People, Partnerships and Programs

Published: 2020
By Katelyn Andersen

Community partnerships are key to building programs to address county needs and fundamental to Extension programming efforts in Ravalli County. MSU Extension generates a monthly e-newsletter to share about programs and resources to a mailing list of over 2,300 individuals located throughout the valley. Last spring, MSU Extension agent Katelyn Andersen compiled a weekly e-newsletter full of resources and information from local, state and national agencies to help community members access resources to assist during the pandemic. This quick response paired with the large database of individuals was an asset for disbursing information and complimented the work of Ravalli County Organizations Active in Disaster (RCOAD). Murrillo routinely provided updates from food pantries and Andersen provided learning opportunities focused on well-being, nutrition and finances. In the fall, the committee invited MSU Extension to be a partner in their efforts. Partnerships are an integral aspect of MSU Extension’s health and wellness challenges, held throughout the year. WINter Wellness, 5K Your Way, and Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN have been staple health incentives to encourage constituents to stay active regardless of inclement weather. Since inception in 2017 and under Andersen’s leadership, this award-winning program has engaged over 800 adults from every community in Ravalli County. Participants report notable impacts of increased motivation to move due to this program, improved mental health, increase of social ties in the community and increased engagement in physical activity. County Residents Contact MSU Extension for Horticulture and Food Preservation Needs Spring brought warmer weather and an increased desire for Ravalli County residents to grow a garden and be self-reliant. Throughout the spring, summer and fall, individuals were able to receive gardening advice tailored to the Bitterroot Valley through the horticulture program. During harvest time, individuals sought canning advice and assistance from Andersen. The increased interest in food preservation caused a nation-wide shortage of canning jars and lids, which required residents to learn about the diverse ways to safely preserve the garden bounty. In response, Andersen assisted in providing an online Food Preservation 101 Series, taught by Extension specialists and agents.