Colorado State University (CSU) Extension empowers communities through education. Two of its standout programs—the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and the Colorado Master Gardener (CMG) Program—are helping Coloradans lead healthier lives and build sustainable communities.
Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)
EFNEP’s Mission: To assist limited-resource audiences in acquiring the knowledge, skills, attitudes and changed-behavior necessary for nutritionally sound diets, and to contribute to their personal development and the improvement of the total family diet and nutritional well-being.
EFNEP is a federally funded initiative designed to help low-income individuals and families make healthier food choices, become more physically active, and save money on groceries. Delivered by trained Peer Educators, EFNEP’s hosts a 9-week series of classes utilizing their Eating Smart • Being Active curriculum.
Target Audience
- Adults and pregnant/parenting teens use the Eating Smart • Being Active curriculum.
- 3rd graders engage with the Show Me Nutrition curriculum, which includes physical activity, food-tasting, and practicing healthy habits.
- Teens follow the Eating Smart • Being Active for Teens curriculum, which includes eight lessons:
Key Features of EFNEP:
- Nutrition Education: Participants learn how to prepare balanced meals, read nutrition labels, and shop smart.
- Physical Activity: Classes incorporate movement to promote overall wellness.
- Budgeting Skills: EFNEP teaches strategies for maximizing food budgets without sacrificing nutrition.
- Community Impact: EFNEP strengthens families and communities by improving dietary habits and reducing reliance on public assistance
Colorado Master Gardener Program (CMG)
The CSU Extension Master Gardener program began in 1975 in Denver, Boulder, Jefferson, and El Paso counties. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life for Coloradans by educating local communities, helping individuals with plant care, and fostering successful gardeners.
For those passionate about gardening and community service, the Colorado Master Gardener Program offers a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and give back. Volunteers receive in-depth training in horticulture and then share their knowledge through outreach and education.
Highlights of the CMG Program:
- Green School Training: A 60-hour hybrid course covering soil science, plant care, pest management, and more.
- Volunteer Service: Master Gardeners contribute 50 hours of community service in their first year, helping others solve gardening challenges.
- Environmental Stewardship: CMGs promote sustainable practices and help protect Colorado’s natural resources.
- Accessible Learning: The program is open to all, with options for hobbyists through short courses and certificates.
After completing training, Master Gardener volunteers teach classes, staff booths (like Farmer’s markets), write blogs, develop videos, maintain demonstration gardens, and more.
Check out CSU Extension Master Gardener’s Blog: CO-Horts.
Why These Programs Matter
Both EFNEP and CMG reflect CSU Extension’s mission to enhance the quality of life for Coloradans through education. EFNEP addresses food insecurity and health disparities, while CMG fosters environmental awareness and community resilience. Together, they represent the power of knowledge in action.
If you're looking to improve your health, grow your own food, or make a difference in your community, these programs are a great place to start.
