Illinois Extension reports staffing gains, new 4‑H educator for Effingham County

Casey Kimmy, county director for Clay, Effingham, Fayette and Jasper counties with Illinois Extension, updated the committee on staffing and local programs during the public‑information portion of the meeting.

Kimmy said an office support position in Effingham attracted 24 applicants; campus screening narrowed the list and the local office will interview 10 candidates, with the goal of filling the job in November pending campus approval. Kimmy announced Megan Pearson has been hired as the county’s 4‑H youth development educator, replacing the prior incumbent who moved into another role; Kimmy said Pearson will work with area schools and was expected to attend a future meeting to introduce herself.

Kimmy said the horticulture educator, Shlaxmi Suresh, accepted another position and left Illinois Extension; the office is evaluating how to maintain horticulture and nutrition programming, including a possible transition of Michelle Fondell’s federally supported SNAP‑Ed position into a longer‑term educator role (current federal funding for SNAP‑Ed was reduced but funding for Fondell will continue through June). Kimmy also reported program metrics: Effingham County ended the prior year with about 475 active 4‑H members and more than 100 active volunteers. The Effingham Community Garden received growing‑together funds for raised beds, soil and signage; Extension is exploring a grant with the Effingham Park District for a garden shed.

Kimmy also highlighted Hunters Feeding Illinois partnerships with 25 meat processors statewide (nine local) and said the program expects to meet or exceed last year’s venison donation totals for food assistance.

Ending: Kimmy asked for continued county support and said she will provide updates as staffing and program funding developments continue.