The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically disrupted Illinois Extension staff’s regular way of working. Low morale among staff was a natural byproduct of working remotely for much of 2020 and early 2021.

County Director Stacy Woodyard brought the team together to improve company morale, boost motivation, and provide positive reinforcement. The main Extension office is just a few miles from beautiful Lincoln Trail State Park in Marshall.

Staff met on a warm, sunny June day at the outdoor pavilion for a short meeting. Even though employees returned to their offices in March of 2021, co-workers from all three offices had not been together for more than a year.

The pavilion allowed staff to maintain social distance, and co-workers filled it with missed chatter. Soon, the business meeting was underway; the team shared their joys, concerns, and a plan for moving forward.

After the meeting, everyone was allowed to enjoy the beauty of nature surrounding them at the park, eat at the outdoor restaurant, and enjoy each other’s company by playing oversized outdoor games.