Irene Edwards
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program Instructor
“I deliver programming on a level that youth and other audiences can engage, understand, and participate in an exciting and fun setting. We promote eating fresh produce, being wise consumers, and having a healthy mind, body, and environment.”
Since 1999, Irene has been a part of the U of I Extension team. Her work is focused in Peoria County.
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT: Common Place
Throughout Irene’s entire career with U of I Extension she has partnered with Common Place in Peoria. She has been a consistent mentor and educator to the youth and adults who came through the doors at Common Place. Over the years she taught nutrition education, food preparation lessons, and shopping/budgeting skills. The food pantry and youth gardening project also benefited from Irene’s work.
“I would be at Common Place 3 or 4 times every week,” Irene stated. “I tried to be a blessing to them but they always blessed me.”
FAVORITE EFNEP RECIPE: Hamburger Vegetable Soup
Ingredients:
1 pound (more or less) ground beef ½ teaspoon salt
3 Tablespoons chopped onion 3 ½ cups tomato juice
1 (15 oz.) can mixed vegetables & liquid 2 cups beef broth
Pepper, if desired
Instructions:
- Cook ground beef. Drain accumulated fat.
- Add beef broth, tomato juice, and salt.
- Simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Add canned vegetables and liquid.
- Adjust seasoning to suit taste, and simmer for additional 30 minutes.
- Serve with crackers.
EXAMPLES OF IRENE’S PROGRAM PARTNERS
- Proctor Center
- Bethel Missionary
- Manna From Heaven Food Pantry
- Kitty’s Korner
- New Testament Church
- Mickey’s Kiddy Corner
- Dream Center
- Salvation Army