Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Recruits Volunteers for County-wide Health, Wellness Education Program

September 14, 2017 - Training for New Master Wellness Volunteer Program begins in October

Finding reliable resources of health and wellness information can be a challenge. Since 1906, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service has provided Texans with guidance in various health areas and is now training volunteers to provide more communities with the education and tools needed for healthy living.

The Master Wellness Volunteer Initiative is an AgriLife Extension program that provides volunteers with 40 hours of training in health and nutrition education. In return, the volunteers agree to give back 40 hours of service. The volunteer opportunities are diverse – giving presentations for local community groups, assisting with periodic cooking schools, distributing information at health fairs, and much more. Previous health or wellness training is not required, but an interest in living healthfully and helping others do the same is.

“This is a new and exciting opportunity for individuals interested in learning how to successfully provide wellness information and programs as part of a church ministry, at the worksite, during local health fairs and more.  If you enjoy helping others and want to make a difference in Shelby County, then this program is for you,” said Jheri-Lynn McSwain, Shelby County Extension Agent for Family and Community Health.

Volunteer training for the program will be held at the Extension office, 266 Nacogdoches Street, Center, Texas, in a 5-lesson series from 5 to 7 pm on the following dates:

• October 24
• November 7
• November 14
• November 28
• December 12

The training will focus on physical activity, nutrition, food safety and food demonstrations, child health, various AgriLife Extension health programs, and more. Those interested in participating may call the AgriLife Extension office in Shelby County at 936-598-7744 or e-mail jlmcswain@ag.tamu.edu for more information.