On October 9 in Champaign, IL, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education team from Boone, DeKalb and Ogle counties received the top award for excellence in teamwork at University of Illinois Extension’s Illinois Nutrition Education Programs annual Fall Training.
The SNAP-Ed team consists of community workers Jannette Saglier, Mary Beth Christen, and Natalie Coy, and educator Veronica Skaradinski. SNAP-Ed provides engaging in-person nutrition education classes and partners with local organizations to promote healthier settings and food choices.
This award is given to a team that works effectively to accomplish strategic planning goals; creates an environment that encourages trust, open communication, respect and cooperation; places statewide and team goals above individual goals; and builds collaborations to identify and solve problems after considering multiple viewpoints.
“The synergy between newer and experienced team members has been present since monthly multi-county meetings started in 2017. It is our heart and passion for promoting health in our communities that keeps us motivated to support each other to reach team goals and make the process fun!” stated Skaradinski.
By creating an inclusive environment, working together to problem solve despite staffing limitations, and putting team and statewide program goals over individual goals, the SNAP-Ed team in Boone, DeKalb and Ogle counties was able to continue plans and meet the needs of the communities they serve.
The goal of SNAP-Ed is to improve the likelihood that those eligible for Supplemental Food Assistance Program will make healthy food and lifestyle choices that prevent obesity. SNAP-Ed is provided in all fifty states and funded by the United States Department of Agriculture. In Illinois, SNAP-Ed is part of the Illinois Nutrition Education Programs with University of Illinois Extension.
For more information, contact University of Illinois Extension, Ogle County Office, 421 W. Pines Rd. Suite 10, Oregon, IL 61061 or 815-732-2191, extension.illinois.edu/bdo