The Extension Master Food Volunteer (EMFV) program is designed to engage community members in food and nutrition programming in their counties so that trained volunteers expand N.C. Cooperative Extension's reach in meeting local needs. Much like the highly recognized Extension Master Gardener Volunteers, you can expect the volunteers to have a mastery in their field of programming. Over the last 3 months, six trainees have advanced through 30 hours of core curriculum training to equip them as they provide unbiased, research-based information on food systems, healthy cooking, and food safety. Over the next year, trainees will obtain 30 hours of internship shadowing with Lee County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, Ashley Szilvay, and Local Foods Agent, Meredith Favre. This next year of shadowing will allow them to gain valuable experience as they are slated to earn the status of an EMFV in 2025.
In the featured photo two EMFV trainees, Joy Shockey and Bobbie West, provide educational programming during the Sanford Farmers’ Market at the Senior Enrichment Center. Making connections to the Farm to Senior program where members are growing produce in raised garden beds and grow bags, this outreach provided information on how to utilize and preserve herbs. One way shown was through infused waters. Staying hydrated as we age and in these extreme temperatures is critical to ensure our bodies stay healthy and properly function. Local fruits, vegetables, and herbs can be thrown into your daily water cups providing a healthy way to provide flavor. A refreshing sample was provided during this day of an infused water variation that married the flavors of cucumber, lime, and mint. Trainees made sure to make note of best food safety practices such as washing all fresh produce, choosing quality, unblemished produce, and maintaining the temperature of the water at or below 41F. If the infused water is left out at room temperature for 4 hours, discard it and try a new variation!
Other areas of service opportunities in which EMFV will use their mastery are at health fairs, community cooking demonstrations, youth programs, and newsletter and newspaper articles!
N.C. Cooperative Extension’s goal is to provide the residents of the community with research-based knowledge. For more information on nutrition, health, food preservation, and food safety in Lee County please contact the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, Ashley Szilvay at 919-775-5624.
