since 198690% Indiana agricultural businesses/organizations represented at 2014 workshops 18 million Through the Purdue Crop Diagnostic Discover how Purdue Training and Research Center, Extension Extension is uncorkingAcres of Midwest farmland represented at 2014 Purdue Crop Diagnostic experts offer diagnostic information Indiana’s wine economy Training workshops and best practices to producers and on Page 10. professionals. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 9

Educating Indiana’s Agricultural Producers and ProfessionalsAdapting to keep pace with Encouraging renewable energy resourcesagriculture By providing on-farm resources that encourage Since 2008, evaluation tools created by anNearly every participant said the Crop adoption of renewable energy technology, Purdue Extension Engineer have been used in nearlyDiagnostic Training workshop improved Extension could save agricultural producers in 15 600 on-farm audits in 15 states conducted bytheir overall knowledge, that it was states up to $7.7 million in fuel and electricity costs. Extension’s Renewable Energy Specialist, withworthwhile relative to cost, and that they county Educators complementing their workwould share knowledge with colleagues or The USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program, or through renewable energy education, outreach,customers. REAP, helps replace outdated grain dryers with and networking opportunities. newer, more efficient models. Extension has strengthened the auditing efforts required of Audits have shown producers could cut energy producers applying for REAP grants or seeking usage by 36% and save an annual average of rebates and incentives from utility companies. $14,000.98% Attendees reporting99% improvement of overall knowledge from workshop Attendees likely to share information gained in a workshopANR Extension continues to successfully Strengthening Indiana and Midwest wine productionbroaden and deepen knowledge of production Since 1991, the Purdue ANR Extension Wine Indiana is raising its glass to wine as the state’sagriculture across the industry. Through four Grape Team has boosted Indiana’s total number of fastest-growing segment of value-addednew mobile apps to address corn and soybean wineries from 10 to 80 and, over the last decade, agriculture and agri-tourism — bringing $100scouting, Extension will serve agriculture’s increased Indiana’s wine grape acreage by 50%. million to the economy and creating 1.4 million gallons of wine in 2013.next generation wherever they are and, Also, using an annual print / digital publication,through Center for Commercial Agriculture the Purdue-based Midwest Fruit Workers Extension will continue to grow this area withworkshops, help all involved in agriculture Group (MFWG) offers expert pest management information about the latest in new grape cultivars,navigate any difficult economic times. recommendations to 15,000 wine grape and sustainability and pest management, winemaking small-fruit growers in 13 states. techniques, and marketing strategies.

Local Faces They are a great Betsy Bower value for the dollarHands-on training and spent. To get all that Agronomistexperience are essential for knowledge in one daysuccessful professionals. That’s is a great value.why Betsy Bower says she hasattended workshops at thePurdue Crop Diagnostic Trainingand Research Center.“This is not death byPowerPoint,” says theagronomist for Ceres Solutions,an agribusiness based in westernIndiana. “They give you a pictureof a problem in your head sowhen you see it, you know whatit is and can test for it.”What she learned helped her inher day-to-day work.“You get to touch it, feel it, tasteit. It allowed me to see, ‘This iswhat low soil pH looks like oncorn; this is what it looks onbeans’ because I could go out andhelp a farmer diagnose what wasgoing on,” she says. “They are agreat value for the dollar spent.To get all that knowledge in oneday is a great value.” Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 11

IMPROVINGHEALTH andWELLNESSACROSSINDIANA Indiana’s community health coalitions are thriving today, thanks to Purdue Health & Human Sciences (HHS) Extension and its invaluable community partners.

Saving lives, and money, with Leading the charge forpreventive initiatives community healthAn apple a day may not truly keep the doctor away, and the Extension’s Health Coalition Capacity Building Team givesrising costs of falling ill concern us all. But when it comes to HHS Educators necessary skills to build coalitions, developcommunity health, preventive approaches improve wellness coalition coaches and awareness, and help coaches reach outand save money. to communities.Studies show investing in community health coalitions Extension also connects coalitions to the Communityto address localized health issues can drastically reduce Health Engagement Program (CHEP) of the Indiana Clinicalhealthcare costs. In rural areas, such coalitions may be the Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI). A collaborationbest — and, in some cases, only — opportunity for proper between Purdue, other Indiana universities, and public andhealth education, information, and care. private partners, CTSI unites community leaders, health professionals, and university researchers to improve Indiana’sIndiana’s community health coalitions are thriving today, health. With an HHS Educator in every county, Extensionthanks to Purdue Health & Human Sciences (HHS) Extension provides a statewide conduit for CHEP resources.and its invaluable community partners. A growing numberof county-based coalitions is influencing positive health Now, nearly 50 Indiana counties (and counting) havepolicy, improving healthcare access, and establishing a structure to identify local healthcare priorities andwellness programs. implement effective solutions. Among counties without coalitions, nearly all are contiguous to a county that has one. Coalitions address physical wellness, nutrition, tobacco use, mental health, substance use, aging, domestic violence or child abuse, childcare, breastfeeding, food pantries, parenting, and more. Programs include Safe Routes to School (encouraging children to walk to school), workplace wellness recommendations and competitions, nutrition education classes, and the creation of community walking trails. Generating measureable momentum Learn how Purdue Extension is fighting Benefactors and partners are taking notice of coalitions’ accomplishments and pitching in. the #1 cause of death in Indiana on Page 14. In 2014, Indiana’s community health coalitions received over $600,000 in donations and grants from state agencies, not-for-profits, and private corporations. Coalitions also created 39 new partnerships, enacted nine new programs, and benefited tens of thousands of Indiana residents with their services. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 13

improving health And wellness across indianaEnsuring Indiana’s future health Easing the burden of diabetesIn supporting community health coalitions, Extension encouragesfocused conversation about Indiana’s wellness, fosters productive Combine the populations of Fort Wayne, Evansville,partnerships, and improves healthcare access. South Bend, Bloomington, Lafayette, Terre Haute, and Crown Point. Only then would you have about 800,000Extension is also hiring 40 new Community Wellness Coordinators people — or the number of adults affected by diabetesstatewide to enhance coalition efforts in improving diet quality, physical in Indiana.activity, food security, food safety, and food resource management. Byassisting with grant proposals and strategic plans, Extension continues Indiana’s estimated annual healthcare costs specificallyto expand coalitions’ reach and programming opportunities. attributed to diabetes approach an astonishing $4 billion. Thus, measures to manage or prevent diabetesPurdue Extension and its coalition partners are making Indiana are crucial to our state.healthier … and making Indiana stronger. Since 2013, nearly 1,200 people have participated in Purdue HHS Extension’s Dining with Diabetes program. By simplifying meal planning and encouraging regular physical activity, the program equips participants with practical skills to promote good health.Keep the beat with Be Heart SmartYour heart beats nearly 100,000 times a day. That’s 100,000 good reasons to take care of it. But how?Be Heart Smart, a Purdue Health & Human Sciences (HHS) Extension signature program launched in April 2015, is combatingheart disease — the No. 1 cause of death for Indiana men and women.Targeted at adults aged 30 to 55, this four-sessionclass offers simple changes for a heart-healthylifestyle, ways to monitor risk factors, heart-smarteating plans, stress reduction techniques, tips fortalking to healthcare providers, and more. Nearly 100people have already completed the program in sevencounties, and HHS Educators will heavily promote itin advance of February’s National Heart Month.

Tana Sheets Purdue Extension being there to provide a curriculum, toDirector of kids first childcarE provide education, to come into a facility and assist us is just wonderful.Local Faces “So it’s really nice that this curriculum been involved with the coalition since its enables us to be able to teach the children, 2009 inception, helping it find grants andAs director of Kids First Childcare and then they go home and sometimes develop local partnerships.ministry in Decatur, Tana Sheets believes teach the parents, which I think is “Purdue Extension being there to providepreschoolers are at the perfect age to learn fabulous.” a curriculum, to provide education, toabout nutrition and exercise. So she was Kids First is among 15 Adams County come into a facility and assist us is justhappy when Purdue Extension-Adams preschools using the curriculum as part wonderful,” Sheets says.County presented her with the Color Me of the county’s Winning with WellnessHealthy preschool curriculum. community health coalition. Extension has“A lot of families didn’t understandreading the labels at the stores,” she says. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 15

GROWING Purdue Extension’sGREAT natural resourcesTHINGS WITH programs haveINDIANA’S evolved beyondNATURAL education. They areRESOURCES feeding families, funding scholarships, beautifying communities, and creating perennially powerful service leadership opportunities.

3,000+ Advancing the Indiana Master BUILDING A BUMPER CROP OF Certified Indiana Gardener Program COMMUNITY LEADERS Master Gardener volunteers The Purdue Extension Master Gardener program transforms Certified Master Gardeners can now participate in a five-week 160,000 people’s horticultural passions into outlets through which leadership development training. Through independent hours they can teach, feed, and grow their communities. study, group activities, webinars and real-world applications, participants complement their horticultural expertise withof Master Gardener volunteers’ Agriculture & Natural Resources (ANR) Extension Educators skills to aid their organizations, communities, and counties. time contributed in 2013 train volunteers to become Master Gardeners in their for an estimated value of: counties. This multi-week program encompasses plants, Participants learn about the nature of leadership, soils, tools, techniques, fertilizers, plant problems, diseases, interpersonal communication skills, working with others, $3.5 Million pests, weeds, insecticides, and fungicides. Upon certification, serving on boards and committees, running effective Master Gardeners can lead educational gardening activities meetings, conflict management, and more. 27 tons and create demonstration gardens that local organizations and clubs can tend. After training, participants regularly report a strongerof produce donated annually to inclination to get involved and greater confidence inIndiana food banks after its use But this Extension program has evolved beyond education. assuming leadership roles. Nearly all plan to use leadership It is feeding families, funding scholarships, beautifying skills within three months of their training, and many have in demonstration gardens communities, and creating perennially powerful service introduced gardening-related opportunities for community leadership opportunities. betterment to nonprofits, garden clubs, county Purdue $40,000 Extension boards, and municipal governments. in college scholarships from Throughout the state of Indiana, the green thumbs of Master Master Gardener groups to Gardeners are creating rosy outcomes for communities, students in horticulture or clubs, students, and families. related fields Meet some Master Gardeners on Page 19 who are creating rosy outcomes across Indiana. 17 Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report

Growing Great Things with Indiana’s Natural ResourcesA future of high-quality soil and waterPurdue Agriculture & Natural Resources (ANR) Extension is professional development opportunities in water quality responsibility. Plus, the Extension Water Quality Coordinatorcommitted to fulfilling objectives of the Indiana Nutrient and nutrient management. One of the first endeavors will is heading a $5 million federal project to examine theManagement / Soil Health Strategy — a 10-year plan to be an online series on Indiana soil and water management economic and environmental benefits, as well as costs, ofreduce nutrient loss from farms to waterways through topics for farmers. storing water on farms to use for crops when farmers need it.nutrient management practices and improved soil health. Extension is also a foundational partner in the Conservation These are among the many ways Purdue ExtensionA newly created ANR Extension Assistant Program Leader Cropping Systems Initiative (CCSI), which encourages empowers farmers to make better decisions for their futurefor Soil Health position is focusing on programs and farmers toward further productivity and environmental … and ours. On target for safer deer meat Deer hunting is a way of life for many residents of Indiana. However, few hunters know how to properly process wild game, and the commercial processors they may hire don’t want to handle dirty, spoiled carcasses. To address this issue, Purdue ANR Extension Educators held several venison workshops in 2014 — drawing 400 hunters from 17 different Indiana counties. They learned how to properly field dress a deer, how to store, preserve, and handle venison, how to prepare the meat with samples to taste, and much more. Participants unanimously learned something new about food safety, and nearly all planned to change practices after the workshop... It also introduced new audiences to Purdue Extension’s ANR programs, as nearly 75% said this was their first Extension experience.

Local Faces Ronald JonesGardening gives Patrick Lantz, a Purdue Extension Master Extension master gardener volunteerGardener volunteer, an opportunity to give something to hiscommunity. He designed and maintained a Purdue Master Meanwhile in Lake County, the Master Gardener program provedGardener demonstration garden in Fort Wayne, which offers a perfect hobby to fill retired police officer Ronald Jones’s time.more than just a relaxing pastime for volunteers. It teaches “You’re always able to pick something up,” he says. “You’re alwaysmembers of the community about gardening. learning something.”It’s also a tribute to veterans, with a sign that reads, “A garden Jones works on a gardening program that teaches kids how toto honor and thank our nation’s service members and their grow produce and eat healthy. Lake County Master Gardenersfamilies.” The garden has donated more than 400 pounds of have grown a teaching garden in which kids can get their handsfresh produce to a homeless shelter that also serves veterans. dirty.For Lantz, the garden is also a tribute to life and nature. “That’s the purpose — not only to grow the produce, but to teach“Once it gets started, all you’ve got to do is water and feed it people how to eat healthy,” he says.and hope you get lucky,” he says.Patrick LantzExtension mastergardener volunteerLearn more about the Indiana Master Gardener program Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 19 hort.purdue.edu/mg

ENHANCINGSUCCESS ININDIANA’SCOMMUNITIESEffecting positive change with 125 People engaging in communitythe Hometown Collaboration Initiative betterment through HCIEven if communities agree it’s for the best, a “change” Enter the Hometown Collaboration Initiative (HCI), an exciting new 300+ Individuals attending HCI-sometimes just resembles a “challenge” with a few process providing nearly a dozen Indiana communities with data- related community forumsletters missing. driven, expertly supported plans for positive, sustainable change. As a founding HCI partner, Purdue Extension is committed to 4,900 Responses from HCI-relatedEffective collaboration can be a struggle despite long-term conversations about Indiana’s future, powerful data that community surveysconsensus. Perhaps only a few individuals are leading forges paths to progress, and helping residents navigate challengesthe call, which can hold up community-wide buy-in and opportunities of living and working in rural areas.on big, bold ideas.

Guiding local leaders every step Shapingof the way prosperity for the futurePurdue’s Community Development (CD) Extension program forms the foundation of the HCIalongside the office of Lt. Governor Sue Ellspermann, the Indiana Office of Community and Rural The HCI is expanding localAffairs (OCRA), the Purdue Center for Regional Development (PCRD), and Ball State University. leadership pipelines, enhancing economic assets, and providingThe HCI assists Indiana communities of 25,000 or fewer people who want to: strategies to improve hometown ƒƒ Develop a new generation of local leaders attractiveness and quality of ƒƒ Grow small businesses and entrepreneurs, or life. As Purdue Community Development Extension reports ƒƒ Enhance community design and public spaces on current results and adds new communities, the HCI willThe process generally takes a year or two, but HCI communities proceed at their own pace through continue to thrive well into 2016three phases.They gather and review community data, choose one of three focus areas, and use and beyond.information they’ve compiled to implement a capstone project with positive, lasting impact. Purdue Extension is creatingA focus on collaboration and communication distinguishes the HCI from similar endeavors. Indiana communities whereTo ensure broad-based input and buy-in, each community’s local HCI team strategically people are eager — andrepresents all sectors and demographic groups. Plus, PCRD, OCRA, and Ball State experts equipped — to live, work, play,present educational components at every HCI meeting to offer continual support. and prosper.Corydon, Lebanon, Seymour, Perry County, Pulaski County, and Rush County were chosen Learn how Purdue Extension helpsfor the 2014 HCI pilot program, and the sophomore class of Auburn, Orange County, acclimate immigrants to life inSpencer County, and Vermillion County is just now undertaking the foundation stage. Indiana on Page 22. Making a difference in a matter of months No community has yet completed the program in full, but promising results have already emerged. Some HCI communities are also involved in Stronger Economies Together, a U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development program emphasizing regional economic development. One community has created a networking group to engage its young professionals, and leaders in another have pledged $2.3 million to a community trail project. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 21

Enhancing success in Indiana’s communities Welcoming Indiana’s diverse communities Indiana’s immigrant population is increasing. Indianapolis’s Members of Latino, Asian, African, Indian, Pakistani, Nigerian, foreign-born population in particular has skyrocketed Burmese, and Chinese communities learn about cultural since 2000, sparking a need to assist new residents with awareness, self-sufficiency, advocacy, city resources, and acclimating to their communities. more. Purdue CD Extension co-created a curriculum for Natural Plus, they enjoy a positive, nonjudgmental social network Helpers, a program at Indianapolis’s Immigrant Welcome that speaks directly to the Indiana immigrant experience. Center in which leaders from ethnic communities provide transitional services.Purdue Extension helps create leaders that communities can count on to lEAD THEM Into positive, exciting futures.Developing tomorrow’s leaders todayPurdue Extension is developing confident, creative, and Topics included leadership style, interpersonalskilled community leaders in Indiana. communication, economic development, managing conflict, exploring diversity, and learning about county government.In 2015, Daviess County piloted the CD ExtensionCommunity Leadership Certificate Program, in which 19 Participants unanimously gained knowledge and confidence,participants of varying backgrounds undertook 100 hours of and over 80% planned to immediately apply somethinginteractive educational opportunities to better understand they’d learned toward community leadership.themselves, their communities, and their leadership roles. Thanks to Extension, these are leaders on whom communities can count to lead them into positive, exciting futures.

How the HCI helps communitiesHere are several beneficial outcomes for communitiesparticipating in the Hometown Collaboration Initiative (HCI):Develop a new generation of leaders ƒƒ Mobilize a larger mix of people to step up and make a difference in the HCI communities ƒƒ Increase capacity to understand and tackle community- held goals ƒƒ Expand involvement of residents who actively share insights on ways to enhance the local quality of life ƒƒ Engage youth and young adult leaders in shaping the long-term vitality of their communitiesGrow small businesses and entrepreneurs ƒƒ Enhance the growth of entrepreneurs ƒƒ Stabilize and grow local businesses or industries ƒƒ Improve the business climate of the community ƒƒ Help make local businesses more competitive ƒƒ Expand the number of jobs created by local businessesEnhance community design and public spaces ƒƒ Establish a welcome and inclusive environment ƒƒ Promote health and wealth of place ƒƒ Design places where talented people want to be ƒƒ Balance investments in place and economics in the community ƒƒ Build a sustainable economyPurdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 23

ENGAGINGUNDERSERVEDYOUTHTHROUGH 4-H Thanks to Indiana 4-H Youth Development, military youth learn they’re not alone in their lifestyles or concerns. They meet peers who share their experiences and develop the resiliency to bounce back from the stress of a loved one’s deployment.

Addressing the challenges Uniting military kids in Helpingfaced by Indiana military kids education and friendship military youth cope withIndiana residents have a strong, proud tradition of protecting Purdue Extension and its Indiana 4-H Youth Development stressour nation through service in the U.S. Armed Forces. program have provided full scholarships to the Military Kids Dunes Discovery Camp — an annual At the camp, military youthToday, thousands of Indiana youth have a loved Indiana Dunes State Park event where learn they’re not alone inone in military service — many of them in the Army military youth build skills, confidence, their lifestyle or their concerns.National Guard. On a regular basis, these children do and coping mechanisms. They meet peers who share theirnot see the parent or guardian who serves for one experiences, build strong networksweekend a month, two weeks every summer, and The weeklong camp focuses of friendship, acquire valuable skills, andduring federally activated deployment. on problem-solving, conflict develop the resiliency to bounce back from the resolution, and environmental stress of a loved one’s deployment.Friends with civilian parents don’t always understand this education. Campers hike thelifestyle, and military youth crave connections with youth scenic Indiana Dunes National Nearly all of the campers say they met a new friend withwho do. However, Indiana’s wide geographic dispersion of Lakeshore, learn about plants, whom they plan to stay in touch.servicemen and servicewomen — in contrast to military and identify wildlife.installations or bases — presents a unique challenge. Since 2011, hundreds ofThat means military kids may struggle to find resources military youth from Indiana andcommonly available on bases to befriend their peers and surrounding states have also enjoyedaddress periodic parental absences. hands-on activities involving aviation, robotics, community service, flag etiquette, veteran interaction, and more. But the real purpose is developing coping skills and resilience within kids. Last year, for example, camp counselors taught participants yoga for relaxation and stress relief.20,000 Indiana Youth with a 250 Indiana military youth loved one serving in enriched by camp activities the military since 2011 4th Indiana’s national rank in national guard service 95% Campers who met a new personnel friend with whom they plan to stay in touchOn Page 27, see how Indiana 4-H is growing even further to reach underserved youth. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 25

Engaging Underserved Youth Through 4-HLocal Faces “Our program does a great job of says. “We get kids who might be living teaching kids resilience and confidence,” with relatives while their parents arePurdue Extension and Indiana 4-H help Benson says. deployed, or maybe their parents are hereGeof Benson make a difference in the lives Campers come mostly from Indiana on temporary duty.”of military kids. and surrounding states. All five service Benson credits the support fromBenson is the executive director of Dunes branches have been represented. Extension and Indiana 4-H for involvingLearning Center in Porter, a few miles “Just because Indiana doesn’t have a large as many kids as possible.northeast of Gary on Lake Michigan. For military presence in terms of active bases, “Purdue Extension has done a great job,”the past three years, he has worked with that doesn’t mean there aren’t a lot of he says. “When it comes to military kids,Extension and Indiana 4-H to provide military families in the state,” Benson it’s all hands on deck.”summer camp scholarships for thechildren of military families.Purdue Extension has done a great job.When it comes to military kids, it’s allhands on deck.

Indiana 4-H is often Initiatives to grow 4-H further Pursuing fundsthe front door to to maintain vitalPurdue University Based on feedback from the 2015 Purdue Extension programmingand the vast Community Forums, Indiana 4-H is planning several newopportunities it initiatives to expand its reputation as a premier organization Unfortunately, grant fundingcan offer. serving Indiana youth. for the Military Kids Discovery Dunes Camp has ended. This is Spark Clubs will distill several topics down into short-term, just one example of the need six-hour experiences — a sampler of sorts to “spark” 4-H for continued vigilance in the interest both for new youth members and new community pursuit of funding for vital volunteers (whose assistance is integral to any successful 4-H Purdue Extension and Indiana program). 4-H programs. Also, a new Healthy Living Specialist will help unite 4-H As Extension continues to Extension and Health & Human Sciences (HHS) Extension investigate alternate funding Educators to help create collaborative programs for youth sources, its community that address health and wellness. partner organizations are raising funds for Connections for “camperships” so military underrepresented youth youth may attend other Dunes Learning Center camps. For most youth, Indiana 4-H is often the front door to Purdue University and the vast opportunities it can offer them. That’s why reaching underserved or underrepresented youth is of utmost importance. In cities like East Chicago, Gary, Hammond, Fort Wayne, and Indianapolis, Indiana 4-H is engaging youth communities who have no prior familiarity with 4-H. Allen County 4-H Educators created programs appealing to Fort Wayne’s population of Burmese immigrant youth. Indianapolis teens interested in science offered after-school, high-tech mentoring opportunities to younger, inner-city students. And the Lake County 4-H club based in Gary is the largest-growing club in Indiana — mostly made up of first- generation 4-Hers. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 27

STRENGTHENINGINDIANA’SFAMILIESPROVIDING PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION AT PIVOTAL MOMENTSNearly one of every 10 people in Indiana is a child under the caregivers. Also, understanding how best to interact withage of 6. These are children in pivotal years that determine children so they develop in positive, productive ways may betheir physical, emotional, social, and cognitive wellbeing. challenging for parents, especially those who are new or young.Time and again, studies reveal specifics of what weinstinctively know to be true: Parenting matters. Purdue Health & Human Sciences (HHS) Extension empowers these families — with programs that encourage familyBut for two-thirds of those children, all parents are in communication and connectedness and that help secondarythe workforce — limiting quality developmental time caregivers make sure children remain physically activewith a parent and frequently placing kids with secondary during the day.

Reducing childhood 93% IMIL participants Emphasizing the value ofobesity in Indiana indicating they could use a parent’s presence the information learnedAmerica’s childhood obesity numbers have doubled Research reinforces that consistent, responsive, andover the last 30 years, contributing to increased 94% IMIL Participants indicating involved parental presence in children’s lives helps theirinstances of cardiovascular disease and other health what they learned applied physical, emotional, cognitive, and social wellbeing.concerns as those children age. to their work Many times, parents who observe their child’s behaviorIndiana’s obesity rate among children ages 2 to 4 500 Parenting counts and worry they’re doing a“bad job”may simplyis slightly above the U.S. average. Because most of participants not be aware of how to read behavior as it relatesIndiana’s children under 6 have parents who work, in 2014 to development. Parenting Counts is another HHSsecondary childcare providers — whether it’s family, Extension program providing parents and caregiversfriends, or at a facility — exert great influence on a with important perspective and expert advice.child’s daily nutrition and physical activity. The program focuses on parents and caregiversHHS Extension’s I am Moving, I am Learning (IMIL) of children under age 5 — offering 13 sessions toprogram tries to reduce childhood obesity in help them raise healthy, well-rounded children.Indiana by offering lessons in structured movement Topics for these hourlong sessions include basicexperiences to these childcare providers. IMIL child development principles, stress management,helps caregivers ensure that children meet national communication, literacy, and school readiness. Parentsguidelines for daily physical activity, understand the learn how best to talk with and read to their child,link between physical activity and mental acuity, how to help their child cope with emotions and stress,bridge cultural gaps to get kids moving, promote and how to confidently make parental decisions. Inoutdoor activity when possible, and teach kids basic 2014, parents participating in at least four Parentingbuilding blocks of nutrition. Counts lessons made significant, positive changes in their parenting beliefs and behaviors.In 2014, nearly 100 Indiana childcare providersparticipated in IMIL. They learned how to design The greatest changes came in appropriate responsesenvironments and use vocabulary words that to newborn babies based on communication cues,promote movement, incorporate more song and encouraging productive ways for children to handledance activities, make use of existing or inexpensive stress, and gaining patience in understanding tantrumsitems, and convey this information to staff members. as a natural, normal aspect of child development.Nearly all participants indicated that they could use 13 Indiana counties Purdue Extension is reducing hungerwhat they learned, and virtually all were satisfied represented by Parenting among Indiana children. Learn howwith the program and its instructors. Counts Participants on Page 30. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 29

Strengthening Indiana’s FamiliesHelping families spend smart Building blocks of development Purdue Health & Humanand eat right Sciences (HHS) Extension Did you know children can develop a wealth of skills in math, is empowering familiesPurdue HHS Extension continues its work to end hunger in science, physical activity, vocabulary, pre-reading, creativity, to make healthyIndiana by teaching low-income families how to eat right and problem-solving just by playing with blocks? choices for theirwhile spending smart. children and Purdue HHS Extension’s Block Party program promotes the future.Through informal, easily accessible programs and rule-free play with blocks of all sizes between parents andpartnerships, the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education children aged 8 months to 8 years.Program (EFNEP) and the Supplemental Nutrition AssistanceProgram – Education (SNAP-Ed) help those making food Children also learn how to share, take turns, negotiate, anddecisions on limited budgets choose wisely for themselves control their impulses — all of which predict better schooland their families. performance and fewer problem behaviors later in their childhood.In 2015, about 800,000 individuals received food assistance.Whether directly or indirectly, EFNEP and SNAP-Ed programsdelivered through HHS Extension reached over half of themwith instruction in diet quality, food safety and security,shopping behaviors, and physical activity.Household food security among SNAP-Ed participantsimproved 25% from baseline measurements to a one-yearfollow-up. Through SNAP-Ed, Purdue Extension is reducinghunger in Indiana households with children. 25%Increasein food security among SNAP-Ed participants Learn more about Purdue Extension and contact your local county office extension.purdue.edu

A comforting, The classreassuring really openedresource for my eyes not justparents to finances but other everydayThese are just a handful of things.Purdue Health & Human -Melissa IveySciences (HHS) Extensionprograms that promote Local Faces to save money. With their busy schedules,family engagement and the family of six often relied on takeoutstability, offer parents Roughly 38 million households nationwide meals on the go.assistance in being an live paycheck to paycheck, nearly half of “You may not think it’s much week byeffective role model, Americans have no emergency savings, week, but across a year, the amount is aand give suggestions on and 66% lack a monthly spending plan. huge shock,” she says.achieving family goals. In 2014, Purdue HHS Extension’s Where Melissa found the class’s focus on goal- Does Your Money Go? helped 377 Indiana setting helpful — such as creating crockpotPurdue Extension provides residents — like Melissa and Tim Ivey of dinner ideas for busy nights. The Iveys nowresources for Indiana’s Huntington — learn basic concepts and dine out about 50% less and continue tonext generation — and skills in financial literacy and budgeting. use the financial tools they learned.those who care for them — “I went into the class with a mindset of “This program has something to benefitthat strengthen families ‘I know about finances,’ ” says Melissa, a everyone,” Melissa says. “In my line ofstatewide. credit union financial operations manager. work, I see people struggling with money “The class really opened my eyes not just every day. I’ve referred some clients and a to finances but other everyday things.” coworker to the class.” Learning how to create a spending plan and budget helped the Iveys identify ways Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 31

BuildingIndiana’sfoodsystems Feeding Indiana’s appetite for local food systems More and more, Indiana residents are asking for food grown or produced in the places they call home. That’s because local food systems create connections to culture and community, accessible outlets for nutritious options, and strong economic impacts. With proper resources from Purdue Extension, communities can help large-volume buyers purchase locally grown food all year.

Sensible strategies to Nourishing economic,jumpstart community nutritional, and social healthefforts Each group gained a better understanding of local food systems,The Rebuilding Your Local Food System program — essential factors for their success, ways to improve or rebuildcreated by Purdue Agriculture & Natural Resources (ANR) processes, and how the benefits transcend dollars.Extension — aims to expand this economic potential byhelping communities strategically increase the production, The Elkhart County Foodshed Initiative launched a website, publication,distribution, and sales of local foods. and event series. It also proposed a creative partnership that could stabilize area farm jobs and income, address youth health and foodIn a yearlong 2014 pilot, program leaders met monthly with insecurity, and promote job skills to empower prisoners upon release.groups in Elkhart County and Batesville to help them identify The partnership would connect minimum-security prison resources (e.g.,useful community assets, tour examples of successful food kitchen, food storage, labor, and job training) to local schools seekingsystems, engage with experts, create professional networks, to buy healthy, fresh food that has been locally grown and processed atpresent at national conferences, and more. prices appropriate for free- or reduced-lunch programs.In a yearlong 2014 pilot, program leaders met monthly The Batesville Food and Growers Association hopes to increase thewith groups in Elkhart County and Batesville to guide them number and profitability of small- and mid-sized farmers byin identifying useful community assets, tour examples improving area training and education. Empowered by Extension’sof successful food systems, engage with experts, create program, the association received a $30,000 planning grant to exploreprofessional networks, present at national conferences, creating a Southern Indiana Farmer Training Initiative (SIFTI). Amongand more. other goals, SIFTI would identify test plots, offer training courses, find commercial kitchens that process local foods, and create signage to identify local growers and foods. $5,000 Using a $5,000 federal grant, Purdue Extension’s Local Foods Program held eight workshops last spring at seven locations across Indiana to help over 75 farmers 2015 federal grant for Extension and ranchers apply for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grants. grant-writing workshops In October 2015, Indiana received $606,415 in USDA grants toward promoting $606,415 farmers markets and local foods that will go directly to nine separate applicants. That’s a 120% increase in federal funding to Indiana’s farming operations over 2015 USDA grants given directly FY14 and a 12,000% return on investment of the initial $5,000 grant. to Indiana applicants as a result Purdue Extension will expand 2016 grant-training opportunities this spring by posting information online. What’s next on the menu for Purdue Extension local food systems? See Page 34. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 33

Building Indiana’s Food SystemsWhat’s next Generating climate research Promoting food safetyon the menu? and education in fresh produceAfter reviewing results from By giving farmers expert information and practical tools, The Purdue ANR Extension Good Agricultural PracticesRebuilding Your Local Food Purdue Extension protects corn and soybeans —a $50 billion (GAPS) program teaches principles of on-farm food safetySystem pilot programs, the piece of America’s annual economy — from short- and long- to fruit and vegetable growers while maintaining consumerLocal Foods team will apply term climate variations. confidence in Indiana produce.findings to expand it into moreIndiana communities. Several Educators and Specialists from Purdue Agriculture Extension’s Food Safety Educator and one of its Vegetable & Natural Resources (ANR) Extension are integral members Specialists lead a team offering in-person and onlineThanks to Purdue Extension, of Useful to Usable (U2U), a nine-university climate research workshops to help producers meet safety regulations.Indiana communities are and education program. U2U training, resources, and online Extension also co-publishes Food Safety for Fruit andfinding sustainable ways to tools let Corn Belt farmers and agricultural advisers make Vegetable Farms, which addresses prevention of foodborneincrease economic development smart decisions about increasingly variable climate and illness outbreaks at all crop stages.through local food systems and weather.address concerns about health In 2014, over 340 fruit and vegetable producers attendedand food insecurity. A 2014 survey of about 7,000 Midwest producers and 19 GAPS sessions. Over 80% planned to change practices in advisers improved U2U’s understanding of the industry’s at least one area of food safety and half planned to change climate information needs, beliefs, trusted sources, and risk practices in all areas. management strategies. Based on those results, Educators and Specialists will increase training at popular farmer and adviser events. Learn more about Purdue Extension and contact your local county office extension.purdue.edu

We recognized the Local Facesvalue of PurdueExtension as a Kathy Cooley, a dietitian and small-farmresource from the operator, wants to get healthy, fresh foodget-go. They really to low-income families. It is a goal sheopened our eyes to shared with a local nun, so a few yearsthe possibilities. ago the pair helped start the Food and Growers Association, a food growers group Kathy Cooley in Batesville. Through the Rebuilding Your Local Food Dietitian System program, Purdue Extension Specialists and Educators recently led the Food and Growers Association through educational programs and field trips. Extension also assisted the association in its strategic planning process to establish goals and objectives. “We recognized the value of Purdue Extension as a resource from the get-go,” says Cooley, who, with her family, operates a blueberry farm. “They really opened our eyes to the possibilities.” Some of those possibilities include specialty-crop seminars for local producers and teaching people how to cook fresh foods. They also learned about creating a local food asset map, which determines existing community resources and requirements to reach goals. Purdue Extension | 2015 Annual Report 35

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