November 28, 2023
Shout Out: River Valley District Staff and Elaine Johannes
This Shout Out comes from Deborah Kohl, program leader coordinator with Community Vitality, and is directed to the River Valley District staff and Elaine Johannes. Deborah writes:
"I want to send a Shout Out to the River Valley District staff for stepping in with the Clay Counts Coalition Community Commitment night on November 14. More than 304 residents participated in a town hall to discuss teen mental health at the Rex Theater.
Following the town hall, eight breakouts were hosted by downtown businesses in their stores covering social medial, healthy choices, anxiety, brain development and resources available for teens and parents.
This event was planned and driven by community members and because Wade Reh (River Valley District Director) and Monica Thayer (Family Resource Management Agent) were tuned in to the coalition and community needs they were able to bring Extension resources to the table to help support the events.
Melissa Boxter (4H Program Coordinator) coordinated childcare for 50 children, creating an opportunity for parents to be present and fully focused on the content delivered. Additionally, Elaine Johannes facilitated a discussion with the planning committee in October to help design and confirm the direction of the evening. Great work, River Valley District! https://www.rivervalley.k-state.edu/Copy%20of%20community%20commitment.pdf."
River Valley District staff and Elaine Johannes, thanks for all you do for the people of Kansas, our colleagues and K-State Research and Extension.
If you know of a colleague or team of colleagues who deserve recognition for a job well done, why not nominate them for a Shout Out. Simply send their name(s) and the reason for the Shout Out to ksreshoutout@ksu.edu.