Taylorville, Ill. - Lisa Peterson, Extension acting county director, is pleased to introduce Taylor Pope, who has joined University of Illinois Extension as a community outreach worker for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) serving Christian County. She will coordinate with schools and community organizations to identify audiences for SNAP-Ed programming to provide basic nutrition, food safety, physical activity, and food budgeting education.

A native of Raymond, Taylor was actively involved in 4-H and FFA while growing up and was a 10-year 4-H member of the Raymond Buckeyes 4-H Club. After high school, Taylor attended Lincoln Land Community College, where she received her associate's degree. She currently attends University of Illinois Springfield, working on her bachelor's degree in business administration with a minor in marketing. Before accepting her current position, Taylor was a teacher and an aide at Lily Pad Learning Center in Litchfield and was extra help during the summer for University of Illinois Extension.

Pope stated, “I have had many great experiences through U of I Extension and my years in 4-H. I am honored to be a part of a great organization. I look forward to collaborating with adults and youth to provide information and skills to empower families to make positive changes for their health.” In her free time, Taylor enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, reading, and gardening.

Anyone interested in contacting Taylor may reach her at Christian County Extension by calling 217-287-7246 or emailing tpope4@illinois.edu. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.

ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.