Tara Agama, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—Education Instructor
“I teach preschoolers and early elementary students about healthy eating and how to take care of their organs. Many of my students and their parents tell me they have made healthy changes at home because of our program. I know that I am making a difference.”
Tara Agama has a passion for teaching young children and helping them learn to develop healthy eating habits. She has been a SNAP-Ed instructor for over 18 years with University of Illinois Extension. Tara has been working for University of Illinois Extension since 2001. Her role currently focuses on programs in Peoria County.
EDUCATION
- Illinois Central College, Associate Early Childhood Education
- Northern Michigan University, Medical Office Procedures
EXTENSION SNAP-ED FOCUS AREAS
- Peoria Public Schools
- Head Start
- Community Agencies
- Daycare Centers
- Food Pantries
- Libraries
HONORS AND ACHIEVEMENTS
- University of Illinois Extension SNAP-Ed Team Programming Award 2007 and 2019
FAVORITE SNAP-ED RECIPE: Hamburger Skillet Dinner
- 1 lb. ground beef, lean
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 potato, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced, or 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 large green pepper, cut into thin strips
- 2 cup cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Preparation
1) In a large skillet or pot, brown beef and onion. Drain excess fat. 2) Add rest of ingredients to skillet or pot. 3) Cover and cook on high for 1-2 minutes.
4) Reduce heat and cook slowly (simmer) for 15 minutes.
Nutrition facts available on eat-move-save.extension.illinois.edu
EXAMPLES OF TARA’S PROGRAM PARTNERS
- Mt. Calvary Lutheran Food Pantry
- PCCEO Head Start
- Bright Futures
- Crittenton Centers