January 20, 2026
What Does “Home” Mean to You?
Two weeks into my new role as the Greenwood County ANR & 4-H Agent, I feel immense gratitude for the countless people I have worked with and the places I have traveled. I realized that I have made a “home” at each place I have lived and worked. In large part, it felt like “home” because of the relationships I built along the way and the people I have helped.
It's easy to get caught up in the stress and busy schedule of an Extension career and lose sight of what makes this job meaningful. I often find myself questioning whether I have done enough.
When I have those thoughts, it is always the people in my life, both professionally and personally, that ground me by reminding me of how I helped them solve problems or achieve goals.
I have been in Extension for over a decade because I enjoy helping people, and the people around me have made it feel like “home.”
If you are struggling to find or rediscover your “Why” for doing extension work, I suggest you lean into the network of people you have helped and those with whom you work. I guarantee that doing so will recharge your batteries and give you a renewed sense of clarity. As my colleague Rachael Brooke once said, “You are NEVER on an island in this job, always remember you can reach out for help.”
Thank you to the fantastic staff in the Midway District and to my colleagues throughout Extension, who have always helped me feel supported and never like I am on an island.
I sincerely wish all of you a great 2026, and best of luck with the meaningful extension work that you all do.