Several agents reported that their activities designed to allow 4-H youth to share their knowledge with others, who do not have the opportunity to have hands-on experience with live farm animals, were very popular and successful. Agent Travella R. Free stated that 1100 youth participated in Animal Days held at NCA&T State University. While a pre-test indicated that 60 percent of these youth believed that food originated in the grocery store, the post-test indicated that 98 percent of the youth increased their knowledge regarding the role of agriculture in their lives. Area Dairy Agent Sheila Jordan reported that a "Day At The Dairy" was held in Guilford county, allowing youth to experience how a cow is milked, how milk is handled, and how dairy cattle are raised and managed. Youth learned that cows have a four-chambered stomach, eat many by-product feeds, and that milk is used to make ice-cream, which they also enjoyed. Other camps and demonstrations introduced youth to shearing lambs, spinning wool, fitting and showing animals, and animal by-products.

The historical flood provided many valuable lessons for 4-H'ers in Pitt County. Members of the Pitt County 4-H Livestock Club helped evacuate flood trapped residents, served over 3,000 burgers in shelters, assisted with sandbagging activities, and donated clothes and money to flood relief efforts. Pitt County 4-H Agent Dale Panaro reported that through this experience, the youth truly learned what an impact they can have in their community.

Traditional 4-H Youth Programs remain strong and continue to grow, with strong support from organizations like the North Carolina Dairy Youth Foundation, the North Carolina Cattlemen's Association, and the North Carolina Pork Council. Interest and participation in livestock and dairy judging, Stockman's Bowl, Dairy Quiz Bowl, and showing livestock and dairy cattle continues to grow. Agents report that lamb and meat goat projects are increasing, as did participation in the State 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl, and State Dairy Judging Contest, in 1999. Participating youth and alumni of 4-H animal programs continue to recognize the enhancement of life skills that result from participation in these programs.

CEMP 04 Co-Chairs:

Steve Washburn

Ben Chase

CEMP # 5 - CHILD CARE

Program Description:

The child care Cooperative Extension Major Program has two goals. These goals are to 1. Improve the quality of child care in North Carolina and 2. To increase the availability of child care in North Carolina. To carry out the first goal, Cooperative Extension Agents (mainly Family and Consumer Science and 4-H) conduct training on a variety of topics. This is a traditional role for the Cooperative Extension as an arm of the research university. However, a major new role for agents is in securing financial support in the form of grants and collaborations which serve to support the second goal of increasing the availability of child care.

Abstract/overview:

The needs of the child care community are diverse. Primary among them is the need to improve the quality of care provided by staff through appropriate training. Agents report having trained at least 8,900 child care providers in 1999. More importantly 5,521 of these providers report that they increased their knowledge, attitudes and skills as a result of this training and 4,667 report implementing quality child care practices in one or more of the state mandated functional areas (topics). It is not surprising therefore that parents, child care providers and school personnel report that 23,524 children improved in social/emotional, cognitive, and physical development in the centers where staff received CES training. Thus the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service has an important impact on the 72,651 children reached by these child care

providers.

Child Care continues to be an underfunded community need. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service has begun to seek collaborative relationships and grant funding to alleviate this need. Agents report developing or sustaining at least 833 collaborative relationships in support of child care. No other agency, local or statewide, could have such a statewide impact on the child care issue. Acting in collaboration with other community groups Cooperative Extension Agents have generated at least $984,925 to support child care at the local level. In addition, Agents report that they manage $1,570,566 in child care dollars. These amounts do not include the $1,748,360 in grant funds generated by the Departments of 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Science.

Increasing child care availability is sometimes a lengthy process which begins with technical assistance in the form of training, phone calls and site visits. North Carolina Cooperative Extension Agents report that 1,149 potential providers reported improving their knowledge of the child care field and 2,422 current providers reported improving knowledge and skills.

Volunteers play an important role in the effort to increase availability and improve quality in child care. In 1999, 2,515 volunteers contributed 48,692 hours of service. At $10 per hour this equates to $486,920 dollars worth of service to the community.

The most direct evidence of the impact of the work of CES Agents is in the 3,328 new slots for children and the 123 new centers or family child care homes that were created across the state in 1999. This translates into 3,328 children who have care and 123 centers and homes that are now members of the child care industry because of the efforts of the Agents of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.

Number of Units reporting accomplishments: Objective 1- 54 counties reporting accomplishments; 4 counties reporting no accomplishments

Objective 2 - 35 counties reporting accomplishments; 3 counties reporting no accomplishments

5. Statewide Measures of Progress totals: Objective 1

1. Child care providers will have improved knowledge, attitudes and skills in one or more of the state mandated functional areas.

YOUTH - # OF PROVIDERS REPORTING AN INCREASE: 257

YOUTH - # OF PROVIDERS TRAINED: 554

YOUTH - # OF CHILDREN REACHED BY YOUTH PROVIDERS: 3,658

YOUTH - # OF CUMULATIVE TRAINING HOURS FOR YOUTH PROVIDERS: 2,021

FAMILY CHILD CARE - # OF PROVIDERS REPORTING AN INCREASE: 803

FAMILY CHILD CARE - # OF PROVIDERS TRAINED: 1,341

FAMILY CHILD CARE - # OF CHILDREN REACHED BY PROVIDERS: 9,374

FAMILY CHILD CARE - # OF CUMULATIVE TRAINING HOURS FOR PROVIDERS: 7,102

CENTER CARE - # OF STAFF REPORTING AN INCREASE: 2,911

CENTER CARE - # OF STAFF TRAINED: 5,258

CENTER CARE - # OF CHILDREN REACHED BY STAFF: 41,486

CENTER CARE - # OF CUMULATIVE TRAINING HOURS FOR STAFF: 21,807

SCHOOL-AGE CARE - # OF PROVIDERS REPORTING AN INCREASE: 1,550

SCHOOL-AGE CARE - # OF PROVIDERS TRAINED: 1,747

SCHOOL-AGE CARE - # OF CHILDREN REACHED BY PROVIDERS: 18,133

SCHOOL-AGE CARE - # OF CUMULATIVE TRAINING HOURS FOR PROVIDERS: 9,682

2. Child care providers will implement quality child care practices in one or more of the state mandated functional areas.

# OF YOUTH PROVIDERS REPORTING IMPLEMENTATION: 160

# OF FAMILY CHILD CARE PROVIDERS REPORTING IMPLEMENTATION: 692

# OF CENTER-STAFF REPORTING IMPLEMENTATION: 2,753

# OF SCHOOL-AGE CHILD CARE PROVIDERS REPORTING IMPLEMENTATION: 1,062

Objective 2

1. Developed or sustained community collaborative relationships that support child care?

# OF COMMUNITY COLLABORATIVES DEVELOPED OR SUSTAINED THAT SUPPORT CHILD CARE: 833

2. Developed or sustained community networking relationships that

support child care?

# OF NETWORKS DEVELOPED OR SUSTAINED THAT SUPPORT CHILD CARE: 3,922

3. Developed resources that support child care?

DOLLAR AMOUNT EXTENSION MANAGES: $1,570,566

DOLLAR AMOUNT EXTENSION GENERATES THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS: $984,925

4. Providers and potential providers receiving technical assistance will report an increase in knowledge and skills in increasing or maintaining child care availability?

# OF POTENTIAL PROVIDERS INCREASING KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 1,146

# OF CURRENT PROVIDERS INCREASING KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 2,422

Statewide Impact totals:

Objective 1

1. Children in quality child care improve in social-emotional, cognitive, and physical development as reported by parents, providers, and school personnel.

# OF CHILDREN DEMONSTRATING IMPROVEMENT: 23,524

2. Total number of all cumulative training hours @ $20 per hour for all types of providers.

NUMBER OF HOURS CONDUCTING TRAINING: 39,373

Volunteers Involved

Number 1,305

Hours 27,606

Dollar value - $276,060

Program Cost/Benefit analysis

$ Value to targeted audience $3,234,015

Estimated program cost $1,619,696

Objective 2

1. New slots as a result of direct Extension educational efforts or technical assistance?

# OF NEW SLOTS: 3,328

2. New centers/homes as a result of direct Extension educational efforts or technical assistance?

# OF NEW CENTERS/HOMES: 123

3. Dollar value of slots Extension created: Calculated as number of slots Extension created multiplied by median family income divided by # of child care eligible children in family?

LOCAL VALUE OF MEDIAN FAMILY INCOME: $1,292,287

DIVIDED BY THE # OF ELIGIBLE CHILDREN: $11,582

Volunteers Involved

Number 1,210

Hours 21,086

Dollar Value $210,860

Program Cost/Benefit Analysis

$ Value to targeted audience - $5,569,609

$ Estimated program cost - $1,622,177

7. Volunteers involved and value:

Objective 1 - 1,305 volunteers involved

27,606 hours

$276,060 value @ $10/hour

Objective 2 - 1,210 volunteers involved

21,086 hours

$210,860 value @ $10/hour

Success Stories:

Objective 1 - Training conducted by the CES results in positive effects on staff turnover.

Wilkes County: "When new hires were asked why they wanted to work with Wilkes County 4-H they often said because of the positive reputation the program had and because...they felt comfortable and prepared for their jobs."

Ashe County: As a result of the training offered "the staff turnover rate has been reduced by 20 percent resulting in a feeling of security for children."

Objective 2 - NC CES Agents are successful in increasing the availability of child care and networking to bring resources to the community.

Jackson County: "A new day care center providing space for 60 children will soon be a reality in Jackson County. With over 100 children on the waiting list this center puts quite a dent in the day care picture."

Northampton County: A parent of a student in the after school program started by CES reported that "had it not been for the after school program, her child would not have passed the end of the grade test."

Lee County: Cooperative Extension collaborates with the Lee County Partnership for Children and the Child Care subsidy program. In the past six months Lee County CES has assisted 22 individuals in obtaining information on how to start a child care business , and 3 family home providers have opened for business.

Narrative

The number of counties reporting progress in child care has increased again this year under objective 2; from 33 counties in 1998 to 35 counties in 1999. Given that the work reported under objective 2 is somewhat non-traditional, it is encouraging to note that Agents are adopting new methods of meeting the child care needs in their communities. Objective 1 on the other hand showed a decrease of counties reporting. The numbers are down from the 57 counties in 1998 to 54 counties in 1999. This is despite a rise in the amount of training conducted and increases in all measures of success. In 1999 the Cooperative Extension System began a five year initiative in support of child care programming by Agents. The number of counties who add child care to their county plan of work should increase next year and in subsequent years as a result of this initiative.

The needs of the child care community are diverse. Primary among them is the need to improve the quality of care provided by staff through appropriate training. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service is uniquely capable of serving these training needs. The state Department of Human Resources has mandated 13 training areas or topics that all child care providers must have. Cooperative Extension Agents have updated their training to fit the mandated topics.

Agents report having trained at least 8,900 child care providers in 1999. More importantly 5,521 of these providers report that they increased their knowledge, attitudes and skills as a result of this training and 4,667 report implementing quality child care practices in one or more of the mandated functional topics. It is not surprising that parents, child care providers and school personnel report that 23,524 children improved in social/emotional, cognitive, and physical development in the centers where staff received CES training. Thus the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service has an important impact on the 72,651 children reached by these child care providers. Future research needs to be conducted on the impact of Cooperative Extension training on staff turnover.

Child Care continues to be an underfunded community need. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service has begun to seek collaborative relationships and grant funding to alleviate this need. The 3,922 networks that Agents report developing or sustaining are evidence of the strength of the CES in local communities. In addition Agents report developing or sustaining at least 833 collaborative relationships in support of child care. No other agency, local or statewide, could have such an impact on the child care issue. Acting in collaboration with other community groups Cooperative Extension Agents have generated at least $984,925 to support child care at the local level. In addition Agents report that they manage $1,570,566 in child care dollars. These amounts do not include the $1,748,360 in grant funds generated by the Departments of 4-H Youth Development and Family and Consumer Science.

Increasing child care availability is sometimes a lengthy process which begins with technical assistance in the form of training, phone calls and site visits. North Carolina Cooperative Extension Agents report that 1,149 potential providers reported improving the knowledge of the child care field and 2,422 current providers reported improving knowledge and skills.

Volunteers play an important role in the effort to increase availability in child care. In 1999 2,515 volunteers contributed 48,692 hours of service. At $10 per hour this equates to $486,920 dollars worth of service to the community. The North Carolina CES will need to develop training specific to child care for the volunteers who assist agents in this field.

The most direct evidence of the impact of the work of CES Agents is in the 3,328 new slots for children and the 123 new centers or family child care homes that were created across the state in 1999. This translates into 3,328 children who now have care and 123 centers and homes that are now members of the child care industry because of the efforts of the Agents of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.

CEMP committee members and co-chairs:

Carolyn Dunn, Food and Nutrition Specialist

Karen DeBord, Child Development Specialist

P. Carolyn Goodman, FCS Agent Ashe County

Wanda Hardison, FCS Agent Harnett County, Co-Chair

Julie Landry, 4-H Agent Ashe County

Carolyn McKinney, 4-H Agent Mitchell County

Howard Scott, County Director/4-H Agent Wayne County

Carrie Thompson, FCS Agent Nash County

Barbara Vandenbergh, 4-H Specialist - Co-Chair

Deborah Womack, FCS Agent Forsyth County

Lou Woodard, 4-H Agent Johnston County

CEMP # 6 - COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

I. Brief Program Description: This cooperative extension major program has four major objectives: (1) integrating special audiences into the local community development process; (2) teaching economic development concepts to local leaders; (3) informing local leaders and citizens about economic trends and their expected impacts on the local economy; and (4) facilitating business development assistance by bringing together local private expertise with local needs for business management information.

II. Abstract: Significant efforts to address community and rural economic needs were conducted in 1999. Citizens were involved in efforts to address community leadership, community services and needs of Hispanic and special needs populations, development of plans for infrastructure improvement, down town revitalization, and establishment of new enterprises. Grants were used in many counties to acquire educational resources, and support and complement efforts of other programs and agencies. Primary areas of accomplishment were in tourism development, addressing needs of Hispanic populations, community development and leadership development. Sustainable tourism has become a significant program area. Agents and others have participated in tours of other states to learn about development opportunities, have established tourism plans in selected counties and created heritage, ecological and agricultural tourism meetings, workshops, and programs. Interest in citizens and officials has increased and new enterprises are beginning to emerge. In a number of counties the year-round Hispanic population has increased tremendously. Programs are being developed and implemented to provide community services, opportunities and information for this population. Many programs strive to assist with language barriers providing materials in Spanish and language class opportunities. Community development continues to be a strong component of extension efforts. Many programs across the state strive to bring the programs and resources of the university related to GIS, strategic planning, community design, enterprise development to citizens and local government leaders to assist in addressing community issues, assisting in new opportunities for revitalization of communities, assisting in housing issues for people, and developing markets for local producers. Finally, leadership development through Community Voices and Voices Reaching Vision and other programs help local groups and individuals develop skills to determine their own future as individuals, many participates have used skills to become elected officials, as communities by developing plans and garnering grants, and by organizing groups to address particular issues or community needs.

III. Units Reporting Accomplishment:

Objective 1: 22 counties reporting accomplishments

Objective 2: 8 counties reporting accomplishments

Objective 3: 8 counties reporting accomplishments

Objective 4: 9 counties reporting accomplishments

IV. Statewide Measures of Progress Totals:

Objective 1 Special audiences will use information about community services and the community development process to gain skills to participate in community development.

• Number of participants gaining awareness and knowledge: 727

Total number of participants: 802

• Number participating in groups: 2123

Total number of participants: 3396

• New community organizations formed: 16
• New community development projects formed: 51

Objective 2 Public and private community leaders will use economic development concepts to implement policies promoting sustainable economic development.

• Number of participants gaining awareness and knowledge of computer models, videos, and fact sheets: 796
• Applications made of computer models: 22
• Applications made of videos: 29
• Applications made of fact sheets: 53

Objective 3 Local leaders, business persons, and educators will acquire information about economic trends affecting local economic opportunities.

• Number of persons attending conferences who increased their awareness and knowledge: 1115
• Number of requests for additional information: 393

Objective 4 Existing business persons and potential business persons will acquire information about beginning and running a successful business, including small and home-based businesses.

• Number of persons attending workshops: 525
• Number of applications made of videos, notebooks, and fact sheets: 52
• Number of persons increasing their awareness and knowledge of opportunities: 319
• Number of persons increasing their awareness and knowledge of market plans and community analysis: 226

. Statewide Impact Totals

Objective 1 Special audiences will use information about community services and the community development process to gain skills to participate in community development.

• Number of special audience persons participating in local public hearings: 847
• Number of additional special audience persons participating in voting: 113
• Number of additional special audience persons participating in the labor force: 86
• Number of additional special audience person participating in the community development process: 613
• Number of additional special audience persons participating in community development organizations: 1470

Objective 2 Public and private community leaders will use economic development concepts to implement policies promoting sustainable economic development.

• Number of persons attending local conferences and distance learning conferences: 212

2. Percentage of persons rating conference information useful: 97%

• Businesses and payrolls attracted to counties as a result of educational information: 3 businesses payroll $8,000

Objective 3 Local leaders, business persons, and educators will acquire information about economic trends affecting local economic opportunities.

• Percentage of conference participants rating conference information useful: 66%
• Number of guidance counselors using information: 30
• Value of lines of newspaper stories on subject, at $1.50 per line for 17138 lines: $25707
• Value of radio time on subject, at $20 per minute, for 131 minutes: $2620
• Value of TV time on subject, at $100 per minute, for 97 minutes: $9700

Objective 4 Existing business persons and potential business persons will acquire information about beginning and running a successful business, including small and home-based businesses.

• Number of small and home based business start-ups and annual payroll resulting form educational efforts: 29 start-ups $99750 annual payroll
• Number of small and home based business plans developed: 15
• Number of persons increasing their income through participation in the community development process: 132
• Number of community analyses performed: 2

VI. Volunteers and Value

Objective 1

Number: 670

Hours: 3479

Value @ $10/hour: $34,790

Objective 2

Number: 86

Hours: 897

Value @ $10/hour: $8,970

Objective 3

Number: 157

Hours: 2366

Value @ $10/hour $23,660

Objective 4

Number: 50

Hours: 492

Value @ $10/hour $4,920

VII. Success Stories

Numerous examples of successful programs fall into the categories of community development, economic development, tourism, and disaster recovery.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

FIRST TIME COMMUNITY APPLICANT RECEIVES $7,500 REWARD! A southwest NC community is the recipient of a $7,500 neighborhood-matching grant created, edited, advised and technically supported by the Cooperative Extension Service. The funding has been invaluable to the 54 youth with the purchase of 16 cheerleading uniforms and 400 basketball jerseys. Much needed office equipment and general office supplies has increased communication efforts to the 825 homeowners and 4 youth teams formed as a result. Extension maintained continuity throughout the process with emphasis on adhering to guidelines as specified in the grant. The community has accomplished its goal by exceeding the required 758 matching hours of volunteer contacts and has increased their capacity building skills.

On the opposite end of the state, the Cherokee Reservation Extension Staff, Community Club leaders and over 400 volunteers worked together to develop the 2nd phase of the Oconaluftee Island Park. Partnership has been developed with the NCDHENS, EPA, and NRCS to do projects on the island. Over two hundred thousand dollars has been raised by this group to build an amphitheater, walking track, restrooms and a water fountain. During the past year over 300,000 people have used the island park for recreation, family gatherings and fitness. (Walking path and fitness center). This project has had an economic impact of over $50,000 for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

TOURISM

Tourism is the second largest industry in Western NC, and according to a survey conducted in the High Country, the residents do NOT want the region to become another "Gatlinburg." Extension partnered with Appalachian State University, several departments at NCSU, A&T State University, Western NC Development Association and over 75 citizens to have a very successful Sustainable Tourism Conference in the High Country in April 1999. This conference focused on Agritourism, nature-based, and cultural/heritage tourism, and public policy. Internationally known and respected speakers presented at this two-day workshop. Over 150 participants attended with very good to excellent evaluations, and a desire to continue to have workshops in the area of Sustainable Tourism, Land-use Management, and conserving and protecting green space. One farmer responded with, "there were many valuable lessons for me--START SMALL, perhaps the best lesson of all."

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Anson County is in desperate need to attract new industries with the recent closing of several textile industries here in the County. The local extension agent was able to contact and meet with a Chicken Breeder Company that was interested in building a new 6 million dollar hatchery that would employ 60 people. Through this contact and aiding the local economic developer in finding 6 sites for the company to look at, the company has purchased 52 acres and started building the facility. The agent along with the Economic Developer appeared in front of the zoning board to answer questions for rezoning of property.

In another program in Columbus County, the Community Farmer's Market was established as a result of $10,000 RAFI grant. Local market up and running under leadership of Milton Parker and local committee made up of CES, FSA, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Development and tobacco growers. Market opened up in May and had 25 vendors actively sell their local fruits, vegetables and ornamentals to a large number of customers across Columbus County. In addition, with the assistance of a member of the N.C. House of Representatives $25,000 was secured for the market's permanent site. 12 growers qualified for the WIC program. A number of local and downtown merchants strongly support the Columbus Farmer's market. This market is also endorsed by the County Commissioners and the Whiteville City Council.

DISASTER RECOVERY

Hurricanes Dennis and Floyd caused extensive damage to the property of families in the Speed Community. Extension personnel worked with the members of the Speed Community Development Organization to secure names, ages and needs of families and this information was shared with Reidsville Ministrial Alliance and the Extension Staff at N.C. A & T State University. The two groups adopted 43 families and have contributed over $5,375 in cash and merchandise. The Community Organization has operated a distribution center and have received contributions of food, clothing and households goods from New York to Florida and have provided assistance to 306 families with a value of $145,350.00

Extension staff's in several flood-affected counties hosted congressional leaders from across the U. S. to show devastation in the rural areas. The N. C. delegation in Congress requested $787 million in Ag Disaster Relief in the wake of Hurricane Floyd. This request was partially a result of these tours. We also arranged for meetings between congressional leaders and farmers. Extension called special discussion meetings with producers on disaster assistance. Extension suggestions were a large part of the state and federal disaster packages. Extension arranged for a state legislator to ride with us in a helicopter to assess damage. This legislator used this plus aerial pictures Extension took to share with the Speaker of the House, Governor Hunt, and legislative leaders as he requested financial aid.

VII. Narrative

Program efforts fall primarily in four areas: Sustainable Tourism, Community Development, Hispanic Audiences, and Leadership Development. Some efforts build on established programs and strengths where as others are responding to new identified needs and opportunities.

Sustainable Tourism

Recognizing the need and opportunity for rural communities and individuals to take advantage of the burgeoning tourism industry, extension faculty toured the Northeast to gain a better understanding of agri/eco tourism businesses, how to conduct programs to help those who wish to establish a business, and the kinds of linkages needed to make tourism successful. Four workshops have been conducted as a result of this tour and associated research, enterprises are now in the process of being developed from these and other workshops around the state. One CRD/Ag Agent has been instrumental in the formation of the NC Chapter of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail in NC. CES presently assists with logistics for the association and educating the general public about the culture/heritage trail of the Cherokee Nation within the surrounding counties.

Community Development

Community development efforts cover a broad area from assisting with Networking with Family CHAMPIONS (Collaborating to Help and Assist More People In Obtaining Necessary Services), Smart Start, Dream Center, and Habitat for Humanity has provided an opportunity for Extension to provide educational opportunities to involve/engage citizens in the utilization of the community services available to them. As well as, get them involved in community development. In one county efforts with Habitat with Humanity resulted in homes being built and families placed. In another strategic planning has helped the a community revitalization committee to gain a better understanding of the process and their responsibility as a committee. They are further interested in utilizing the expertise of the School of Design, NCSU, for a downtown revitalization project. Assistance also has been provided in the development of the Clay County Communities Revitalization Association (CCCRA), which is made up of community and county leaders, business owners, and the general public. Working with the WNC Development Association and Handmade in America, the Revitalization Committees have recognized the general needs of the town and surrounding communities, and is currently in the process of developing a strategy to meet those needs. Local officials and citizens attended the Technology Expo Co-sponsored by Cooperative Extension and were introduced to the GIS being developed at NCSU. Citizens were impressed with the available resource and members of the local planning board and County and Town Planners indicated that this would be a resource that would be useful in planning and economic development. Communities and individuals have also benefitted from efforts that have created new enterprises, for example a new 2 acre pick-your-own strawberry enterprise was begun following a special educational meeting held in late summer 1998. Three stands have opened or reopened as a result of enterprise development efforts.

Hispanic Audiences

The increasing number of Hispanic/Latino residents has created new opportunities. This population is becoming resident rather than seasonal, and are in need of assistance in learning about and taking advantage of services, educational programs, and other opportunities which are available and to which they are entitled. At least two counties have made it a major priority to provide educational programs, referrals and services that include such aspects as: translating the Community Services Directory into Spanish; English as a second language; educational programs in such things as Pesticide Safety Education; and programs for the women such as basketmaking with hopes of starting a cottage industry.

Leadership Development

Leadership development continues to be a hallmark program for Cooperative Extension. This is exhibited by the continuing success of Community Voices programs that have resulted in positive changes in communities as well as the number of participants who have been elected to leadership positions at the local level. Other leadership efforts have also produced benefits by giving citizens the opportunity and tools to affect change. Examples include the construction of a new town park and the ability to acquire significant anonymous financial donations to accomplish this project.

In another county, the county courthouse restoration video which documents the significance of the 140 year old courthouse was continued with coordination from the local Extension center. Another example is that a follow-up to the 1998 NCSU School of Design study of the Town of Columbus a nine member citizen committee reviewed student recommendations. Extension serves in an ex-officio role to the citizen committee and assisted them with writing a grant proposal for $200,000 of the North Carolina DOT Enhancement Funds. Several communities in Robeson County are part of the Enterprise Community. From previous training in Community Voices some of the citizens in these communities are attempting to improve civic, economic and environmental concerns by developing on-going projects and increasing community awareness. In three communities the have implemented significant beautification projects and have become actively involved in economic recruitment. Although no major industry has located within these communities, many local businesses have increased their employee base providing additional employment opportunity for local citizens.

VIII. CEMP Members

Sue Counts Mitch Renkow

Steve Lilley John Richardson

Mike Walden Ellen Smoak

Chuck Moore Marilyn Cole

John O'Sullivan Glenn Woolard

CEMP # 7 - CROP PRODUCTION AND MARKETING SYSTEMS

Program Focus: The focus of the Crop Production and Marketing Systems CEMP is to develop and deliver crops and marketing systems educational programs that improve the profits of North Carolina's agricultural industry and maintain environmentally safe farms and communities.

Abstract: NCCE staff have conducted programs to provide unbiased information to producers in 77 counties across NC. The growers and the public have learned about market and crop alternatives, more sustainable production practices, improved IPM practices that have reduced pesticide use, gained awareness of environmental concerns and use of biotech products, and gained an appreciation and used global markets for increased profits. These programs made 92,969 audience contacts, which were valued at $38.8 million to the audience and an additional $33.8 million to society and resulted in saving or increased profits of $52 million at a cost of $1.95 million. A total of 2169 volunteers gave 16,667 hours worth $ 166,670. These programs resulted in improved technology, from baling tobacco, to internet diagnosis of pests, to English and Spanish pesticide education, more IPM use, ag consultants received continuing education, and more biotech used. Resources were saved, the environment benefitted, disaster affects relieved, and pesticide use reduced because of this program area.

Number of units reporting

A total of 77 counties reported accomplishments under one or more of the seven objectives: 39 counties reported progress under objective 1, 30 for objective 2, 57 for objective 3, 30 for objective 4, 29 for objective 5, 16 for objective 6, 23 for objective 7.

Statewide measures of progress totals

Objective 1.'Tobacco and peanut farmers evaluate alternatives.'

Measures of Progress: Utilizing/adopting Acres

1. adoption of new market options  1850  

2. adoption of new practices  3921     121381

3. increased awareness and knowledge of alternatives  1329     120885

Program Cost/Benefit Analysis to Date $ Value to Targeted Audience:$ 12870801

Objective 2: 'Part-time and limited resource farmers improve.'.

Measures of Progress: Utilizing/adopting Acres

1. adoption of best management practices 543 37267.1

2. increased awareness and knowledge of marketing options 832

3. increased awareness and knowledge of irrigation 686

4. adoption of use of multiple markets 475

5. adoption of new crops 292 6023

Program Cost/Benefit Analysis To Date $ Value to Targeted Audience:$ 1530535

Objective 3: Evaluate recommended practices for sustainability.

Measures of Progress: Utilizing/adopting Acres

1. adoption of best management practices 6555

2. increased knowledge of production systems 11594

3. stabilized or increased number of farms/crop acreage 3085 82247

4. adoption of practices that lower production costs 5655 754657

Program Cost/Benefit Analysis To Date $ Value to Targeted Audience: $ 8082395

Objective 4: 'New chemicals and practices for the environment and with profitability'.

Measures of Progress: Utilizing/adopting Acres

1. increased awareness and knowledge of IPM practices 5585

2. increased awareness and knowledge of IPM 5961

3. adoption of IMP practices 2347 341016

Program Cost/Benefit Analysis To Date $ Value to Targeted Audience: $ 4210600

Objective 5: 'Environmental regulations and constraints adjustment.

Measures of Progress: Utilizing/adopting Acres

1. awareness and knowledge of best management practices 6445

2. adoption of best management practices such as IPM etc. 3123 386607

3. increased awareness and knowledge of farm regulations and environmental constraints 4984

Program Cost/Benefit Analysis To Date Value to Targeted Audience:$ 4927640

Objective 6: 'Biotech benefits and risk knowledge increased.'

Measures of Progress: Utilizing/adopting Acres

1. increased awareness and knowledge of biotech and applications 3731

2. adoption of biotechnology applications to crop production 2528 245172

3. increased public understanding of safety, benefits of production of genetically engineered crop plants 14454

Program Cost/Benefit Analysis To Date $ Value to Targeted Audience: $ 4592325

Objective 7: 'Agricultural industry learn about and adapt to local and global markets.' Measures of Progress: Utilizing/adopting Acres

1. increased knowledge of impacts of global market trends 5100

2. adoption of practices associated with new products 692

3. adoption of practices that impact marketing successes 1202

Program Cost/Benefit Analysis To Date $ Value to Targeted Audience: $ 2810900

6. State wide Impacts totals

Objective 1.'Tobacco and peanut farmers evaluate alternatives.'

1. profitability increase by adopting new marketing options $4077540  

2. optimizing profitability by adoption of new practices $7187147  

Objective 2. 'Part-time and limited resource farmers improve.'

1. optimize profits through adoption of appropriate new crop production practices, irrigation practices, intensive management systems $1141745

2. optimize profits through diversification of crops $614820

3. continued farm production through adoption of sustainability practices

NUMBER ADOPTING: 293

Objective 3: 'Evaluate recommended practices for sustainability.'

1. Optimize profits $3438060

2. Dollars saved through improved pest management $4807227

3. 'Evaluate recommended practices for sustainability.' $8824098 increase

Objective 4: 'New chemicals and practices for the environment and with profitability'.

1. optimize profits through adoption of IPM practices $3629065

2. reduction in pesticide use POUNDS OF ACTIVE INGREDIENT: 179559

3. dollars saved through adoption of best crop production practices such as nutrient management, crop rotation, scouting, etc. $6156355 saved

Objective 5: 'Environmental regulations and constraints adjustment.'

1. optimize profitability through adoption of best management practices such as IPM strategies, and the proper use of soil, tissue, and waste analyses within environmental and safety regulations. $4923720 increase

Objective 6: 'Biotech benefits and risk knowledge increased.'

1. optimize profits through use of practices associated with production of genetically engineered crop plants $3054835

2. reduced pesticide use through genetic resistance to p pests $1411615

3. non-farm public understands the use, benefits, and risks associated with food, food products, and fiber crops generated from genetic engineering.

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING: 31482

Objective 7: 'Agricultural industry learns of and adapt to local and global markets.'

1. optimize profitability through adoption of local and global marketing strategies

$1538025

2. optimize profits through adoption of and marketing of new product$1176800 and 1. optimize profits through adoption of appropriate new crop production practices, irrigation practices, intensive management systems $1141745

2. optimize profits through diversification of crops $614820

3. continued farm production through adoption of sustainability practices

NUMBER ADOPTING: 293

Statewide impact totals

1. optimize profits through adoption of IPM practices $3629065

2. reduction in pesticide use POUNDS OF ACTIVE INGREDIENT: 179559

3. dollars saved through adoption of best crop production practices such as nutrient management, crop rotation, scouting, etc. $6156355 saved

1. optimize profits through use of practices associated with production of genetically engineered crop plants $3054835

2. reduced pesticide use through genetic resistance to p pests $1411615

3. non-farm public understands the use, benefits, and risks associated with food, food products, and fiber crops generated from genetic engineering.

NUMBER DEMONSTRATING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING: 31482

Objective 7: 'Agricultural industry learns of and adapt to local and global markets.'

Volunteers involved and value No.: Hours: at $ 10/hr:

Objective

1. 'Tobacco and peanut farmers evaluate alternatives.' 319 2571 $ 25710

2. 'Part-time and limited resource farmers improve.' 196 2440 $ 24400

3. 'Evaluate recommended practices for sustainability.' 843 5332 $ 53320

4. 'New chemicals and practices for the environment and with profitability'.

223 1218 $ 12180

5. 'Environmental regulations and constraints adjustment.' 189 1112 $11120

6. 'Biotech benefits and risk knowledge increased.' 283 4368 $ 43680

7. 'Agricultural industry learns of and adapts to local and global markets.' 116 628 $ 6280

Total Volunteers involved and value 2169 16667 $166670

Success Stories

Watauga County, Person Reporting: David Tucker

In an effort to improve the management skills of Christmas tree and ornamental growers, Cooperative Extension conducted a Greenwise Management Program for Watauga County and the surrounding area. Greenwise focused on problem-solving and provided a process that allowed participants to work through barriers that are inherent in the farming business. At the end of the Greenwise Program; most of the participants had created a mission statement which according to Forbes Magazine is essential in the success of a business. Two new Christmas tree growers from Watauga County, stated that the Greenwise program was by far the best management oriented workshop that they had ever been involved in. They also stated that the cost of the program was extremely cheap, at $90 per person, since their daughter had just recently attended a similar workshop involving the same principles for around $1,700.

Person County, Person Reporting: Joey Knight, III

The NCCE conducted the 7th Piedmont North Carolina Area Hay Expo & Forage Management Field Day on June 1, 1999 with approximately 350 people in attendance from Virginia and North Carolina. Over 2 million dollars of hay harvesting equipment was demonstrated from 25 various dealers from both states and 350 people learned about forage management and new technologies in hay harvesting. According to dealer estimates, over $500,000 in sales resulted from this particular field day. Fifty percent of the livestock producers attending adopted at least one of the forage management practices demonstrated that day.

Duplin and Wayne Counties, Person Reporting: Bryant M. Spivey

Baling flue-cured tobacco on the farm became a reality in 1997 with the Cooperative Baling Research Project. Leadership and direction for this project was provided by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service at both the state and county level. Because of this project, 4 tobacco producers baled 180 bales of flue-cured tobacco through cooperation with the Duplin County Extension Center in 1997. In 1998 Duplin County tobacco producers baled over 750 bales of tobacco. Based on current market trends it is estimated that as much as 50% of Duplin County tobacco will be packaged in bales in 1999. The greatest impact of the adoption of baled tobacco is product quality improvement and the maintenance of current market share for North Carolina tobacco producers. Other benefits include lower transportation and storage costs, improved record keeping, less weight loss, and improved product integrity.

Wayne County, Person Reporting: Bryan Page

Extension tobacco agents from Wayne and Duplin held a joint two county tobacco production meeting with 96 producers in attendance. Tobacco baling, a new way to market flue-cured tobacco was one of the topics of this production meeting. This concept increases efficiency and competitiveness of N.C. tobacco. Thus than .01 percent of the crop was baled in 1998 in Wayne County, but baling is rapidly being adopted by farmers for the 1999 growing season. It is estimated that 35-40 percent of the tobacco crop will be baled in 1999 and getting as much as a $.05/pound premium for baled tobacco would increase income by over $300,000 in Wayne in 1999.

Craven, Person Reporting: Billy Dunham

Two hurricanes and 25 inches of water caused major flooding of sections of Craven county. The livestock industry was damaged very much with some units being flooded. Extension helped farmers get many animals to salty and also helped to contain dead animals so that they did not reach public waters. Some 5,000 animals were either cremated or buried. Also, several farmers lost their hay. Some 500 bales of hay was delivered to farmers from areas that were not flooded. This effort was lead by the Extension office and as a result all farmers will be able to carry their animals through the winter.

Forsyth, Davie and Yadkin Counties, Person Reporting: Mark Tucker

The Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) Program was designed to certify agribusiness professionals as possessing a certain level of crop expertise, while providing a means of continually updating this knowledge. CCA's in the Piedmont and Western regions of NC were having difficulty obtaining the updated training, especially as it related to their region of the state. The CES centers in Davie, Yadkin and Forsyth County jointly established the Western Piedmont Certified Crop Advisor Training. The three day event provided 20 hours of advanced training (5 hours per category) in the areas of soil and water, nutrient management, crop production, and pest management. Evaluations indicated that 100 percent of participants (30 persons in 1998, 35 persons in 1999) increased their CCA competencies by attending the training. The training has also established a great working relationship between the Industry CCA's and the local Extension Centers.

Surry County, Person Reporting: Joanna Radford

Low commodity prices promote open-mindedness toward reducing production costs. Many farming operators have cut costs as low as they possibly can. Through educational programs, Extension is aiding farmers with information that will lead them into a future of farming without getting left behind. Baling tobacco is a new technology that has over the past year has become a necessity if producers are wanting to advance. Growers benefit from baling tobacco in numerous ways: labor costs to package tobacco is decreased, tobacco transport to market becomes more efficient, tobacco storage is more efficient and the quality of cured tobacco gains more attention. Baled tobacco saves approximately 4 cents per pound. This year in Surry approximately 60% of the tobacco was baled leading to a $252,640 savings.

Lenoir County, Person Reporting: Wilfred R. Jester

Extension assisted in the organization of 3 roadside stands and one community market that provided marketing outlets for 11 growers. Over $250,000 worth of sales were generated. A roadside marketing packet of educational information was developed and distributed to over 22 people who were interested in developing a direct marketing situation. In all cases the persons who developed these successful roadside stands got many of their ideas from this assembled resource. The community market at Seven Springs operated on Saturday mornings all spring and summer until it was forced to close by the hurricanes. Six to eight farmers and citizens sold baked goods, flowers and produce at the market. They plan continuing their market next season.

Overall narrative of program progress:

The focus of the Crop Production and Marketing Systems CEMP is to develop and deliver programs that improve the profits of North Carolina's agricultural industry, maintain environmentally safe farms and communities, and educate non-farm citizens about farming, food safety, and the importance of agriculture to our economy.

A total of 77 counties reported accomplishments under one or more of the seven objectives; 39 counties reported progress under objective 1, 30 for objective 2, 57 for objective 3, 30 for objective 4, 29 for objective 5, 16 for objective 6, and 23 for objective 7.

The NCCE campus and county faculty offered unbiased, research-based information to North Carolina's full-time farmers, limited resource part-time farmers, non-farm public, and local, regional, and state decision makers. Educational programs on corn, cotton, peanuts, small grains, soybeans and tobacco helped growers make informed decisions about new varieties, nutrient management, waste application, IPM, no-till production, BMPs, use of irrigation, marketing strategies, and many other farm practices. Programs were presented to North Carolina's vegetable, fruit, Christmas tree, greenhouse, and nursery industries enhancing producer knowledge about variety selection, IPM, specialty crops, marketing strategies, and environmental issues. On-farm tests and demonstrations were established in many areas to help evaluate new products and innovative production practices. These sites are particularly valuable as growers must comply with new environmental restrictions and changing government policies. Having the test sites localized provides endless teaching opportunities for agents, farmers, and agribusiness.

Information about disease management through the use of resistant varieties, disease forecasting, scouting, and pesticide selection were presented across the state to help producers reduce production costs, reduce the use of pesticides and increase profits. IPM practices were demonstrated in many counties. A few examples of IPM programs presented by agents and specialists are: tobacco transplant insect management, tobacco blue mold management through timely fungicide application, the use of resistant varieties, disease forecasting for peanuts to reduce unnecessary sprays, scouting for insects in cotton and small grains, use of beneficial insects for pest management are just a . IPM programs were also presented for forestry, forage, ornamental, fruit, and vegetable crops. As part of our continuing development of IPM programs. By using digital cameras and an internet microscopy for remote diagnosis, two counties provided pest diagnosis and proper treatment recommendation within hours instead of days as in the past. Thus resulting in more effective, timely treatment. Diagnoses have included watermelon, corn, cotton, peanuts, cantaloupe, beans, strawberries, and many other commercial crops. Across the state, NCCE IPM programs reached over 5,585 individuals. An estimated 2,347 growers implemented IPM practices affecting over 341,016 acres. Across the state, adoption of IPM practices have the potential for saving growers over $4.2 million and represents a reduction over 179,559 pounds of pesticide active ingredients.

Tobacco is a major contributor to North Carolina's economy and producers are facing an uncertain future. NCCE county and campus faculty provided information to help growers minimize input costs, diversify crops, utilize alternative marketing strategies, and expand the use of float houses to supplement farm income. Educational programs on baling tobacco were the subject of many programs. Baling can reduce handling and transportation costs, increasing profits by five cents per pound.

Approximately 1850 tobacco and peanut growers adopted new market options, with a potential increase in income of over $3.8 million. Over 3921 adopted new production practices, affecting 121,381 acres for possible increase in profits of $9 million.

Over 543 part time, limited resource farmers were assisted in evaluating BMPs for their farm enterprise, affecting approximately 37,267 acres for a potential profit of almost $11.5 million. Programs discussing marketing options were presented to 832 individuals, 475 adopted the use of multiple markets. Diversification is a key to success of part time farmers. NCCE county programs were responsible for 292 part time farmers adopting new crops, affecting 6,023 acres for potential profits of $614,000.

NCCE programs continue to promote sustainable farming systems through continue evaluation of recommended or conventional practices. In 1999, 6,555 growers adopted BMPs and 11,594 increased their awareness of the importance of production systems. Over 5,655 growers adopted practices that lower production costs, affecting 754,657 acres for a potential profit of $4.9 million.

Environmental constraints on production practices has been an issue for many years. Waste management, water quality, responsible pesticide use, have been the focus of many extension programs. Over 6,445 producers increased their awareness of BMPs that impact farm and community environment, with 3,123 adopting improved practices on 386,607 acres. Potential profits for these growers exceeds $4.9 million.

Genetic engineering has led to the creation of new varieties and hybrids that contain herbicide or insect resistance traits. Weed management through the use of herbicide tolerant varieties of soybean, cotton, corn and sweet corn continue to be addressed at many county meetings across the state. Production meetings, field days, and localized on-farm tests have helped growers compare traditional and genetically engineered crops to determine which, if any fit into their farming systems. Over 2528 growers adopted the use of genetically engineered varieties affecting 245,172 acres. Using these varieties, potential profits were estimated to be more than $4.5 million with approximately $1.4 million savings in pesticides. Food safety and non-target influence of these crops has been an issue with many consumer groups and concerned citizens. NCCE educational programs have increased the public awareness of biotechnology, reaching over 40,000 individuals.

Being knowledgeable about markets and developing global marketing strategies that maximize profits were the subject of many NCCE programs. In 1999, 5,100 producers learned about global markets and trade policies with 692 adopting practices associated with new products for estimated profits of $1.5 million. Approximately 1202 individuals adopted strategies that impacted their marketing success, increasing profits by $1.2 million.

Co-chairs D. Sanders, and W. Dunham & members, B. Brown, R. Cobb, S. Hodges, M. Linker, C. McKinley, L. Rogers, M. Shaw, D. Smith, J. Spears, S. Southern

CEMP # 8 - FAMILY AND CONSUMER ECONOMICS

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

CEMP 8 promotes informed personal finance and other consumer decision making by individuals and families, emphasizing education to prevent financial problems For persons who already have serious financial problems, Family and Consumer Education Agents make informed referrals to counseling and intervention services. To help people extend and increase income, FCE Agents provide resource management training for families and family business, and organize experienced volunteers to deliver skill training to youth and families.

ABSTRACT:

Programs in 60 counties assisted 30,109 individuals in increasing their awareness and knowledge of money management, financial/ consumer decision making, financial resources, and or practices to extend or increase income. 1,220 volunteers gave their time to Family and Consumer Economics programs with a value of time of $126,400.

NUMBER OF UNITS REPORTING:

Total Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 60

Objective 1: 29

Objective 2: 25

Objective 3: 19

Objective 4: 29

Objective 5: 16

MEASURES OF PROGRESS AND IMPACT INDICATORS TOTALS

Objective 1:

2,879 in 29 counties reported increased awareness and knowledge about money management and decision-making processes, 1,298 wrote personal goals and 565 attained their personal goals. Debt reduced -- $49,884, dollars saved -- $67, 585.

Objective 2:

8,009 in 25 counties reported increased awareness and knowledge of financial resources. 709 adopted financial planning and record keeping practices. 1,635 reported increased satisfaction with their ability to use resources.

Objective 3:

2,989 in 19 counties reported increased awareness and knowledge of housing financial decisions. 433 reported success in finding, securing, and maintaining housing. 485 reported adoption of successful budgets for housing and 927 succeeded in budgeting for repair, maintenance and/or remodeling costs. 437 succeeded in living independently in their own homes.

Objective 4:

13,776 in 29 counties reported increased awareness and knowledge of consumer decision making skills. 3,252 adopted practices in selecting/caring for consumer products, and 5,469 in selecting/using consumer services. 4,570 increased skill and satisfaction with consumer decisions. Costs avoided through selection and care of consumer goods -- $156,313. Financial status of individuals and families improved by $240,341.

Objective 5:

2,456 in 16 counties reported increased awareness and knowledge of practices to extend or increase income. 1,765 attained skills to produce consumer goods. 798 reported improved use of human and financial resource. Dollars saved through practices to extend income -- $34,570. Income increased through employment -- $120,000. Income increased through self-employment -- $92,740.

VOLUNTEERS INVOLVED:

1,220 Volunteers gave 12,640 hours @$10/hour for a total value of $126,400

OVERVIEW OF 1999 PROGRAM ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

Objective 1 and 2: Basic Money Management for Limited Resource Audiences/Financial Planning for the Life Cycle

Limited resource families continue to develop skills and adopt behaviors which allow them to reach their financial goals, including debt reduction and increased savings. Agents continue to partner with community organizations and agencies to reach audiences and develop new programming including Goodwill, YMCA, Community Colleges, Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies, Family Resource Centers, Work First Participants, correctional and parole units, DSS, the Faith Community, FEMA (for victims of hurricane/flooding) and Habitat for Humanity. Counties have reported work with IDA projects and continue to use the Money In/Money Out curriculum successfully. Additional Marines were reached in ongoing Consumer Financial Specialists training. Participants in the Triad Money Management Center program reported adoption of practices that lead to asset development and improved financial status. News articles and newsletters continue to be effective ways to reach people who can't attend meetings.

Objective 3: Affordable Housing

Educational programs in 19 counties focused on pre-homeowner and post-homeowner education. Curriculum used to meet the needs of the post homeowner education programs was the "My Home Book" curriculum. Other educational efforts reported on included: remodeling and renovation; modular housing; independent living skills; and budgeting for home ownership, selection and care of furnishings, and maintenance and repairs. A series of programs related to clean-up and repair after flooding and other hurricane damage were also conducted in the later months of 1999. Agents received in-service training on Home Modification and Moisture Control in March of 1999.

Objective 4: Consumer Decision Making

Consumer decision programs in 29 counties focused on selecting consumer products and services such as: financial services (credit, saving and investing options); health insurance (Medicare+Choice and LTC); and recognition/avoidance of consumer fraud (telemarketing, credit, and Medicare fraud). Strong partnering with SHIIP and the Attorney General's Office continued in most counties. Wilkes FCEA shared curriculum with professionals in DSS, family counseling and community development to cope with the lack of a credit counseling service, and these professionals have requested additional financial management training. Cleveland FCEA addressed cultural differences in financial management practices among Asian families.

Objective 5: Extending and Increasing Income

Sixteen counties conducted educational efforts to help families extend income. Individuals learned to extend income and/or increase income by developing skills in home improvement and furnishings, home decor, computers, sewing and quilting, basket making and Native American and Mountain Crafts. Three counties conducted educational programs on the new clothing care labels. Counties linked with local producers, Extension Homemakers and other local small and home businesses to extend or increase family income.

SUCCESS STORIES:

Guilford County

Many limited-resource families in Guilford County are in need of sound consumer information and advice to effectively manage their dwindling resources. To address this need, Cooperative Extension in cooperation with Greensboro Urban Ministry Partnership Village Project and Habitat for Humanity sponsored house cleaning workshops for 72 participants focusing on house cleaning made easy. The participants gained knowledge, skills and became aware of ways of keeping their house clean without it being costly to their budget. They learned to organize and prioritize work to get their housekeeping done, how to mix household ingredients to create a homemade window cleaner to help cut costs. As a result, 62 participants learned greater skills and adopted practices to make better use of available resources and improve their home management skills. These participants indicate they saved $201.00 from learning to use inexpensive cleaning supplies. They passed their housing inspections after attending house cleaning workshops.

Anson County

Two programs of "Money In / Money Out" were developed for both the local Community College and high school. The four sessions included information on: individual's value of money, using credit, methods of saving money, budgeting, and setting monetary goals. 100 percent increased their consumer decision-making skills. 85 percent increased their awareness of money resources. 95 percent felt that they had increased their ability to work with their money resources wisely. 80 percent agreed that they had increased their knowledge in saving money and reducing their consumer debt. Each participant at the community college agreed that they could start saving at least $20 per month, which came to a class total of saving $2,800 this year.

Gaston County

In spite of two incomes at professional levels, a young couple was forced into bankruptcy by a spouse's unwise use of credit and lack of attention to family financial status. Both spouses attended all six sessions of a financial workshop "Mixing Money and Marriage". The spouse forced to cope with financial surprises and stress in the past reported the changes in the improvident spouse's financial attitudes and behavior. They filled out the financial worksheets and did the calculations to manage their current income and provide for the future together. The formerly oblivious spouse did research on the employer's 401(k) plan and made personal decisions on investment options. The health plan booklet was also studied seriously by both the spouses. "I have a financial partner now" the pleased spouse reported back after the workshop. They have a firm plan for the future and just purchased a new home.

Johnston County

Assisting 226 families and consumers in making right decisions so that their clothing, food, and shelter choices are consistent with their family resources is a goal of Johnston County Extension Service. Six clothing construction workshops, news articles, publications and in-home consultations taught 144 families and consumers how to extend their family clothing budget by 7 percent by making their own clothes and adding designer fashion tips to these garments. 50 consumers increased their knowledge and adopted home furnishings techniques to further extend their income by doing their own home improvements. As a result these consumers were able to save $4,000 by making garments and doing their own home improvements.

Hertford County

Eleven families have applied for the IDA Program with 8 qualified to become homeowners, get education or open a small business. Extension Service will teach 10 classes on money management and budgeting. We will work cooperatively with CADA, Centura Bank, and county agencies. Their initial investment will be $50 and $35 each additional month to reach their goal of $1,000 to be matched with $2,000 from state and federal funds. Welfare, to work participants are also interested in budgeting and money management. Out of 9 participants in the class, 4 would like to enroll in the IDA Program once they get a job. They would like to move from the mobile home project to have their own home.

Stanly County

FCE agent works with families that have applied for housing through Habitat for Humanity. Families must complete 3 financial management sessions before being considered for Habitat Housing. Recently, one single-parent family completed four sessions and reduced her monthly spending by an average of $298.

Rowan County

Rowan County's Cooperative Extension's "Community Affordable Homeownership" programs targeted potential first time home buyers who are low-wage or moderate income individuals or families. Networking with local agencies, municipal offices, home builders, communities and lenders has proved to be successful. They have helped to advertise and co-sponsor the series of classes. Sponsorship in 1999 was $2200 for posters, media advertising and supplies. Data collected from 78 of 126 participants rated the classes as good to excellent: practical value -- 92%; new knowledge gained --89%; improved skills -- 83%; and 78% of individuals with credit problems are working to pay debts; and 7 have purchased new or existing houses, 4 have remodeled, and 24 are saving for down payments.

CEMP 8 TEAM:

Sarah Kirby, Co-Chair, NCSU

Nita Royal, Co-Chair, Forsyth County

Jan Lloyd, Area Specialist, NCSU

Linda Aycock, Nash County

Deborah Taylor, Orange County

Ellen Miller, NCSU

Joanne Cope, Macon County

Bob Usry, NCSU

Michael Walden, NCSU

Claudette Smith, NCA&T

Glennie Beasley, Chatham County

Jim Daughtry, Jones County

CEMP # 9 - FAMILY AND PARENT EDUCATION

Brief description of CEMP Program focus: The Family & Parent Education Cooperative Extension Major Program is helping parents and families acquire and develop the skills needed to foster qualities of responsibility, cooperation, courage and self-esteem. Appropriate actions are being taken to provide quality information on how to strengthen family relationships through improved parenting skills, financial management, problem-solving skills, empowerment, conflict resolution, effective communication, and stress management. In addition, Extension personnel are equipped to make appropriate referrals for family services, support services, and self-help support groups.

Abstract/Overview of 1998 CEMP 09 Program Accomplishments:

Thousands of individuals and families across the state were contacted, taught, mentored, encouraged, and impacted by the combined efforts of 60 county partners working on one or more of the objectives in CEMP 09, Family and Parent Education, during 1999. The many educational efforts initiated and facilitated by County Family and Consumer Educators were immeasurably enhanced by hundreds of volunteers, collaborators, county government representatives, funding partners, state faculty members, and many members of our support staffs. Literally none of our successes are accomplished without a coordinated team effort.

Program content fit within the confines of CEMP 09's four objectives. Individual educational efforts focused heavily on Parent Education, Child Care, and Child Development. In addition, different programs emphasized topics related to overall human development such as stress management, conflict resolution, personal improvement skills, decision-making, personal responsibility, communication skills, and other life skills. Program methodologies were often highly creative and non-traditional, involving diverse audiences including limited resource families, incarcerated parents, as well as cross-cultural groups. Many venues were utilized in disseminating our research-based information related to family and parent education.

The results of the CEMP 09 educational programs conducted throughout the state are quite impressive. Utilizing various evaluation techniques including observational, self-reporting questionnaires, pre-post tests, telephone surveys, one-on-one conversation, purposive sampling, and in some cases extrapolation, the awareness and knowledge levels related to one or more content concepts of 58,281 participants were increased. In addition to learning concepts, 17,902 persons reported adopting practices as a result of Extension programs that would improve their personal or family context, and 6,589 reported learning new skills that would enhance their ability to deal with the challenges of life. According to 6,361 learners, stronger family relationships were perceived as a result of participating in CEMP 09 educational opportunities. An overall improvement in the quality of life was reported by 15,873 program participants.

Objective 1: Participating individuals and families will increase parenting skills related to caring for oneself, understanding ones children, motivating, nurturing and guiding them, and serving as advocates when needed.

Counties(units) reporting accomplishments: (50 Counties reporting) Alexander, Alleghany Anson, Avery, Brunswick, Buncombe, Chatham, Chowan, Cleveland, Columbus, Craven, Currituck, Dare, Davidson, Duplin, Durham, Franklin, Graham, Greene, Harnett, Haywood, Henderson, Iredell, Jackson, Johnston, Jones, Lenoir, Lincoln, Madison, Mcdowell, Mitchell, Moore, Northampton, Orange, Pamlico, Pasquotank, Pender, Perquimans, Person, Randolph, Robeson, Rockingham, Rowan, Rutherford, Sampson, Stanly, Union, Warren, Wayne, Wilson.

Respective MOPs description and numbers: 14,462 individuals increased awareness and knowledge of developmental stages, basic needs , and appropriate behavior of children. 10,809 individuals increased awareness and knowledge of appropriate discipline strategies. 5,105 individuals adopted appropriate discipline strategies. 19,616 individuals increased awareness and knowledge of techniques to control stress, time, and energy. There was 8,528 adoptions of techniques to control stress, time, and energy.

Respective Impacts description and numbers: 4,361 families demonstrated improved family relationships through the resolution of financial conflicts. 7,382 families demonstrated improved responsibility of parents and children. 13,168 families improved quality of family life by adoption of effective parenting through appropriate discipline techniques and critical nurturing practices.

Volunteers - Number: 855

Hours: 5,184

Dollar Value at $ 10/hr: $51,840.

A concise narrative to capture all accomplishments for Objective 1: 50 counties reported offering a variety of educational programs related to parenting and child care including health and stability of the family; fatherhood issues; incarcerated parents; building strong relationships; discipline strategies; communicating with children; developmental stages of children; nutrition education; financial planning; and child safety. These programs were conducted in a variety of ways with diverse target audiences, and frequently in collaboration with other government and community agencies. Listed below is a sampling of programming efforts throughout the state:

PARENT EDUCATION RESOURCE NOTEBOOK: A 15-unit curriculum resource notebook on Parent Education was developed by the CEMP planning team and in-serviced at the Extension Annual Conference and distributed in hard copy. During 1999 the notebook has been converted to an on-line resource document in which county agents can download and print only the pieces they need at any given time. The notebook will be more easily edited and expanded in its electronic form. The resource has received rave reviews from county personnel.

DUPLIN COUNTY - A thirty-five year old mother of three children, said "without the parenting program in the county I would have not been able to afford private consultation fees to retain custody of my three children". As a result of the parenting program offered through Cooperative Extension to the Duplin County Juvenile Crime Prevention Counsel, two youth enrolled into the GED Program at our community college (James Sprunt). We helped one youth get into Job Corp. We have also continued to help flood victims gain resources. How to Help Your Child Cope After The Storm news release was circulated in local newspapers and aired on the local radio stations reaching approximately 15,000 Duplin residents.

PENDER COUNTY - As a result of damage from Hurricane Floyd approximately 700 families had severe flooding problems to homes. Agent met with & counseled 2000 people. In addition, newspaper articles reached about 40,000 people, 3000 school children received educational material to take home to parents & 500 people received disaster relief information through newsletters. Families were provided information to assist them in making better decisions to survive and to protect their families from fraud while they were trying to put their lives back together, and to reduce stress in all areas of family relations.

Objective 2: Limited resource parents will use effective parenting skills and identify possible solutions to family problems associated with money to promote optimal child development and to reduce stress to improve their ability to face the daily challenges of parenting.

Counties(units) reporting accomplishments: (11 Counties Reporting) Alamance, Brunswick, Caswell, Catawba, Columbus, Forsyth, Guilford, Lenoir, Mcdowell, Onslow, Robeson.

Respective MOPs description and numbers: 763 limited resource parents demonstrated proper application of techniques learned to resolve financial conflicts. 747 limited resource parents increased knowledge and awareness of strategies to resolve family financial conflicts. 1,365 limited resource parents increased knowledge and awareness of child growth and development. 653 limited resource parents adopted appropriate discipline techniques and critical nurturing practices.

Respective Impacts description and numbers: 593 families demonstrated improved family relationships through the resolution of financial conflicts. 698 families demonstrated improved responsibility of parents and children. 737 families adopted improved quality of family life by adoption of effective parenting through appropriate discipline techniques and critical nurturing practices.

Volunteers - Number: 112

Hours: 1,091

Dollar Value at $ 10/hr: $10,910.

A concise narrative to capture all accomplishments for Objective 2: A variety of educational programs were implemented in 11 counties with limited resource clientele including budgeting; teaching children about money; use of children's car seats; alleviating stress; effective discipline; self-esteem, self-control, and responsibility. Examples of programming under objective 2 include:

McDOWELL COUNTY - Individual consultation with 4 families have resulted in 2 additional families setting up spending plans. One family is using a debt elimination table to pay off debts. Another family has changed spending habits completely and has regular appointments with the local Consumer Credit Counseling Service. More classes are planned with the Job Links program in 2000.

ONSLOW COUNTY - NCCE - Onslow County Center continues to work with low-income parents and grandparents in providing car seats for them. The car seats are received through the NC Dept. of Insurance with the Fire and Rescue Division. Thus far this year, we have received 65 car seats and 20 booster seats to distribute to local low-income families. This is $4300.00 being brought into the county through car-seats. This program has become very successful. This year we participated in the Bounty program which tries to get individuals to turn in old or non-working car seats instead of selling them at yard sales. Last year only 2 car seats were turned in and this year 21 have been turned it. To us, that is a significant increase. We know we should easily be getting more, but it is a great start.

Objective 3: Families and individuals will improve skills in critical thinking, family conflict resolution, and effective decision-making.

Counties(units) reporting accomplishments: (16 Counties Reporting) Alexander, Alleghany, Anson, Buncombe, Catawba, Columbus, Davidson, Forsyth, Harnett, Johnston, Lenoir, Mitchell, Stokes, Union, Wilson, Yancey.

Respective MOPs description and numbers: 7,486 people increased awareness and knowledge of skills in critical thinking, communicating, leadership, managing finances and managing stress. 2,262 persons adopted skills in critical thinking, communicating, leadership, managing finances, and managing stress.

Respective Impacts description and numbers: 810 program participants reported improved self-esteem of family members by adopting strategies of affirmation, positive reinforcement, and expression of affection. 1,313 persons said their quality of family life improved through the adoption of skills such as improved communication, conflict management, and effective decision making. And 1,300 people improved their interpersonal relationships through the adoption of skills in critical thinking, communicating, leadership, managing finances, and managing stress.

Volunteers - Number: 157

Hours: 402

Dollar Value at $ 10/hr: $4,020.

A concise narrative to capture all accomplishments for Objective 3: 16 counties reported conducting programming in leadership development; children's school readiness; parenting skills; stress reduction; conflict resolution; domestic violence; life skills; effective decision- making; communication skills; building self-esteem; handling problems relating to pressures in daily living; and building strong families. Examples of programming under objective 3 include:

ALEXANDER COUNTY - Learning to handle conflict and express angry feelings is a problem for preschoolers that has been identified by local child care providers. Cooperative Extension in Alexander County conducted a staff and parent education training, called "Getting Along" within in one local child care center. The parent education component was a series of take-home packets on three different topics. Each take-home packet included a child's book, a parent/child activity and an educational bulletin. Seventeen parents reported learning and using strategies to help their children manage anger and resolve conflict. Staff members caring for the children reported observing that children were beginning to handle their anger more effectively and had increased their ability to use words rather than physical aggression to express their anger.

BUNCOMBE COUNTY - Nearly 1200 Buncombe County residents increased knowledge of the causes and consequences of distress in their lives and developed techniques for reducing the impact of stressors as the result of participating in one of three programs on stress management and/or one of three health fairs. School guidance counselors and parents in another 4,000 households learned ways to help young adolescents deal with stress and how to recognize the warning signs of potential violence in children through a parenting newsletter which was issued in response to recent school shootings. An exhibit illustrating the warning signs of potential violence in children at different ages is being developed for use with various groups.

DAVIDSON COUNTY - A new audience was reached through this endeavor in the area of stress reduction and management. The entire audience of 18 were of the Deaf Community. Stress in their personal and family life play a significant role in their lives. All 18 have adopted a plan to manage their stress load, through communication skills, critical thinking techniques, conflict management and stress reduction activities. It is hard to put a monetary value on this project however all said they would have paid $50 to attend a seminar of this sort. Fifty percent of this audience has mainstreamed into other Extension activities. It has created problems with interpreters, however the clientele are pleased with the programs and are learning many new things while main-streaming into society.

Objective 4: Families will become aware of support services and will use them effectively.

Counties(units) reporting accomplishments: (9 Counties Reporting) Columbus, Edgecombe, Harnett, Iredell, Jones, Lenoir, Onslow, Pitt, Stanly.

Respective MOPs description and numbers: 3,152 people increased awareness and knowledge of community services. 793 persons increased their ability to communicate with service agencies. 644 persons increased their awareness and knowledge of skills such as listening, managing finances, and managing stress. And 591 people adopted skills such as listening, managing finances, and managing stress.

Respective Impacts description and numbers: 655 people said they improved their quality of family life through utilization of community services. 215 reported improved self-esteem by implementing suggested strategies for strengthening families. In addition, 597 persons reported improved family relationships through the adoption of skills such as listening, managing finances, and managing stress.

Volunteers - Number: 81

Hours: 470

Dollar Value at $ 10/hr: $4,700.

A concise narrative to capture all accomplishments for Objective 4: Extension educators often serve as a referral system to help families access specific kinds of professional help. Nine of our CEMP counties chose this objective as a focus of emphasis, and conducted programs in key issues facing our young people; poor achievement among youth; collaboration among agencies; health services; care-giver services available; survival skills for women; community service exhibitions; advocacy for children and families; healthcare insurance; and others. Examples of Extension's efforts include the following:

EDGECOMBE COUNTY - 191 citizens increased their knowledge and access to community services following Hurricane Floyd through handouts and interpretation provided by the FCS agent and volunteers. Services that were accessed included WIC funds, immunizations, maternity care, distribution center goods, holiday gifts and relief funds.

162 Hispanic citizens had the increased ability to communicate with the Department of Social Services to receive hurricane relief funds through Extension efforts. Volunteers translated pertinent information, delivered and communicated that information and assisted Hispanics at the application sites so that they would receive the appropriate funds.

HARNETT COUNTY - Efforts to educate families concerning available community services to assist with children and family needs have included multi agency exhibits and distribution of educational brochures at our Girl's Are Great Program, Children's Health Fair and other educational functions, programs for Harnett County's Delta Kappa Gamma Educational Sorority, report to our County Commissioners and Community Leaders as well as the development and distribution of a brochure by Extension's Child Care Resource and Referral Staff on "Parenting Again", a list of resources for older adults parenting grandchildren or other young family members.

JONES COUNTY - The Jones County Cooperative Extension initiated the formation of the building Bridges Committee to address the needs of Latinos in our area. The committee consisted of five county agencies, several Hispanic ministries, Extension and Community Association clubs, churches, and other citizens. As a result, information of available services was gathered, an assessment of lacking services was determined and an area Health Fair and Festival was conducted. The festival had 120 attendees and participants were made aware of services available, received free health care such as eye screenings, tetanus shots, sugar and blood pressure checks, free clothing, food and information on health topics like child care, spouse and child abuse, pesticide safety, employment opportunities and nutrition. High school students were involved in preparations and the event.

PITT COUNTY - "Making Pitt's Babies fit" is a maternity fair held annually to make parents aware of the child care services Pitt County has to offer new or expecting parents. This year's fair offered exhibits and information from many local agencies and businesses. Parents were required to view all exhibits and were encouraged to pick up educational handouts and materials on child safety, prenatal care, child health issues and local services offered. Approximately 200 expecting or new parents attended the fair.

CEMP 09 contact persons (co-chairs): Georgia Kight and Wayne Matthews

CEMP # 10 - FOOD AND FOREST PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING

Food Science The food portion of this CEMP deals with two major objectives:

1) Assistance to entrepreneurs and startup businesses in the food industry

2) Assisting the North Carolina food processing industry in the technology of producing a safe, wholesome and economical product.

Wood and Paper Science

The North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, Department of Wood and Paper Science and the Martin County Center work to increase the competitiveness and profitability of North Carolina's wood products industry, improve markets, and increase consumer understanding of wood products and their proper use. The continued long-term expansion of the State's primary and secondary wood products industries not only depends on the national and international economy, but on the individual firm's abilities to compete by obtaining and efficiently using raw materials and utilizing existing and new technology. Wood Products Extension and the Martin County Center concentrate their efforts on providing educational opportunities for managers and key personnel of primary and secondary wood products firms and the consumers of wood products. These opportunities allow clientele to develop their knowledge and skills to further their effectiveness in the assembly, processing, distribution, and use of wood products. The wood products industry modernization will increase their competitiveness in our growing international economy.

UNITS REPORTING ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Department of Food Science Extension Specialists

Drs. Pat Curtis, David Greene, Duane Larick, John Rushing, Lynn Turner, Kevin Keener, Donn Ward. Barry Nash of the Seafood Lab and Mrs. Lisa Gordon, Extension Secretary

Department of Wood and Paper Science Extension Specialists

Joe Denig, Larry Jahn, Phil Mitchell

Martin County Extension Center

Jim Kea

STATEWIDE MEASURES OF PROGRESS TOTALS

Objective 1: Food processors will adopt new technology, hire and train qualified personnel, and develop in-house quality systems to ensure regulatory compliance along with sustained growth and profitability.

Increased participation in training

Number participating:1000

Number increasing understanding: 1000

Objective 2: (A) Forest products manufacturers will increase their competitiveness, productivity, profitability, and utilization of innovative technology, and (B) North Carolina citizens will increase their knowledge of wood products, their proper application, and maintenance.

Adoption of new manufacturing techniques

Number of firms adopting: 136

Consumer adoption of practices related to selection, use, and maintenance of wood products

Number adopting: 260

Increased knowledge of economic importance of the wood products industry

Number increasing knowledge: 2,650

Increased consumer understanding of wood products and their proper use

Number increasing understanding: 2,738

Objective 3: New and potential entrepreneurs especially in the food and forest products manufacturing areas will benefit from programs in business setup, management, quality, technology, and regulations by entry into the marketplace showing sustained growth and profitability.

Requests for assistance from small business and entrepreneurs

Number: 220

Number of new companies in food and forest products manufacturing

Number: 40 in food ( no data on survivability yet)

STATEWIDE IMPACT TOTALS

Objective 1: Food processors will adopt new technology, hire and train qualified personnel, and develop in-house quality systems to ensure regulatory compliance along with sustained growth and profitability.

Persons certified to implement HACCP: 1000

Companies represented: 800

Minimum estimated impact to North Carolina Industry $1,000,000

Objective 2: (A) Forest products manufacturers will increase their competitiveness, productivity, profitability, and utilization of innovative technology, and (B) North Carolina citizens will increase their knowledge of wood products, their proper application, and maintenance.

Dollars saved through improved utilization or productivity

Dollars: $1,500,000

Increased production of value-added products

Dollars: $400,000

Dollars saved through improved yield, efficiency, productivity, and marketing

Dollars: $196,000

Objective 3: New and potential entrepreneurs especially in the food and forest products manufacturing areas will benefit from programs in business setup, management, quality, technology, and regulations by entry into the marketplace showing sustained growth and profitability.

Increase in number of small businesses in food and forestry manufacturing

Number: 40

NARRATIVE PROGRAM PROGRESS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Food Science

Specialists from the Department of Food Science at North Carolina State University worked with the Meat and Poultry Inspection Division of the North Carolina Department of Agriculture to plan and implement a training program for very small meat and poultry plants in North Carolina. The unique approach taken by the interagency group was to offer the three day training course one day a week for three weeks. This approach allowed the very small plants to attend the training sessions without severely impacting the production schedule of their plant during any one week. In addition, the team created a workbook used by the participants. This workbook was unique in that it allowed the participants to take the knowledge they gained from class and apply it to their personal situation. By doing this the participants were able to begin the process of actually developing HACCP plans for their own plants as a "homework" assignment. The "homework" assignment was then used at the beginning of the next session as a feedback tool and review from the previous session.

FSIS is the Agency within the U.S. Department of Agriculture responsible for ensuring the safety, wholesomeness, and accurate labeling of meat, poultry, and egg products. FSIS issued its landmark rule, Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems, on July 25, 1996. The rule addresses the serious problem of foodborne illness in the United States associated with meat and poultry products by focusing more attention on the prevention and reduction of microbial pathogens on raw products that can cause illness.

The Food Safety and Inspection and Inspection Service (FSIS) is entering the third and final phase of implementation of the final rule on Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems. On January 25, 2000, all very small plants, defined as having fewer than 10 employees or less than $2.5 million in sales, must meet all requirements of the Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems final rule. As a result of the efforts of team members, 219 processors representing 159 plants in North Carolina and 17 NCDA regulatory personnel have been trained in HACCP. These trained individuals will be able to develop and implement HACCP programs that will enable them to more effectively control the safety of their products and thus remain in business and contribute to the economies of their communities.

Safe Seafood HACCP Training

NC State University Seafood Laboratory personnel have participated in 14 National Seafood HACCP Alliance Education & Training Workshops. Organizing 11 in North Carolina, with 458 individuals certified, 367 in North Carolina. These training sessions allow seafood manufacturers to get the necessary background and Certification to meet current federal regulations.

On the dairy processing side, we have been working to implement a HACCP pilot in 6 dairy plants across the nation. This work is inconjunction with the states represented by the Interstate Milk Shipper's agreement, the FDA and industry Representatives. The group has been recommended for the FDA Group Recognition Award to recognize "crosscutting" teams for achievements that warrant honorary recognition by the Agency. This NCIMS HACCP training effort clearly shows how FDA, state, industry, and academia worked together as a team to provide training to pilot participants as the first step in successfully implementing the HACCP Pilot Program.

Wood and Paper Science

Faculty conducted, organized or participated in 48 workshops, conferences, seminars, short courses, and classes for forest industry and consumer audiences. Sample topics included wood drying, quality control, rough mill processing, marketing, wood preservation, and proper uses of wood products. These efforts reached an estimated 2,509 individuals. Major events are listed below.

Conducted, organized, and taught at the following events:

Hardwood Lumber Grading Short Course, Raleigh

In-House Lumber Manufacturing Seminar, Dudley

In-House High Temperature Drying Seminar, Plymouth

Southeastern Lumber Manufacturers Association Roundtable Group, Florence, SC and Comack, GA

Profiting from Improved Practices in Furniture Manufacturing Workshop, Hickory

Hardwood Plywood Manufacturing: Quality Control for Increased Profits Short Course, Raleigh

In-House Rough Mill Workshop, Mocksville

Southeastern Dry Kiln Club Spring Meeting, Martinsville, VA

Rough Mill Improvement Workshop, Hickory

Basic Dry Kiln Operators Short Course, Clyde

In-House Hardwood Lumber Manufacturing Workshop, Elizabethtown

In-House Lumber Grading Review, Seagrove

CNC Router Technology Workshop, Raleigh

Southeastern Dry Kiln Club Fall Meeting, Franklin

In-House Lumber Drying Workshop, Morganton

In-House Pine Kiln Drying and Maintenance Workshop, Dudley

Forest Products Society's Carolinas-Chesapeake Annual Meeting, Winston-Salem

Wood Treatment Recertification Training, Raleigh

Presentations at the following events:

Parks and Recreation Maintenance School, Wheeling, WV

NC State Parks and Recreation Maintenance Conference, Fort Fisher

Phase II Agent Training on Moisture Control, Raleigh

Wood Technology Clinic and Show, Portland, OR

Forest Products Society Annual Meeting, Boise, ID

Small Scale Forestry in the Urban-Rural Interface Field Day, Pittsboro

Wood Expo 99, Atlanta

Wood for Africa 99 Forestry, Sawmilling & Timber Exhibition, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Forsyth County Center Homeowners Group, Winston-Salem

Southern Ideal Home Show, Raleigh

Pesticide Certification School, Raleigh

NCREN Video Teleconference on Marketing Your Timber, Raleigh

Polk County Center Homeowners Group, Columbus

Chilean Forestry and Wood Products Industry Tour Group, Raleigh

Hurricane Floyd Community Meetings on Moisture Control, Goldsboro, Seven Springs, Tarboro

Trade and Investment Opportunities Workshop for American and African Manufacturers and Traders in Wood Products, Raleigh

Louisiana Society of American Foresters Annual Meeting, Hammond, LA

Helping producers and buyers in solving problems or answering their questions associated with the production and use of wood products is also an important activity. Many of these problems and questions require extensive time in gathering the information needed by an agent, industry or final consumer. Faculty handled 158 requests of this type in 1999.

Martin County Center

ProLogger, which focuses on continuing education requirements for North Carolina's loggers, is designed to improve logger safety, environmental concerns, and business management. Those who complete the required 24 credit hours of training will receive the Professional Logger designation and a diploma. To date, approximately 3,500 industry and agency personnel have taken this course. The Carolina Log'n Demo developed by Extension is now being handled by the North Carolina Forestry Association and the ProLogger Council. The demo has a very strong Extension built foundation which was reflected in the 1999 attendance of approximately 2,200.

SUCCESS STORIES

Food Science

The Food Safety and Inspection and Inspection Service (FSIS) is entering the third and final phase of implementation of the final rule on Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems. On January 25, 2000, all very small plants, defined as having fewer than 10 employees or less than $2.5 million in sales, must meet all requirements of the Pathogen Reduction; Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) Systems final rule. As a result of the efforts of team members, 219 processors representing 159 plants in North Carolina and 17 NCDA regulatory personnel have been trained in HACCP. These trained individuals will be able to develop and implement HACCP programs that will enable them to more effectively control the safety of their products and thus remain in business and contribute to the economies of their communities.

Safe Seafood HACCP Training

NC State University Seafood Laboratory personnel have participated in 14 National Seafood HACCP Alliance Education & Training Workshops. Organizing 11 in North Carolina, with 458 individuals certified, 367 in North Carolina.

Wood and Paper Science

There is a great need to increase the competitiveness and profitability of North Carolina's forest products industry and to increase consumer understanding of forest products and their proper use. To meet this need, extension specialists within the Department of Wood and Paper Science are actively involved in providing educational and technical assistance to North Carolina wood products manufacturers and consumers of wood products. The following examples are indicative of the many impacts accruing as a result of useful educational opportunities being provided in a timely and inclusive manner to industry and consumers of wood products.

A dimension manufacturer implemented yield measurement methods in their rough mill operation. Estimated annual savings were $160,000.

A sawmill decided against investing in a large capital project due to a negative cash flow for the first five years. Estimated annual savings were $500,000.

A hardwood lumber manufacturer improved their understanding of the lumber grading rules. Estimated annual savings were $400,000.

A specialist participated as a speaker at the Parks and Recreation Maintenance Management School. A strategy was adopted to compare the student's perception if the topics held importance to their job (pre-test) against the student's perception if the session was actually beneficial to their job (post-test). This strategy employed the t-test statistical procedure. Among the 14 different topics, nine were statistically significant in the positive direction including the specialist's. On a scale of 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree), this specialist's topics were rated second (4.65) and fourth (4.53). The results of this impact initiative indicate the specialist's's topics were hitting the mark.

A "Rough Mill Improvement Workshop" was held in cooperation with the Furniture Technology Center at Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory. Projected attendance was 30 attendees but that goal was surpassed with 50 attendees representing 19 companies. On a 5 point scale (1=not helpful, 5=very helpful), the average overall score was 3.9 with 72% rating the workshop with a score of 4 or 5. Sample comments on the workshop included: excellent workshop with very good take home material; very helpful; excellent overview of subject material; literature good to have to refer back to, very thorough, slides helpful; and attendance was worth time and cost spent.

Martin County Center

The Carolina Log'n Demo has given attendees the opportunity to view state-of-the-art harvesting and transportation equipment. Due to this show, 12 portable scales have been purchased by loggers in the Martin County area. The purchase of the scales has resulted in saving loggers an extra trip per day by correctly loading their trucks to the legal limit. Estimated amount savings for these loggers are $100,000.

ProLogger, which focuses on continuing education requirements for North Carolina's loggers, is designed to improve logger safety, environmental concerns, and business management. This program continues to reduce injuries and keep fatalities low. Savings for 1999 due to reduced workers compensation are estimated at $1,000,000.

Information provided on the care of Floyd flood damaged wood products enabled at least 100 people to either do part of their own repairs or monitor work being done. Estimated savings were $200,000.

TEAM MEMBERS

Tom Campbell

Larry Jahn, Co-Chair

Jim Kea

John Rushing, Co-Chair, Drs. Pat Curtis, David Greene, Duane Larick,, Lynn Turner, Kevin Keener, Donn Ward. Barry Nash of the Seafood Lab and Mrs. Lisa Gordon, Extension Secretary

CEMP # 11 - FOOD SAFETY AND QUALITY

A very brief Program Description:

The food safety and quality CEMP focuses on increasing knowledge and encouraging the adoption of safe food handling practices of food service workers, consumers, youth and other diverse audiences

An abstract/overview of your entire 1999 CEMP program accomplishments in a Narrative format not to exceed one-half page single spaced. (please write this as if it was a total stand alone document)

County offices throughout North Carolina delivered a variety of food safety programs, (safe food handling, hygiene, food preservation, food service, master food preserver, sanitation, youth cooking classes, etc.) to diverse audiences (children, high school students, adults, senior citizens, Work First clients, child care providers, garden and civic clubs, Extension Homemaker Clubs, Meals on Wheels volunteers, college students, limited resources families, etc.). A growing number of agents are partnering with others (Departments of Aging, schools, Environmental Health, universities, community colleges, etc.) to provide various programs. In addition, state specialists have provided assistance on a wide array of food safety related issues to a variety of audiences. The topics have ranged from food processing to biotechnology. The food processing industries (poultry, meat and eggs; dairy, seafood, fruits and vegetables, etc.) have been inundated with new regulations related to food safety. Specialists in cooperation with various commodity and processing associations have spent a great deal of time trying to assist industry in meeting these new challenges

Number of Units reporting accomplishments:

63 Counties and 3 Departments

Statewide Measures of Progress totals:

Objective 1:

Number of food safety programs held for:

Consumers 1,085

Food Service Workers 231

Food Handlers 284

Food Regulators 15

Others 249

Number of food handlers certification programs held for:

Consumers 115

Food Service Workers 261

Food Handlers 46

Food Regulators 8

Others 21

Number of train the trainer programs held for:

Consumers 175

Food Service Workers 35

Food Handlers 12

Food Regulators 12

Other Professional 28

Number of participants in the train the trainer programs:

Consumer 175

Food Service Workers 476

Food Handlers 445

Food Regulators 20

Other Professional 142

Number of Participants who increased knowledge about safe food handling:

Consumers 15,337

Food Service Workers 2,750

Food Handlers 2,263

Food Regulators 24

Other Professionals 184

Number of participants who successfully completed certification:

Consumers 579

Food Service Workers 1,500

Food Handlers 628

Food Regulators 16

Other Professionals 15

Objective 2:

Number of consumers who increased knowledge about the application of biotechnology on the food supply: 124

Statewide Impacts totals

Objective 1:

Adoption of safe food handling practices by:

Consumers 10,897

Food Service Workers 15,191

Food Handlers 1,705

Food Regulators 20

Other Professionals 150

Objective 2:

Number of consumers who improved attitude about the safety and acceptability of the use of biotechnology in the food supply: 120

Volunteers involved and value

Objective 1:

Number of Volunteers: 551

Hours: 3,921

Dollar Value at $10/hr: $39,210

Objective 2:

Number of Volunteers: 2

Hours: 4

Dollar Value at $10/hr: $40

A few Success Stories that indicate real program impacts

Home Food Preservation Example: Family and Consumer Educators from Cherokee, Jackson, Graham, Clay, Swain and Macon Counties responded to consumer education needs in terms of food preservation and safety. Agents coordinated and implemented a "Food Preservation Made Easy" workshop, which was rotated between the six counties. Topics included: canning high and low acid foods; pickling; soft spreads; freezing; and dehydration. The goal of the workshop was to increase consumer knowledge in terms of preserving foods safely and to promote the use of new preservation methods. Results of pre-and post-tests revealed an overall 25% increase in knowledge. Delayed post tests revealed, as a result of the workshop, 97% of respondents said objectives were met; 33% implemented a new preservation method; 38% either preserved more food, or have intentions to do so. Participants have shared new knowledge with over 95 other people.

Food Service Example: Preventing food poisoning from food borne illness is always a challenge for restaurants. One of the participants in a recent SERVSAFE Class had several years in the food service business and had worked her way up in management. She said she learned a lot from the course and why things have to be done a certain way. She went back and encouraged her manager to have a food safety and sanitation class for the rest of the workers in the restaurant. This safety class taught by the FCS Educator proved to be a plus for the business as well as the individuals as they are striving to use safe food handling and sanitation practices. Several of the young workers said they were glad they saw the video of these practices in other places and it made them understand why they have to follow strict policies and procedures.

Day Camp Experience Example: During the course of a 3 week day camp experience, 209 Hispanic youth received 5-6 hours of food safety instruction and hands-on experiences. They learned the importance of thoroughly cooking food, hand washing and temperature control. They were able to complete 70-80 percent of the items on a crossword puzzle at the end of the series. According to one teacher, "They would not eat lunch until they had washed their hands. Some said they would not eat their ham sandwiches because the meat was "pink". After some explaining on my part, they ate the meat."

An Example of a former program participant opening new doors: In Orange County, a former participant in the ServSafe program was impressed by the Glo-germ demonstration that was done during the class. She asked Extension Service and Health Department to demonstrate this activity to the PTA of an elementary school. As a result, the board did the hand-washing demonstration with the entire student population in that school, reaching more than 650 children with the importance of proper hand washing.

An Employee Health Fair Example: Rockingham County has a bi-annual Employee Health Fair. The FCE department has a booth at this fair. The theme of my display was Food Safety: Using Thermometers to Determine Safe Temperatures for Cooked Foods. The purpose was to educate participants to the need to use food thermometers when cooking meats, particularly ground beef. The rise in outbreaks of foodborne illness associated with this one type of food has been rising. Over 200 County Employees attended the Health Fair. The week following the Health Fair I received 5 phone calls from participants inquiring where to purchase various food thermometers I had displayed. The most noteworthy call came from an employee in Environment Health who wanted to purchase the digital thermometers for the health inspectors in her department. She felt this thermometer would help facilitate their accurate job performance.

Senior Citizens Program Example: The elderly are at greater risk of developing food poisoning than the general public. Incidence of food borne illness typically peaks during the summer months due to hot weather, cook outs, and other food-related gatherings. A cooperative agreement was formed between Cooperative Extension and United Services for Older Adults to provide a food safety program to 90 limited resource senior citizens at six Congregate Meal Sites throughout Guilford County. As a result of the program, eighty-six percent of the seniors showed an increase in food safety knowledge and planned to make improvements in their food safety practices in order to avoid food borne illness. This amounts to a significant savings in health care cost, $942 per case of food poisoning avoided, according to University of Virginia Cooperative Extension.

Using the Media for Hurricane Preparation: Food Safety information provided by Celia Witt Beauchamp, R.D., Extension Agent from Pitt Co. was aired from August 27-30 during hurricane Dennis. Information on "How to Keep your Freezer Safe when the Power Goes Out" was broadcast on WITN-Channel 7 and WNCT Channel 9. The information was broadcast approximately 10-12 times as the area prepared for the storm. On Sunday, August 29th the information was presented during a 1 hour Hurricane Preparation special on Channel 9. Also on August 29, the food safety information was available by internet on channel 7's home page as one of their "TOP STORIES" These two television station's broadcast areas cover a majority of the counties east of I-95 from Virginia to South Carolina. Celia also provided food safety information during a live broadcast on WNCT-TV9 (simulcast on radio due to power outages in the area) on Sept. 18 after hurricane Floyd hit Eastern NC.

Train the trainer Example: A successful component of our food safety program is advanced food safety training for county extension educators. These educators locally present food safety training to consumers (elderly, youth, children) and food service personnel. This program was started two years ago with twelve agents, who had a major responsibility and interest in food safety education. These agents were brought to campus for a three-week intensive, graduate level course in food safety. In addition to the in-depth training, the course required small group projects and individual projects on food safety topics to be completed and resource materials developed that other food safety educators could use. Recently at the statewide in-service training for extension professionals, food science specialists conducted a half-day program highlighting and promoting the success of the food safety training program as well as the agent-developed resource materials. There was a poster session detailing all 12 individual projects and the three group projects.

• Develop an overall narrative to capture program progress and accomplishments

County offices throughout North Carolina provided a variety of food safety programs (safe food handling, hand washing, food preservation, food service, master food preserver, sanitation, youth cooking classes, etc.) to diverse audiences (children, high school students, adults, senior citizens, Work First clients, child care providers, garden and civic clubs, Extension Homemakers Clubs, Meals on Wheels volunteers, college students, limited resource families, etc.). A growing number of agents are cooperating with others (Department of Aging, Environmental Health, Universities, Community Colleges, etc.) to provide various programs. Several examples of food safety programs across North Carolina will be presented to provide an idea of the variety of programs and audiences which have been reach through CEMP 11.

Consumer education is a reoccurring issue that surfaces at every food safety planning meeting. It is very difficult to reach the vast numbers who need to receive food safety information. Rockingham County offers one example. Y2K concerns have heightened consumer awareness of the need to preserve, store and handle foods properly so to preserve quality, avoid spoilage, contamination and illness. More than 400 residents have stopped by the county office or called to inquire about one or all of these topics. Information packets were compiled and distributed in response to these inquiries. Realizing the tremendous interest in these areas I utilized these hand-outs at 4 health fairs held at the local churches and the community college. More than 840 county residents received this information as a result of this programming effort. In another example from Madison County, Family and Consumer Education Agents in five counties, including Madison, conducted " Food Preservation Made Easy", a four hour workshop held in five counties to inform and educate citizens of proper food preservation methods. 166 participants attended the workshops. From the 123 post-tests received, 100% of the participants gained knowledge of proper food preservation methods that ensure quality and safety in home preserved foods.

Food safety training for both managers and employees of food service establishments is are major focus for CEMP 11. The ServSafe Food Safety Manager's certification course is a nationally recognized course for foodservice employees. The course teaches sanitation and safety measures to prevent contamination of food which could lead to a foodborne outbreak. According to the National Restaurant Association, the average cost to a restaurant after a foodborne outbreak is $75,000. The value to society when such an outbreak is prevented at any given establishment is $17,500, based on the average cost of a foodborne illness ($1750) times the average number of persons involved in an outbreak. Many county extension agents team with local health departments to carry out training programs. In addition, specialists from the Departments of Entomology, Family and Consumer Science and Food Science, have assisted counties in conducting the training programs. Dare County's tourist based economy provides an excellent example for the need of this type of food service training. In an effort to increase awareness of food safety practices in Dare County, a ServSafe course was offered to 26 managers and staff from 12 local restaurants. Ninty-five percent of the participants in attendance stated that the course identified at least one food safety practice that should be corrected and/or implemented in their establishments. Twenty-three of those present became certified. A great benefit of this session was the opportunity for Extension to form a new collaboration with Environmental Health as well as a new audience. Restaurant personnel also benefited from the opportunity to see Environmental Health personnel in the role of educators as opposed to regulators. Additional sessions are being planned for other restaurant personnel and school cafeteria workers. There were also numerous other counties with similar examples. During 1999, Dr. Angela Fraser focused her food safety efforts on agent training and consumer and foodservice food safety education. Three half-day food safety teleconferences were downlinked to eight sites in North Carolina with an average attendance per teleconference of 20 to 25 agents. These updates provided background information pertinent to agents' food safety programs. Four all-day food safety trainings were given to nearly 100 EFNEP paraprofessionals. Dr. Fraser assisted with the delivery of 21 county -based SERV SAFE programs. She has trained 53 school foodservice directors so these directors can work jointly with the county extension center and the health department to offer training to school foodservice workers. Sixty-eight (68) McDonalds managers were also certified during one of three trainings specifically held for McDonald's Corporation. A six-hour train-the-trainer course was held in conjunction with the NCRA to train 18 foodservice professionals to use the SERV SAFE curriculum with their employees. To better capture the outcomes of SERV SAFE trainings, Dr. Fraser conducted a study sponsored by the FDA to identify how to collect post-training information regarding food safety organizational changes. She has conducted two county-based programs for extension homemakers focusing on consumer issues.

CEMP 11 has several food safety programs for youth. For several years CEMP 11 has coordinated the Food Safety and Food Quality (FSQ) Symposium. The 5th Food Science, Poultry Science, Food Safety, and Food Quality Symposium for Youth, hosted by Drs. Gary Davis and Lynn Turner, was held on the NCSU campus June 13 to 17, 1999. The 4-H'ers attended workshops on DNA Finger Printing of Poultry, Eggolgy, Seafood Safety, Food Colors that Change with pH, Taste Panels and Aroma Identification, Sensory Evaluation, Searching the Internet for Science, Freezing Foods, and Career Opportunities in the Poultry Food Industries. Participants also toured Goodmark Foods, Krispy Kreme Dough Nuts, and Southern Foods. A pre- and post-test and Food Science, Poultry Science, and food safety issues in the food production industries were given to the participants. The average score of the pre-test was 48% and the average score of the post-test was 92%. The post-test scores indicated that knowledge had been gained during the Symposium.

As part of North Carolina's Food Safety and Quality Cooperative Extension Major Program, a food safety information retrieval system developed for extension educators, to promote food safety to the people of North Carolina and beyond. This award-winning effort has had local and national acclaim. Because of information related to holiday food safety in the system, specifically how to properly cook poultry, a local television station has featured the system during the holidays and set up links from their Web site. The site was also discussed on a local talk radio show, informing the public of this available resource. In addition, the system has been demonstrated and promoted at various conferences and national meetings such as the National Educational Forum for Food Safety Issues and the first annual National Food Safety Education Conference. In a recent site report, it was determined that the site receives an average of 2,124

hits per day.

List names of CEMP committee members and co-chairs

Co-chairs: Pat Curtis & Sandra Woodard

Ken Anderson Cynthia Brown Dan Carroll

Gary Davis* Angela Fraser* David Green

Suzette Goldmon Judy Henderson Tom Hoban*

Briton Hopkins Kevin Keener* Barbara Kirby

Carol Mitchell Barry Nash Mitch Owen

Alice Pettitt* John Rushing Brian Sheldon

Christine Smith Melissa Taylor* Lillie Tunstall

Lynn Turner* Bob Usry Donn Ward

Steve Washburn

Administrative Liasion: Roger Crickenberger

(*Subcommittee Co-Chair)

CEMP # 12 - HEALTH AND HUMAN SAFETY

Program Description:

CEMP 12, Health and Human Safety addresses pressing health concerns at the individual, family and community level. NCCES community-based educational programs enable individuals, families and communities to address health and safety needs including 1) healthy lifestyles, 2) home safety and crime prevention, 3) agricultural health and safety, and 4) community capacity building.

Abstract: Through the implementation of Extension programs, program participants have increased their awareness and knowledge of topics related to health and human safety. These include proper diet, exercise, and reduction of high risk behaviors. In the home, program participants made their living environments safer by removing hazards and adopting preventive measures. On the farm, increases in knowledge of agriculture health risks and use of protective equipment were recorded.

Number of Units Reporting:

Total Counties Reporting Accomplishments: 29

Objective 1: 16

Objective 2: 9

Objective 3: 12

Objective 4: 5

Measures of Progress and Impact Indicator Totals:

Objective 1 -115,517 participants increased their awareness and knowledge of preventative health behaviors such as eating properly, exercise, and safety in the home. 9,852 participants adopted recommended health care practices such as dietary intake, exercise, and other health promoting self-care practices. 4,942 increased their knowledge of appropriate use of available health care services and facilities. It has been estimated that more than $502,780 in costs have been avoided due to Extension efforts in reduction of high risk behaviors and through preventative health behaviors.

Objective 2 - 1,515 individuals adopted practices to remove safety hazards in the home and 1,003 adopted practices to make homes safer. 839 individuals adopted preventive measures including installing ventilation systems, radon, and carbon monoxide tests. 1,359 individuals adopted practices to insure indoor air quality, and 682 individuals increased their knowledge of the delivery of first aid.

Objective 3 - 2,570 participants were reported to have increased their awareness of agricultural (chemical) exposure and other agriculturally related health risks. 2,129 participants increased their awareness and use of personal protective equipment. It was determined that $484,000 was avoided in costs through reduced agricultural illnesses and injuries. 136 health professionals improved their recognition and treatment of agriculturally related illness and injuries.

Objective 4 - 8 health networks and coalitions were established. 9 on-going systems to monitor health status and needs in counties were established. 8 strategic partnerships and coalitions for improving health status were formed. 13 partnerships and coalitions are in existence to meet the health and health-related infrastructure needs of counties.

Volunteers Involved: In the 29 counties reporting impacts, it is estimated that 734 volunteers contributed 5,301 hours to local programs impacting on health and human safety. The dollar value of these contributions is estimated at $53,010.

Overview of 1999 Program Accomplishments:

Objective 1: Sixteen counties continue to promote healthier lifestyles through educational programs in exercise, nutrition, asthma, cancer prevention, CPR, and immunizations. One county worked with female youth offenders to help reduce high risk behaviors. Many counties targeted educational programs toward senior citizens.

Objective 2: Educational programs in 9 counties focused on a variety health and safety issues including: fire safety, disaster preparation and clean-up, hazardous products in the home, indoor air quality, asthma and allergin control, moisture control, and Y2K preparedness. Counties reported conducting programs for youth audiences and extension homemakers. Counties in the Eastern part of the state reported working with flood victims in the clean-up and rebuilding of homes and communities affected by Hurricane Floyd.

Objective 3: Programs in 12 counties focused on farm and home accident prevention; pesticide recertification; proper use, storage, and disposal of pesticides; pesticide personal protectional and equipment; and skin cancer prevention. Educational programs were developed for high school students, farm families with special attention to farmers and farm wives, health professionals, agri-business professionals, and others.

Objective 4: Five counties continue to be actively involved in the development of community health partnerships and community health coalitions. Coalitions and partnerships focus on health issues such as cancer, nutrition, chronic disease, health care access, substance abuse, and child safety. NCCES partners in the development of health facilities, grant proposals, and other areas of need in the communities.

Success Story:

Onslow County

Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation is a mandatory certification child care workers in NC must have in addition to 20 continuing education hours. NCCES-Onslow County Center, offers many classes at times when it is convenient for the child care workers to receive this certification. Thus far this year, two child care workers said they now know the importance in this training because they have had to use the skills of clearing an obstruction in a child at their child care center. Their testimonies helped the others in their class feel the importance of knowing these skills in the event that a child ever choked at their centers.

Wayne County

In response to Hurricane Floyd: information packets were assembled and distributed - Extension Homemakers assisted by placing information in grocery stores and replenishing as needed; 2 public programs were provided with the help of specialists from NCSU, reaching 80 people; moisture meters were made available for check out. 71 people have checked out moisture meters. One person commented "I am certainly glad that I attended the program and learned about the moisture meters. I checked one out, checked my walls and found that I have a lot of moisture still there. I immediately cancelled the carpet installation scheduled for the following Monday." As it turned out, this client had more damage than realized, and would not have found if not for using the meter. Numerous clients have told how they take the meters to their home, and while they have it, several neighbors will use it too.

Rutherford County

Due to 5 previous tractor-related deaths, Rutherford County has worked toward developing a Farm Safety Awareness Program. The Horticulture Agent applied for and received sponsorship from the Progressive Farmer organization to host a "Safety Workshop." Two hundred and fifteen Vo-Agriculture students from 4 local high schools (Polk & Rutherford Counties) participated in the Safety Workshop gathering information on lawn mower safety, disability awareness, first aid for choking, grain safety, fire safety, large animal safety, and hunting safety. Over 27 volunteers assisted with the project and helped secure $950 of funding for the event. The Safety Workshop was coordinated by the Rutherford and Polk County Extension Centers. Follow-up surveys indicated a 85 percent retention of safety measures taught.

Edgecombe County

With the arrival of Hurricane Floyd eminent, the Edgecombe County Extension Center was at the County Emergency Operations Center at its opening at 5:00 p.m., a full 12 hours before the storm hit the next morning. Two Extension workers left their family and property knowing a hurricane was putting them in danger. Extension comprised from 20 to 30% of the total people staffing the EOC for the first five most critical days. Some Extension staff members worked 16-20 hours per day for the first week of the emergency.

Edgecombe Cooperative Extension staff members contributed significantly to search, rescue and relief efforts during the critical two week period following Hurricane Floyd. Extension did many notable things. These are just a few: established internet connection at the EOC the evening before Hurricane Floyd hit. Without our help there would have been none. This was extremely important because there was no TV, satellite, or even radio communication available; helped arrange, prepare for and land the first rescue helicopters. This took place in the middle of the night. Extension obtained and distributed blankets to these first and remaining rescue victims (most had been standing in water during cold weather). For five days Extension was always at least 20% of the number answering calls for help at the EOC.

The flooding from Hurricane Floyd destroyed approximately 300 homes and damaged 900 homes in Edgecombe County. In response to this disaster, the Edgecombe County Cooperative Extension Office acquired 15 moisture meters for residents to use for testing the moisture level of the wood in their homes before rebuilding. The meters have been in constant use since they have become available. It is estimated that at least 290 homes have been tested with these meters. The moisture meter program has been instrumental in increasing awareness about the importance of waiting for the wood to

dry to 19 percent or less to prevent future moisture problems, indoor air quality concerns, health problems and further economic losses.

Ashe County

Studies have shown that asthma and allergies are on the rise with one out of every four people suffering from allergies and/or asthma. Total costs related to asthma (medical bills, lost work days) are expected to double in the year 2000 to 14.5 billion. More time spent indoors has been targeted as a contributing factor to increased asthma and allergies. Through collaborative efforts of Cooperative Extension, the Health Department and local doctors and nurses specializing in allergies and asthma thirty-three parents, teachers and child care providers gained new knowledge through a workshop about allergies and asthma with Cooperative Extension providing information on indoor environment. Forty middle school students gained knowledge about indoor environment (the school based health center coordinator who identified asthma and allergies as being one of the primary reasons for missed school days). Ninety percent of the students recognized changes they could make to improve their indoor

environment.

Hertford County

Statistics show that Hertford County citizens are at risk for health problems. Hertford Partners For Health is a collaborative community health partnership to address compelling health needs of County residents. The partnership was formed in 1995 to oversee the REACH Community Health Assessment Project Grant received by Roanoke-Chowan Hospital and coordinated by ECU School of Medicine. Cooperative Extension gives leadership as Co-Chair of Partners For Health. Highlights of accomplishments include: Every child in Grades K-8 receives some specialized nutrition education. Indigent patients receive free blood pressure medication as result of Access to Health care Initiative. Middle school students have received preventive/primary health care at their school Adolescent Health Center. Approximately 400 known diabetes patients received outpatient treatment/education, reducing hospitalization and length of stay by 6 percent. Partners For Health will continue progress to improve health care.

CEMP 12 CO-CHAIRS:

Sarah Kirby, Former Co-Chair

Mitch Smith, Current Co-Chair

Barbara Garland, Current Co-Chair

Wilma Hammett

Sandy Wiggins

Donna Edsel

Robert McLymore Ellen Smoak

Bob Edwards Judy Mock

Julia Storm Steve Lilley

Margaret Bullock Donna Mull

CEMP # 13 - LEADERSHIP AND VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT

Program Description:

Leadership and volunteer Development are unique in that this focus applies to all Extension education programs. Each program has the potential for developing leadership competencies as well as volunteer development. Leadership and volunteer development provides benefits to the individual as well as the local county staff. It gives staff members a base from which to extend their on-going programs and involve new leaders in existing leadership and volunteer systems in the organization.

Leadership development builds the capacity of individuals, groups and organizations to address issues in a community. Volunteer development enhances the potential for beneficial community service. Leadership and volunteer development are separate disciplines with unique purposes and methodologies, but they share a common focus that deals with human capacity building for the public good. It is this common focus that the Leadership and Volunteer Development State Major Program addresses.

Abstract:

The goal of the Leadership and Volunteer Development Cooperative Extension Major Program is to build the capacity of individuals, community groups and organizations for involvement in their community for the public good. The results reported by counties in this major program for 1998 indicate that educational experiences offered to the public have helped achieve this goal.

Volunteer leaders, through training programs and role assignments were prepared to involve others in accomplishing goals. Reports show many volunteers being trained as volunteer managers in Master Gardener programs, 4-H, Extension Homemakers and the Advisory Leadership System. Limited resource, non-traditional (7846) and traditional participants (4649) were taught leadership skills that helped some grow as individuals while others flourished as active members in groups. Individually and as groups the trained leaders are working to improve various aspects of their communities. Program participants (8032) also learned to analyze issues and determine the impact of these issues on their lives and the lives of others. This knowledge served as the major impetus for their participation in public forums, on community boards and committees. These individuals have also facilitated discussions on issues, helped generate solutions and develop and activate plans to resolve issues. Their actions resulted in citizens/leaders addressing 189 issues and 887 problems being resolved or projects completed by limited resource/non-traditional leaders.

Number of Units Reporting Accomplishments

Objective 1:30, Objective 2:60, Objective 3:32

Statewide Measures of Progress Totals

Objective 1:

Number of participants who increased knowledge and awareness of leadership skills: 7846

Number of participants who adopted sound leadership and decision-making practices: 4447

Number of participants who demonstrated proper application of leadership skills and problem solving techniques learned: 3383

Number of participants who identified community problems: 3054

Number of participants who developed and implemented action plans to resolve problems:2101

Number of projects completed/problems resolved: 887

Objective 2:

Increased knowledge of opportunities for volunteers to contribute: 24983

Adoption of volunteer management system practices: 6764

Number of volunteer management systems established: 443

Objective 3:

Number of persons who demonstrated improved leadership and problem solving skills: 4649

Number of persons who demonstrated acquired/improved facilitation knowledge and skills: 2671

Number of persons who participated in a community collaborative problem solving process: 3449

Number of persons who participated in community/public process as a result of leadership training: 2649

Number of community issues addressed (in progress): 189

Statewide Impacts totals

Objective 1:

Increase in the number of limited resource and non-traditional individuals with the capacity to provide valuable service to the community (assume some leadership roles in church, school, community etc., volunteer): 2972

Dollars saved by increased involvement in addressing community concerns by limited resource and non-traditional leaders: $213036

Dollars of economic value to community/county for community projects/solving problems: $1253159

Community organizations developed to continue resolving community problems: 81

Objective 2:

Empowerment of volunteer systems: 824

Economic value of volunteer intervention: $1661139

@$10 per hour

Objective 3:

Costs avoided through the resolution of (a) community(s) :$208018

Dollars saved as a result of achieving successful resolution of a (a) community issue (s): $465710

7. Volunteers involved and value

Objective 1

Number of Volunteers: 3703

Hours: 38931

Dollar Value at $10/hr: $389310

Objective 2

Number of Volunteers: 13042

Hours: 147129

Dollar Value at $10/hr: $1471290

Objective 3

Number of Volunteers: 2637

Hours: 30207

Dollar Value at $10/hr.: $302070

Success Stories:

Pamilico:

Storm drain stenciling has been completed in Pamilico County using eight 4-H youth and five master gardeners. This is an example of the use of Coop. Extension volunteers to accomplish a community task that likely would not have been done otherwise. As a result of the storm drain stenciling 2 news articles were printed helping citizens learn that anything poured or thrown into drains or ditches will move to the river and sound. There were 85 drains stenciled in four small towns.

Edgecombe:

Buddies for Life is a program conducted by the Edgecombe Cooperative Extension Center with grant funds from the Edgecombe County Department of Social Services in the amount of $53,700. This program has a full time director and a part time assistant director. Since April 1999 this program has conducted eighteen educational workshops from Character Education to Living in a Family. The group has had the support of 14 volunteers, 2 non-custodial parents, 6 custodial parents and 10 children. The attendance at the educational workshops and the 7 family outings has been outstanding. Because of this program the non-custodial parents' time has increased and both the parents and the child agree that the quality of time they spend together has increased. Buddies for Life participants, ten fathers, have also begun to contribute service to the community. During the Floyd flood disaster they volunteered and delivered clothing and school supplies to other flood victims.

Edgecombe:

Twelve community leaders from Dunbar, Battleboro and the Leggett communities completed 15 weeks of Community Voices training. This training resulted in a caution light being installed at a dangerous crossroad in the community. The community residents wanted a stoplight, but they all agreed that the caution light and the lower speed limit have greatly improved the intersection. The Dunbar community identified the need for funds to paint the existing community building and add an additional room. The center recently received $13000 to paint and repair the building and have been told they will receive very soon an additional $25,000 to help with their room addition.

Chowan:

Chowan County Extension Homemakers are active in many community projects. The most recent project, "The Vial of Life" started in May and has been given to 1000 Chowan County residents. This project is geared to persons who are 55 or older or who are chronically ill. Our goal is to provide more than 4000 vials to this population and to reach everyone who is eligible through organized and grassroots efforts. The purpose of the Vial is to enable people to keep an up to date medication list in a designated place in their home in the event of emergency. Emergency personnel will retrieve this information which will help to expedite their care. In addition to the vial, forms are being filled out by the participants to be entered into a 911 database. The cost of this project is 22 cents per participants and is being funded by Chowan County Extension and Community Association and Chowan Hospital.

Forsyth:

Community service has become a vital avenue for volunteers from business and industry to give back to their communities. Republic Mortgage Insurance company designated 18 staff members from their organization to help conduct and implement the annual 4-H plant sale. These volunteers along with 4-H volunteers handled record keeping, made sales, filled orders, updated materials, assisted with packaging, called clients on the phone, helped with deliveries, maintained all plants and passed out educational information on growing and maintaining plants. As a result of these volunteers and their efforts over $6000 of business was generated with a profit margin of over $4000 to the 4-H program.

Nash:

The Peachtree Community Organization has embarked on a mission to build a community building on land that the community owns. The community is a pilot community for the Voices Reach Visions economic development program. The community leaders received leadership development training through the "Community Voices" program. They have also conducted a training workshop "Engaging citizens in the development of communities which enabled them to apply for and receive their 501© 3 tax exempt status. The Peachtree community is now engaged in the program "Exploring Opportunities for Community and Economic Development". This program will assist the community in defining its needs and direct its growth and development toward an economic end.

Brunswick:

Damages to Oak Island from Hurricane Floyd exceeded 100 million dollars. Much of the damage incurred was due to an inadequate dune system that did not protect beachfront property. Repairs to the beach area resulted in nine miles of emergency dune system being put in place to protect property and infrastructure. Volunteers are needed to plant this dune to keep it in place. A new program, the "Master Dune Conservation Program" was conducted to train volunteers. Volunteers learned how to propagate, plant and protect dune vegetation. Volunteers have/will plant more than 75000 dune plants to protect the emergency dune on Oak Island.

Alexander:

Residents of a local housing development are primarily limited income seniors and single mothers with young children. Many residents of the Town of Taylorsville report feeling isolated and that a lack of community existed. Residents are not comfortable accessing resources for which they may be eligible. Extension coordinated a fall fun day that would: (1) give residents a planned on-site opportunity for social interaction (2) acquaint residents with community resources and representatives (3) increase visibility of the needs of the apartment community among town officials. Seven agencies led games, music, crafts and activities, even voter registration. Results: a committee of senior adults assumed full leadership for two children's activities. Three families assumed leadership for delivering meals to homebound residents. Several residents stepped forward and agreed to help with future needs assessment. Communicating this success with apartment officials resulted in an opportunity to meet with staff and discuss future needs and an on-site meeting facility.

Wake:

Many parents living in public housing communities in Wake County feel that they are unable to effect positive change within their communities due to the lack of skills and knowledge. Community Voices for Children, a SmartStart funded, 4-H managed initiative providing leadership development training to parents and caregivers of children birth to five and has been nominated by HUD for the Best Practices Award for implementing the program and providing support to the public housing community. Baytree is located in rural Wake County. Several residences of Baytree completed the Community Voices training, developed an action plan and invited the Mayor to assist them in their decision-making process. The residents developed a newsletter, "Better Baytree". A mission statement was developed which addresses advocating for and strengthening families. All residents of rural Fuquay-Varina are encouraged to join them in making changes for the lives of families and young children.

Wake:

Many of us have been taught that we "can't make a difference in city hall. Participants in Wake County 4-H Youth Development's Community Voices program learn not only that they can make a difference, but how to make that difference. Participants are involved in a series of leadership development activities that help them find their voice and use it to solve problems that they identify in their community. For example, Community Voices participants from the Shiloh community in Morrisville are working with that town's planning department and the Shiloh Community Coalition regarding family friendly development (i.e. parks, walks, libraries). Linda Lyons, a Community Voices graduate, was sworn in as a new Town Commissioner of Morrisville based on their "family-friendly" development platform and active participation in local associations and coalitions.

Rockingham:

Illiteracy robs people of their potential. It blinds them to hope and opportunity. Studies show that school dropouts are more likely to possess low level communication skills. To address this issue in the community two Rockingham county volunteers instituted their own neighborhood tutoring assistance program. One volunteer lives in the housing community. Their program, located in a low-income public housing community provides assistance with reading, writing, listening and speaking skills along with other homework assignments. The assistance is available five days a week. The local housing community manager allows the volunteers to use an office as the location for the tutoring assistance.

Overall Narrative:

A total of 7846 limited resource individuals were exposed to leadership skills. Limited resource and other nontraditional individuals participating in the identification of community problems totaled 3054. The completion of 887 projects/ resolution of issues was achieved by limited resource and other non-traditional leaders. In addition 4649 citizens and leaders participated in community/public decision-making processes as a result of leadership training. A total of 2671 individuals gained facilitation skills that are important in the resolution of issues. A total of 24983 individuals were introduced to volunteer opportunities. A total of 6764 adopted volunteer management practices. Many of these individuals provided volunteer services to their community through local organizations and agencies, involvement in organized community activities, 4-H and homemaker club activities. Some are mentors for other leaders or youth mentors to youth, officers in volunteer organizations, managers of other volunteers and leadership training facilitators.

Claudette L. Smith, Co-chair

Pat Peele, Co-chair

John Gibson Ellen Miller

CEMP #14 - MARKETING AND PRODUCTION OF ALTERNATIVE INCOME OPPORTUNITIES

Program Description

The goal of the CEMP is to assist commercial (objective #1), and small, part time and limited resource producers (objective #2), to select among and implement alternative opportunities so as to increase their income. Program efforts have been made in developing and disseminating information on commercial horticulture specialty crops, niche markets (including organic, herbs and livestock), and agri-tourism. The CEMP team continues to focus on business planning to address issues of risk in production and marketing. It also has helped developing and disseminating materials on coping with change as alternative enterprises are considered. Finally the CEMP played an active roll in helping agriculture in Eastern NC in the face of the flood crisis.

Abstract of Accomplishments

Statewide Measures of Progress Totals

Objective #1

*Producers indicating interest in developing alternative enterprises

NUMBER 1415

*Number of producers who try alternative enterprises, methods and practices

NUMBER 520

Objective #2

1. *Number of producers interested

NUMBER 1401

2. *Number of producers who try alternative enterprises, methods and practices

NUMBER 390

Statewide Impacts Totals

Objective #1

1. *Dollars of new investment in production and marketing of alternative enterprises

NUMBER $2,428,250

2. *Dollars of gross income resulting from new investment and marketing of alternative enterprises.

NUMBER $2,066,075

3. *Number of producers who gain knowledge about alternative production and marketing practices.

NUMBER 1425

Objective #2

1. *Number of producers who gain knowledge about alternative production and marketing practices

NUMBER 1402

2. *Funding support obtained

NUMBER $69,754

Volunteers Involved and Their Value

Objective #1

206 Volunteers provided 7181 hours of volunteer assistance valued at $71,810.00

Objective #2

183 Volunteers provided 1076 hours of volunteer assistance valued at $10,760.00

Success Stories that show Program Impacts

In Lenoir County, during 1998, Cooperative Extension, specialists at the university, and NCDA specialists formed a team with fourteen growers to develop a marketing and production umbrella group focusing on specialty crops. The group has formed a cooperative known as the Southeast Growers Association. All growers have worked with Extension to produce the same high quality product. During 1999, 29 growers worked together and sold about 180 acres of produce. This included cantaloupe, watermelon, tomatoes, squash, lettuce and greens, all sold under the SGA umbrella. The gross was about $980,000. In addition, approximately $100,000 of local business was generated for local truckers and $70,000 for local box companies.

Narrative of Program Progress