Progress 09/01/13 to 08/31/18
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience for this project are farmers and farm families with disabilities or long-term health issues who wish to continue in or return to an agricultural occupation. The AgrAbility Project for Pennsylvanians is funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture-National Institute of Food and Agriculture and is designed to help farmers and farm families with disabilities or long-term health issues who wish to continue in or return to production agriculture. The project is a partnership between Penn State Cooperative Extension, Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health, United Cerebral Palsy of Central Pa, and the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation in collaboration with many other agriculture organizations through the state. We do on-site farm assessments to identify daily farm tasks or chores that difficult because of the disability, identify modifications, equipment or assistive technology that will help a farmer complete such tasks or chores, make referrals to service providers, provide information regarding state and local resources and program, and conduct or participate in education programs to foster farm safety and health. Changes/Problems:We worked on all objectives identified to become more effective. The Scientist Support (SY) was too small to be capatured it is 0.037. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?We collaborated with OVR to provide inservice programming for their counselors. Weworked with veteran groups and added a Navy veteran to our project advisory committee. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?As stated above, we updated our listserv to over 1,000 individuals. Plus, we printed two paper newsletters each project yearfor individuals who prefer hard copies. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?We added two faculty members to the AgrAbility staff to increase our effectiveness in serving farmers who may be experiencing stress.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Obj 1.a AgrAbility worked with OT/PT to develop a poster/handout titled 'The Farmer, the Farm and Farming: More than Seeds and Manures. Assisting Farmers Tell and Own Their Story of Everyday Living'. This handout (45 copies) was distributed to OTs, OTAs, and students at the POTA meeting in the fall of 201. We also had an educational display to increase awareness of the project and to help OTs learn about rural farm modifications. Objective 1.b. AgrAbility exhibited at the PAAE Summer Institute. We continue to see more involvement by FFA Chapters and were recently named the recipient of the funds from an FFA fundraiser. Personal contact was made with FFA chapter to work directly with clients and FFA chapters were requesting information about the project. The activity related to the EPICS project has been deleted because of the increased cost. Our involvement with eXtension (FReSH) included being an integral part of the day-to-day management of the FReSH site and also integrating AgrAbility and rural rehabilitation information into the site. An activity this year related to FReSH was to add the new series of rural rehab factsheets published by the Ohio State University on the resource guide located on the eXtension site increasing the visibility. FReSH/AgrAbility was also involved in the Safety in Ag for Youth Project and participated in the National Steering Committee and the Farm and Ranch Youth Safety Symposium. OBJ 1.c. The Pa Rural Health Farm Worker Protection Safety Program Coordinator provides Worker Protection Standard services across the state and continues to provide AgrAbility information to growers and farm owners/managers when appropriate. We support the PA Office of Rural Health and distributed AgrAbility information at the 2014 East Coast Migrant Forum in Pittsburgh. AgrAbility participates in the main statewide agricultural events like the Keystone Farm Show and Ag Progress Days as well as other venues as possible. The tent activities include hands-on activities, pesticide applicator credits, health screenings, and educational resources. Outreach to farm equipment dealership is an important part of increasing awareness about AgrAbility.OBJ 1.d. The 2-3 webinars per year goal was not realistic this year because of staff skill sets and the increased number of webinars offered through AgriSafe, National AgrAbility, and other SRAPS. We promoted those webinars hosted by other organizations through our social media mechanisms including announcements and archived webinars when available. AgrAbility staff participated in several webinars this year related to professional development and expanding skills to better serve clients. Pa AgrAbility was an integral part of the statewide OVR training for the FARM Coordinators work most AgrAbility cases throughout the state. PATF, our non-profit partner at the time, presented training on funding resources for the FARM Coordinators. Pa AgrAbility staff conducted a presentation on farm assessments, recommendation reports, and OVR changes. In addition to working with OVR, we worked with the Vet Administration by meeting with staff in the Pittsburgh office to discuss AgrAbility services. OBJ 1.e An article, "Aging in Place", was included in the fall 2014 newsletter. In addition, contact information to learn more about accessible, affordable home modifications were included in the Q&A Farm Tips. PATF provided OVR counselors with funding information for home modifications.2.a. Help to develophomepage and 2 articles uploaded to eXtension. Site to be live in October, continued partnership with the Women in Ag Learning Network through eXtension, obtained photo consent form from Green Heron Tools for use on eXtension,proposal submitted for presentation in May to highlight AgrAbility, wearable tech, and eXtension,participated in the NAP Virtual National Training Workshop, participated in the NAP Evaluation Committee conference call. 2.b. Presented AgrAbility and farming veteran information at the PA CAREs meeting, added contact information to our mailing list, sent follow up information, sent PA Veteran Farming Project information to be distributed via the PA CAREs listserv, emailed information to the Veterans Outreach Program Specialist for the Bucks County Vet Center, shared AgrAbility information with the Centre County area Marine Recruiter. 2.c. Completed an online profile for AgrAbility on PASA's website, 2.d. Exhibited at the PA WAgN Annual Symposium in State College, 2.e. Activities for September 2017: ? Referred two farmers to NAP, participated in the NTW planning call, provided information and vendor information to the Toolbox, Contacted OVR about attending the NTW, Submitted a session proposal for the 2018 NTW, 2.f Had a successful Ag Progress Days tent, 3a Promoted and shared information about a DEP cost share grant that farmer s could be eligible for and could enable them to implement items such as energy efficient lighting, participated in an AgriSafe webinar to learn about hearing loss and hearing protection information that can be shared with clients, 3bWe provided direct services to over 30farm producers, 3.c. AgrAbility provided general and specific information regarding home modifications and arthritis to AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians' clients and the general farm population concerning low cost modifications for the home and farm operation,4 We expanded our marketing by getting a hotlink on project collaborators website and continually updated our project listserv.
Publications
- Type:
Journal Articles
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Vines, K.A. 2018. Exploration of Engaged Practice in Cooperative Extension and Implications for Higher Education. Journal of Extension. 56(4).
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Agole, D. 2018. PARTICIPATION IN CAPACITY-BUILDING PROGRAMS AND THE IMPLICATIONS FOR THE WELLBEING OF YOUNG FARMERS WITH AND WITHOUT DISABILITIES IN UGANDA. Pennsylvania State University. Unpublished Dissertation. 144 pp.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Agole, D. Baggett, C.D. 2018. Implication of education for participation of young farmers with and without disabilities in agricultural capacity building programs in Uganda. 16th Hawaii International Conference on Education.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Agole, D. Baggett, C.D. 2018. Influence Of Disability Type On Participation Of Young Farmers With Disabilities In Agricultural Capacity Building Programs And Well-Being In Uganda. AAAE Southern Regional Research Conference. Memphis, TN.
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Progress 09/01/16 to 08/31/17
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience for this project is farmers and farm families with disabilities or long-term health issues who wish to continue in or return to an agricultural occupation. The AgrAbility Project for Pennsylvanians is funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture-National Institute of Food Agriculture and is designed to help farmers and farm families with disabilities or long-term health issues who wish to continue in or return to production agriculture. The project is a partnership between Penn State Cooperative Extension, Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health, and Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation in collaboration with many other agriculture organizations throughout the state. We do on-site farm assessments to identify daily farm tasks or chores that are difficult because of the disability, identify modifications, equipment or assistive technology that will help a farmer complete such tasks or chores, make referrals to service providers, provide information regarding state and local resources and programs, and conduct or participate in educational program to foster farm safety and health. Changes/Problems:At this point, AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians has a great team going forward and we will make great strides and progress this no-cost extension project period. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?This project developed and distributed educational materials in the form of brochures and newsletters were mailed to the COTA conference at Lehigh Carbon Community College, and a scholarship was awarded to an OT to attend the NTW. AgrAbility project assistant attended the 2017 AOTA conference. A LearnNow work session for May 2017. Informational packets were sent to Keystone Orthopedic PT and requested that AOTA add us on their social media page. AgrAbility info was also shared with OT?PT students at PSU DuBois. Some materials were shared with PSU Ag Spanish class for education and outreach, posted AgrAbility Daily tips on Facebook and Twitter and uploaded article about Bridging Horizon to AgrAbility website, and provided a training workshop to NC AgrAbility staff. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?We exhibited at Farm Fest in Center Hall, increased activity on Instagram, on FaceBook, Twitter, and Pinterest. We re-designed AgrAbility PA printed newsletter "Field Notes Spring 2016" and mailed to more than 1,800 contacts which featured a client story, arthritis information, assistive technology, upcoming events, and contact/social media information. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?With a no-cost extension, we will continue to work on the current objectives until funds are exhausted.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
OBJ 1.a Brochures and newsletters were mailed to the COTA conference at Lehigh Carbon Community College, and a scholarship was awarded to an OT to attend the NTW. AgrAbility project assistant attended the 2017 AOTA conference. A LearnNow work session for May 2017. Informational packets were sent to Keystone Orthopedic PT and requested that AOTA add us on their social media page. AgrAbility info was also shared with OT/PT students at PSU DuBois.OBJ 1.b. Project personnel attended the 3 Corp meeting in San Antonio and outlined project with A Yoder to use wearable technology to ergonomically test prototypes of manure forks as a small test groups in PA and NE. Lesson plan to replicate the methodology, short videos, and articles were produced. Personnel shared work plan, timeline, project scope and other details on a concept for PA's Bridging Horizons program for FFA students at the AgrAbility PA Advisory Meeting in State College, Pa. New focus may be on women and ergonomics and safety. Campus organization advisors were contacted via email about a fundraiser; distributed info on PAAE listserv; and drafted article about ergonomic tools. Plus, personnel launched Bridging Horizons PA Contest for FFA members; mailed 500 contest postcards - Ag educators and FFA advisors/school chapters about Bridging Horizons; posted to websites, blog, and social media; presented at PAAE summer conference; produced 1,000 printed postcards with contest info; involved DTS with clients for the Penny War. We an email to the ag teacher listserv about AgrAbility and National AgrAbility Day; shared info about the Bridging Horizons PA Contest. OBJ 1.c. Personnel attended outreach to Latino groups and learned about distributing the fotonuvelos to Spanish speaking farm workers. Materials were shared with PSU Ag Spanish class for education and outreach and met with Elsa Sanchez, Assistant professor, to discuss how AgrAbility can assist them in their outreach to the Spanish and Latino groups. We participated in an Extension workshop for outreach to Latino populations and visited a Latino farmer and followed up with Spanish language materials to Hispanic and Latinos at the Adams County Grower Day. Likewise, a farm assessment for an Amish family was completed and distributed posters and information to Belleville Amish area and participated in the Amish Handicap Gathering where over 600 Amish farmers attended. In August, we provided AgrAbility info, vision screenings; stoke assessments, blood pressure testing, dental health and WPS information in the PORH and Safety tent at APD; and several Amish and Mennonites farm families participated. OBJ 1.d. Efforts on this objective were good but we hope to have enhanced activities for the next project year. Some foundation work was accomplished through conference calls with PDLI-OVR FARM coordinators. However, e-newsletters were distributed monthly as "Field Notes" to 700+ database contacts each time. The PSU Extension staff received our materials and positive feedback was experienced.OBJ 1.e Discussed home mod ideas with a client, the client's family and OVR at a farm assessment and Featured home modification article in monthly e-newsletter "Field Notes", participated in a PA ABLE webinar to be able to better provide information about this resource to individuals with disabilities.OBJ 2.a. Selected project personnel attended the i-Three Corp meeting in San Antonio by eXtension and outlined project with Aaron Yoder. An email to 3 contacts in PA about the study and possible working with women in ag in their circles was sent. Three project members participated in NCERA-197 meeting in DC. OBJ 2.b. A lot of work is still needed in working with military veterans. However, the project director wrote an informative article for the newsletter on the needed programming for military veterans. Contact was made with the PA Veteran Farmer Project. We provided information to a veteran about PATF, OVR and FVC and we shared digital brochure with PA CAREs listserv as well as talked to a veteran on the phone about applying for the FVC Fellowship fund.OBJ 2.c. Project personnel attended a Working Women's Wednesday Dairy Extension event and networked with local dairy farmers and extension leaders. We exhibited and provided AgrAbility information and the PCO Farm Fest in Centre County and participated in the USDA Women in Ag conference call. OBJ 2.d. We added a question about Arthritis and the AF to our client assessment form and included information about Arthritis Foundation in Spring 2017 printed newsletter "Field Notes." We also provided arthritis information to all July clients and shared arthritis information on our social media. OBJ 2.e. Project personnel attended the 25th National AgrAbility and ordered the NTW order of booklets from NAP. We created content and submitted to the April, June, August, and Sept E-note. We joined the 2018 NTW planning as well as participated in Evaluation Committee conference call. We participated in marketing National AgrAbility Day (Sept 19) alongside NAP and SRAPs, participated in the staff meeting, provided a scholarship for a client to attend the NTW, provided a training workshop to NC AgrAbility staff, and updated McGill responses.OBJ 2.f. Project members attended Ag Progress Days meeting where we contacted clients about attending the 25th anniversary luncheon. We had a very successful APD tent! OBJ 3.a. The project assistant conducted a farm assessment for clients in Erie, Lackawanna, Susquehanna, York, Armstrong, Wyoming, Union, Fayette, Union, Westmoreland, Blair, Bedford, Centre, Lancaster, Crawford, Lawrence, McKean, Snyder, Lycoming, Huntingdon, Northampton, Indiana, Perry, Sullivan, Northumberland, Monroe, Schuylkill, Mercer, Washington, and Jefferson Counties. Several of these counties had multiple farmer clients. Plus, some farmer clients received OT/PT evaluations and depending upon the extent of their disability, were referred to PDLI-OVR. Just about all required follow-up evaluations by the project assistant and/or OT/PT professional. Recommendation reports were written for all clients. Funding of assistive technology continues to be an obstacle for many clients. Consequently, some were referred to PATF, local banks, charitable foundations, and OVR. We also referred a farmer to Ohio AgrAbility.OBJ 3.b. Work is needed for this objective.OBJ 3.c. We added home modification questions to the assessment form OBJ 4. We added a question to the farm assessment asking how farmers prefer to receive additional information (email, phone, mail, social media, etc.), added articles and information to website, added new and potential clients to the mailing list, contributed content to AgrAbility PA social media outlets, coordinated an Instagram "take over' with Paws and PATF and affection service dog organization, and created marketing campaign around National AgrAbility Day (Sept 19) that included enhanced promotion in social media, e-newsletter, legislative outreach, and with other affiliate organizations. We exhibited at Farm Fest in Center Hall, increased activity on Instagram, on FaceBook, Twitter, and Pinterest. We re-designed AgrAbility PA printed newsletter "Field Notes Spring 2016" and mailed to more than 1,800 contacts which featured a client story, arthritis information, assistive technology, upcoming events, and contact/social media information. We re-designed AgrAbility PA brochure. We participated in the Agricultural Health and Safety twitter chat #RuralHealthChat hosted by the Rural Health Information PSU HUB and posted AgrAbility Daily tips on Facebook and Twitter and uploaded article about Bridging Horizon to AgrAbility website.
Publications
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Facebook: This project has published on the project Facebook page during this portion of project year-4. The page can be accessed at https://www.facebook.com/pages/AgrAbility-PA/473444052782031. This page is also listed as part of the webpage and allows visitors to view and comment on postings.
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Twitter: This project has used our project Twitter account page during this portion of project year-4. This account is also listed as part of the www.agrabilityPa.org webpage and allows visitors to view, comment and follow AgrAbility.
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
LinkedIn: This project has established a LinkedIn account where professional can join. It can be accessed at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agrabilitypa/en.
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Pinterest: This project has developed a Pinterest page where interested individuals can access and post appropriate materials. It can be accessed at: https://www.pinterest.com/agrabilitypa/
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2016
Citation:
Blog: This project developed and maintains a Blog to provide timely information about events, issues, and concerns relative to AgrAbility. It can be seen at: https://agrabilitypa.wordpress.com/
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Vines, K.A. 2017. Engagement through cooperative extension: Towards understanding meaning and practice among educators in two state extension systems. Pennsylvania State University. Unpublished Dissertation. 386 pp.
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Webpage: This project has published on a project webpage during this portion of project year-4. The webpage can be accessed at http://extension.psu.edu/business/agrability. It can also be accessed through www.agrabilityPa.org which is easier to remember for some users. This webpage has several features as specified by Penn State Extension. It informs visitors about the efforts and activities of the project and lists project personnel.
- Type:
Theses/Dissertations
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Pease, C. F. 2017. Assessing the online content on agrability project websites. Pennsylvania State University. Unpublished Thesis. 87 pp.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
News releases: This project has released three news articles to the 77 media outlets during this portion of project year-4
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Progress 09/01/15 to 08/31/16
Outputs
Target Audience:AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians is a partnership between Penn State Cooperative Extension, and The United Cerebral Palsy Foundation of Central Pennsylvania. AgrAbility provides direct services to farmers and farm families with an injury or disability who wish to continue in agricultural production. AgrAbility continues to strengthen its project through volunteer efforts from students groups and organizations. Coordinated activities throughout the state include Pa Department of Agriculture, county and regional Cooperative Extension offices, agriculturally related businesses, rehabilitation and trauma hospitals, rural clinics, social service agencies, non-profit organizations, Pa Department of Labor and Industry's (PDLI) vocational rehabilitation offices, and other resources. Some of the major objectives for this project are to enhance the basic knowledge and cultural competency of occupational therapy students and practitioners, to increase the knowledge of both high school and college level students by providing relevant AgrAbility information including assistive technology and funding opportunities for assistive technology, to increase awareness of AgrAbility services for under-served populations in Pennsylvania, to increase awareness of home modifications and accessibility recreation to address the holistic needs of the producer with a disability, to partner with FSA and NRCS to increase awareness of AgrAbility within their staff and to identify programs that can provide support and assistance to AgrAbility customers, to collaborate with the PDLI's Hiram G. Andrew Center and the new traumatic brain injury center to increase awareness among staff and returning military personnel, and to collaborate with the Pittsburgh, Erie and Philadelphia Veterans Medical Centers to improve the capability of PA AgrAbility. Changes/Problems:The project went really smooth this past year. Our non-profit partner is just great! However, there was one area where we will need to look at alternatives--Angie Hissong was promoted to department head and does not have the time needed to participate in OT/PT webinars. We will identify some else to assist with these webinars. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Training was conducted for OVR counselors at the annual meeting at the PennStater Hotel and Conference Center. Plus, presentations about AgrAbility were made to undergraduate students fall and spring semesters. Three students chose the project for service learning experiences. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Our newsletter was mailed in March to more than 1,800 contacts. It now includes all Extension offices, Granges, Centers for Independent Living, PA Ag Organizations, PA Farm Service Organizations, PA Elks Nurses, PA Ag Teachers, County Agencies on Aging. We believe we have the communities of interest covered.. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Pennsylvania's proposed work plan utilizes partnerships and collaborations to implement programs and services that address USDA priority areas including --education, networking, assistance, and marketing. OBJECTIVE 1a. Education Activities: Enhance cultural awareness of farming and farmer's needs with occupational and physical therapy students and faculty in the 50+ programs (associate, master and doctorate) across the state of Pennsylvania, as well as, to practitioners via face-to-face presentations, fieldwork opportunities, and webinars. OBJECTIVE 1.b. Education Activities: Provide AgrAbility information to agricultural educators via their listserv and/or summer institute. Maintain and expand Bridging Horizons program for FFA students. Support and expand the Penny War competition to benefit AgrAbility clients. Participate in eXtension via the Family Community of Practice and Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FReSH) Community of Practice. OBJECTIVE 1.c Education Activities: Support the Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health in providing information to owners and operators that employ migrant/seasonal farm workers and Latinos. Provide educational activities concerning health and safety at the Keystone Farm Show, Ag Progress Days, and other state and county venues. Provide a minimum of two educational trainings per year to farm owners, operators, employees, health educators, agri-businesses, or equipment dealerships that come into direct contact with farmers with a disability in their communities. Distribute fotonuvelo produced by National AgrAbility Project and California AgrAbility about arthritis to audiences for migrant and seasonal worker through Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health. OBJECTIVE 1.d. Education Activities: Provide 2-3 webinars and/or podcasts per year providing specific information regarding AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians, assistive technology, and funding. Conduct one annual AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians training for VR counselors either in person or via webinar. Training emphasized for new VR staff but available to all rehab counselors. Publish and distribute an AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians newsletter two times a year OBJECTIVE 1.e Education Activities: Provide home modification information in two AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians newsletters per year. Highlight accessible recreation or adaptive sports information in one AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians newsletter per year. Outcome: Increase the holistic-based information provided to individuals with disabilities and their families through newsletters, workshops, webinars, and podcasts. OBJECTIVE 2.a. Networking Activities: Develop a minimum of one article per year for posting on eXtension. Conduct webinars and advertise learning opportunities through Learn section of eXtension. OBJECTIVE 2.b. Networking Activities: Participate in monthly PA Cares meetings and activities that focus on veteran services and reintegration. Collaborate with Operation Military Kids (OMK) to enhance the distribution of AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians information through OMK activities or services. Identify and assist veterans with disabilities to maintain employment in their agricultural operation. OBJECTIVE 2.c. Networking Activities: Partner with PASA to involve AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians information in their annual conference and at least one field day per year. Provide a minimum of one educational session at a Wag'N sponsored event. OBJECTIVE 2.d. Networking Activities: Provide Arthritis Foundation information to appropriate AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians clients. Work with AF to provide an educational outreach session about arthritis and agriculture. Outcome: Increased knowledge about the AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians services and arthritis. OBJECTIVE 2.e. Networking Activities: AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians staff will participate in NAP Communities of Interest. AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians staff will participate in standing committees. AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians staff will partner with Mid-Atlantic SRAPS to coordinate, plan, and host a minimum of one educational retreat for staff. Submit scholarship for an AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians client to attend NAP workshop. OBJECTIVE 2.f Year 1-4: Coordinate AgrAbility and Rural Health tent at Ag Progress Days. Year 1-4: Coordinator and provide health screenings and information relative to agricultural producers. OBJECTIVE 3.a. Assistance Activities: Facilitate on-site farm assessments (25/Yr. 1, 35/Yr. 2, 45/Yr. 3 and 55/Yr. 4).Provide occupational or physical therapy evaluations for all clients working with OVR. Provide AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians recommendation reports to the Pennsylvanian Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for their clients. Collaborate on the use of other services available throughout Pennsylvania including the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation; Pennsylvania Initiative on Assistive Technology; Elk Nurses, and Centers for Independent Living. Services promote assistive technology lending library, low interest loans, loans/grants for assistive technology and the Pennsylvania Telecommunication Distribution Program for telephones and communication devices.Provide toll free phone number to increase accessibility to AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians services. Facilitate the use of government employment support services through information from the PA Disability Rights Network. Collaborate with Assistive Technology Resource Centers (ATRCs) to promote the use of reused equipment exchange program for home and farm modifications. Partner with the Centers for Independent Living to utilize their peer support network to involve agricultural producers and develop and distribute information on the Affordable Care Act. Work the Pa Department of Health and US Department of HHS to gather appropriate information for farmers. OBJECTIVE 3.b. Assistance Activities: Partner with Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and Veterans Administration (VA) in their initiative to provide services to veterans. Partner with the VA to assist individuals in identifying assistive technology and accommodations that will help them maintain their occupation in production agriculture. OBJECTIVE 3.c. Assistance Activities: Provide information concerning home modifications and assistive technology to AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians' clients and general farm population at educational and agricultural events as well as farm assessments. Increase the awareness of Aging in Place and improve accessibility in the home and on the farm. Partner with the Arthritis Foundation to increase the use of their self-help program for AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians' clients. OBJECTIVE 4 Marketing Activities: Update and maintain an accessible AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians website. Link AgrAbility website to accessible website by PA Assistive Technology Foundation. Publish two AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians newsletters per year which will provide information about available services, home modifications, client stories, and other pertinent information to enhance the lives of producers with a disability. Newsletter will be sent via mailing list, electronically and posted on the AgrAbility website. Launch and maintain a new AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians Facebook page to provide information through social networking mechanisms. Utilize FReSH (eXtension)'s social media venues to increase awareness. (AgSafety4u Facebook and Twitter). Develop an AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians marketing plan. Participate at Ag Progress Days and Keystone Farm Show. Distribute a minimum of five press releases per year to rural publications in Pennsylvania.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
OBJECTIVE 1.a. -Dwight Heller, project OT/PT)attended the NTW on a scholarship, promoted National AgrAbility Webinar Archive in e-note, scheduled LearnNow work session with Angie Hissong for May, spoke with 15 PT students about AgrAbility services and AT. OBJECTIVE 1.b. - AgrAbility participated at the PAAE summer conference, attended eXtension meeting and made connections with Military Family and Women in Ag CoPs, attended PAAE Summer Conference as a vendor, attended the i-Three Corp meeting in San Antonio and outlined project. Wearable Tech LN, Women in Ag LN, and FReSH (ag safety), developed and emailed e-newsletter to FReSH CoP for summer 2015, had an exhibit at the Biglerville Fruit Lab Grower Day, set up an information table at 4-H State Days community service session, shared work plan, timeline, project scope and other details on a concept for PA's Bridging Horizons program for FFA students at annual AgrAbility PA Advisory Board Meeting. OBJECTIVE 1.c. -spoke at the Blair County Cover Crop Day, attended the Sustainable Student Farm presentation to find out if AgrAbility can benefit, exhibited at 100th Pennsylvania Farm Show and Keystone Farm show, loaned out Spanish arthritis flipchart to PORH to share with extension offices and others he works with, ordered fotonuvelos, participated in APD meeting, provided AgrAbility brochures and packets to PORH, had a display at the Fruit Research Farm Grower Field Day, shared a booth with PORH at the Mid-Atlantic Fruit and Vegetable Growers Convention, started outreach to statewide nonprofit Pennsylvania Relief Sale organization and Anabaptist community. OBJECTIVE 1.d.- Conference with OVR FARM coordinators, provided information to OVR district farm coordinator contact, created content, design, layout, etc. for e-newsletter, developed information about equipment reuse programs in PA, distribute monthly e-newsletter "Field Notes" to database contacts, developed a comprehensive outreach list (snail mail and electronic), participated in a webinar training session, participated in the 2015 Cooperative Extension conference, participated in the AgrAbility Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Webinar, and promoted NIFA, AgriSafe and National AgrAbility webinars via social media. OBJECTIVE 1.e - featured story in April 2016 e-newsletter "Field Notes", featured home modification article in monthly e-newsletter "Field Notes", wrote ag safety article for AgrAbility newsletter.OBJECTIVE 2.a. - used wearable technology to ergonomically test prototypes of manure forks, contributed to and reviewed article for FReSH. CoP discussed ways to interact more with each other and how to work with Extension Educators, promoted article via Facebook and Twitter, promoted mobile ag safety and health app article through AgrAbility Facebook page, updated McGill client information with pre- and post-tests, and worked with Women in Ag CoP pm a project that addresses ergonomics and women. OBJECTIVE 2.b.- presented at the PA CARES meeting and handed out flyers and newsletters, met with staff at Slippery Rock University to discuss veterans in Ag outreach and education programs, worked with the Military Youth Program, met with the Disability Rights Network, provided information about AgrAbility, provided information to a disabled veteran seeking to increase their agricultural production, and shared digital brochure with PA CAREs listserv. OBJECTIVE 2.c. attended a Working Women's Dairy Extension event and networked with local dairy farmers and extension leaders, attended Farm Fest and talked to PASA about upcoming events, provided AgrAbility information to several farm vendors and gathered information on how AgrAbility can participate in the future, met with Strong Women, Growing Stronger and shared AgrAbility information, exhibited at PA Wag'N networking day, and participated in an Ag Choice Farm Girls networking event. OBJECTIVE 2.d. -worked the Master Gardener program to provide Arthritis Foundation information,included information about Arthritis Foundation in "Field Notes", provided farm related arthritis brochures to the local arthritis foundation. OBJECTIVE 2.e.- Input McGill information for new client in Westmoreland Co., participated in the NAP - Evaluation conference call meeting, attended the ISASH conference and networked with AgrAbility staff from other states, initiated benchmarking activities against other state AgrAbility projects. Prepared pre-tests for new clients, participated in the Advisory Group and facilitated the outreach session, participated in webinar related to Amish Population,submitted January e-note, and summarized activities for annual report. OBJECTIVE 2.f- attended the Ag Progress Days meeting and discussed NYCAMH trailer, contact made with CPI concerning student participation at APD and confirmed participation with Susan at Mt. Nittany Health concerning stroke risk assessment at APD, met with PORH to discuss upcoming Rural Health & Safety tent activities, ordered give a ways and posters for Ag Progress Days, participated in CAS-APD meeting, and provided AgrAbility information, assistive technology information, health and safety information, health screenings and hands-on activities at Ag Progress Days.OBJECTIVE 3.a. - Conducted client farm assessments, organized OT/PT client evaluations, wrote, and submitted recommendation reports for farmers in Clearfield, Westmoreland, Bedford, Lawrence, Mifflin, Jefferson, Union, Snyder, Fayette, Northampton, Somerset, York, Counties. Many counties had multiple farmers being served. The total number was 63 for this project period. Contacts and clients referrals were made to OVR Johnstown District, Washington District, Allentown District, Williamsport District, DuBois District, and DuBois District OVRs. OBJECTIVE 3.b. - Interacted with veterans' services organizations at 100th Pa Farm Show event. The event was geared towards veteran/active military. Project staff met with the state of OVR to provide information about AgrAbility and to discuss working together to increase services to farmers and especially veteran farmers. Only three veterans were served during this project year. OBJECTIVE 3.c. - AT spotlight article included in monthly e-newsletter "Field Notes", attended PA Farm Bureau's Health & Safety Fair to provide information, networking, provided arthritis information at Ag Progress Days, provided general arthritis information to four clients at farm assessments, and shared information, websites, brochures and modification ideas with farmers and farm family with arthritis at the All American Dairy Show. OBJECTIVE 4- Added client story to website, contacts to the mailing list, upcoming events, attend USDA-NIFA impact statement training, spoke with PA Sec. Redding and OVR Director about services offered by AgrAbility, printed AgrAbility postcard, established an AgrAbility blog, established consistent social media presence with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, You Tube, the blog, Instagram, and the e-notes. mailed March Newsletter to 1,800 contacts.List includes all Extension offices, Granges, Centers for Independent Living, PA Ag Organizations, PA Farm Service Organizations, PA Elks Nurses, PA Ag Teachers, County Agencies on Aging. Featured a client story, arthritis information, assistive technology, upcoming events, and contact/social media information. Participated in 100th Pennsylvania Farm Show, Keystone Farm Show, and APD.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/14 to 08/31/15
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience for this project is farmers and farm families with disabilities or long-term health issues who wish to continue in or return to an agricultural occupation. The AgrAbility Project for Pennsylvanians is funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture-National Institute of Food Agriculture and is designed to help farmers and farm families with disabilities or long-term health issues who wish to continue in or return to production agriculture. The project is a partnership between Penn State Cooperative Extension, Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health, and Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation in collaboration with many other agriculture organizations throughout the state. We do on-site farm assessments to identify daily farm tasks or chores that are difficult because of the disability, identify modifications, equipment or assistive technology that will help a farmer complete such tasks or chores, make referrals to service providers, provide information regarding state and local resources and programs, and conduct or participate in educational program to foster farm safety and health. Changes/Problems:We found that we could not justify working with the EPIC students in engineering because the academic department responsible imposed a fee in excess of $1,000. We had previous used this program to give students a practical application of engineering principles and those students received some valuable experiences. In October 2014, our non-profit partner, PATF, chose to go in a different direction. Consequently, we had to identify another non-profit to take its place. We are lucky and happy with United Cerebral Palsy of Central Pennsylvania as our new non-profit. Paperwork for UCP was finalized in March 2015. Our project assistant and case manager left to take a position at TAMU in January 2015. This caused a disruption in our ability to serve the needs of farmers and farm families with a disability or injury. The task of advertising, interviewing, and hiring was not finalized until April 13. 2015. At this point, AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians has a great team going forward and we will make great strides and progress this next project year. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The project has offered one webinar to OVR and others involved farmers and farm families with a disability. Likewise, numerous presentations have been made at Farm Bureau, Pa Grange, Penn State Extension In-service meetings, and the Pa FFA convention. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The project has relied heavily on the project website and social media pagesto disseminate information. The project will institute counter to document the number of hits for the next project year. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The project will refine it methodology by keeping more accurate information on the number of participants, the areas of their concern, better follow the guidelines and trends of NAP. This project has had a personnel change and non-profit partner change. Work is underway to increase the knowledge and experience of these individuals so we can be more effective.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Obj 1.a AgrAbility worked with OT/PT to develop a poster/handout titled 'The Farmer, the Farm and Farming: More than Seeds and Manures. Assisting Farmers Tell and Own Their Story of Everyday Living'. This handout (45 copies) was distributed to OTs, OTAs, and students at the POTA meeting in the fall of 201. We also had an educational display to increase awareness of the project and to help OTs learn about rural farm modifications. Objective 1.b. AgrAbility exhibited at the PAAE Summer Institute. We continue to see more involvement by FFA Chapters and were recently named the recipient of the funds from an FFA fundraiser. Personal contact was made with FFA chapter to work directly with clients and FFA chapters were requesting information about the project. The activity related to the EPICS project has been deleted because of the increased cost. Our involvement with eXtension (FReSH) included being an integral part of the day-to-day management of the FReSH site and also integrating AgrAbility and rural rehabilitation information into the site. An activity this year related to FReSH was to add the new series of rural rehab factsheets published by the Ohio State University on the resource guide located on the eXtension site increasing the visibility. FReSH/AgrAbility was also involved in the Safety in Ag for Youth Project and participated in the National Steering Committee and the Farm and Ranch Youth Safety Symposium. OBJ 1.c. The Pa Rural Health Farm Worker Protection Safety Program Coordinator provides Worker Protection Standard services across the state and continues to provide AgrAbility information to growers and farm owners/managers when appropriate. We support the PA Office of Rural Health and distributed AgrAbility information at the 2014 East Coast Migrant Forum in Pittsburgh. AgrAbility participates in the main statewide agricultural events like the Keystone Farm Show and Ag Progress Days as well as other venues as possible. The tent activities include hands-on activities, pesticide applicator credits, health screenings, and educational resources. Outreach to farm equipment dealership is an important part of increasing awareness about AgrAbility. OBJ 1.d. The 2-3 webinars per year goal was not realistic this year because of staff skill sets and the increased number of webinars offered through AgriSafe, National AgrAbility, and other SRAPS. We promoted those webinars hosted by other organizations through our social media mechanisms including announcements and archived webinars when available. AgrAbility staff participated in several webinars this year related to professional development and expanding skills to better serve clients. Pa AgrAbility was an integral part of the statewide OVR training for the FARM Coordinators work most AgrAbility cases throughout the state. PATF, our non-profit partner at the time, presented training on funding resources for the FARM Coordinators. Pa AgrAbility staff conducted a presentation on farm assessments, recommendation reports, and OVR changes. In addition to working with OVR, we worked with the Vet Administration by meeting with staff in the Pittsburgh office to discuss AgrAbility services. OBJ 1.e An article, "Aging in Place", was included in the fall 2014 newsletter. In addition, contact information to learn more about accessible, affordable home modifications were included in the Q&A Farm Tips. PATF provided OVR counselors with funding information for home modifications. OBJ 2.a. The goal for this year was to post at least one article related to rural rehabilitation through eXtension. Pa and Va AgrAbility staff collaborated on co-authoring an article related to funding of assistive technology and was peer reviewed by additional AgrAbility staff. The article was published on FReSH/eXtension in April 2015. AgrAbility will explore partnership opportunities with additional CoPs within eXtension during the remaining of this project year. Webinars by other Ag safety and health organizations and AgrAbility project were promoted when appropriate through Learn as long as they were national and not state level webinars. OBJ 2.b. AgrAbility met with Veterans Administration in Pittsburgh to discuss AgrAbility services and will be attending PA CARES meetings to increase awareness of AgrAbility and to learn more about services available for veterans. Pa AgrAbility will be working more closely with the Penn State Military Youth Program to distribute information about AgrAbility services and to provide hands-on activities at upcoming events. AgrAbility staff will explore opportunities to partner with the Military Families CoP through eXtension in the remainder of project year-2. OBJ 2.c.AgrAbility displayed at the Women in Dairy Conference and distributed material women farmers, businesses, and Extension personnel. OBJ 2.d. The Arthritis Foundation in Pennsylvania is going through a restructure and it is unclear as to our future activities with them based on their objectives. During project year-2, PATF distributed "Back on the Farm, Back in the Saddle" booklets at the POTA conference. OBJ 2.e. The AgrAbility participates in the scheduled conference calls of the NAP Evaluation Committee and provided McGill pre-test information for Pa clients. AgrAbility completed the mailing and reporting of McGill questionnaires. We worked with the National AgrAbility Project to plan the AgrAbility - Pittsburgh Regional event in July 2014 that was attended by 21 people. Pa farmers received two scholarships to attend the 2015 NTW in Rochester, NY. OBJ 2.f. AgrAbility participates in monthly meetings with the College of Ag Sciences to plan Ag Progress Days. Along with PA Office of Rural Health, we coordinate the Rural Health and Safety tent at Ag Progress Days to offer various health screenings, hands-on displays, and educational information about health and safety related topics. OBJ 3.a. A toll free number for AgrAbility is provided through the non-profit partner and calls are forwarded to the case manager for follow-up. We continue to partner with the PA OVR to serve farmers with a disability across the state. This collaboration has been in effect since 1995. During this project year, OVR leadership and staff participated in the 2015 NTW in Rochester, NY to better understand AgrAbility and farm modifications. AgrAbility is committed to providing direct service to farmers and farm families with an injury or disability. This year showed a sizeable number of these individuals seeking assistance and referred for assistance from a number of sources. There were 39 farmers and farm families on our list although on-site visit were not made to all. Some were only seeking information and we provided that via handouts, pamphlets, and brochures. Our referral sources are state-level displays (3), other AgrAbility clients (4), client calls (7), websites (11), OVR (4), milk hauler (2) and other sources. OBJ 3.b. AgrAbility participated in the statewide Pa Rehabilitation Association Conference. AgrAbility met with the Veterans Administration office in Pittsburgh and also conducted training for the various VA offices. OBJ 3.c. An article on 'Aging in Place' was include in the fall 2014 newsletter and continues to be promoted through the AgrAbility social media mechanisms. OBJ 4 There were two Facebooks and Twitter (AgSafety4U and AgrAbilityPA) accounts used to promote AgrAbility and Ag safety resources during the past project year. Postings on Facebook and Twitter were on a regular basis. PSU College of Ag Sciences hosts the pages but the day-to-day changes are managed by AgrAbility. The new non-profit partner (UCP) has added Google+; added webinar playlist to AgrAbility YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and AgrAbility PA blog to the social media mechanisms for outreach. An updated banner display was developed this year for use at outreach events including the Keystone Farm Show and Ag Progress Days.
Publications
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Progress 09/01/13 to 08/31/14
Outputs
Target Audience: The target audience for this project is farmers and farm families with disabilities or long-term health issues who wish to continue in or return to an agricultural occupation. The AgrAbility Project for Pennsylvanians is funded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture-National Institute of Food Agriculture and is designed to help farmers and farm families with disabilities or long-term health issues who wish to continue in or return to production agriculture. The project is a partnership between Penn State Cooperative Extension, Pennsylvania Office of Rural Health, and Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation in collaboration with many other agriculture organizations throughout the state. We do on-site farm assessments to identify daily farm tasks or chores that are difficult because of the disability, identify modifications, equipment or assistive technology that will help a farmer complete such tasks or chores, make referrals to service providers, provide information regarding state and local resources and programs, and conduct or participate in educational program to foster farm safety and health. Changes/Problems: The major problems encountered during this port of year-1 was 1) the delay in moving funds through the University financial system and 2) changes imposed by government regulations. Although the project was funded in October 2013, the funds were not available until December 2013. This meant that no activities could start until the funds were available including signing the contract with our non-project partner, Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation. Consequently, project activities did not start until January 2014. The second problem occurred in hiring personnel to work with the project. Due to federal affirmative action requirements, all positions must be advertised for one week or more, applications obtained, qualification screening of applicants, interviews conducted, selection of the best fit applicant, offer of employment, and acceptance by the applicant. Then the selected hire had to be screened for legal problems. The entire process was time consuming even though the selected person was a minority and previously employed by this institution. Consequently, the project employee could not start work until the third week of January 2014. These problems are described because the project has not had sufficient time to accomplish what a 12-month project has. The only change that is needed is dropping the project funded toll-free telephone number because the majority of our clients have cell or mobile phones and money is saved using these devices. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? The project has offered one webinar to OVR and others involved farmers and farm families with a disability. Likewise, numerous presentations have been made at Farm Bureau, Pa Grange, Penn State Extension In-service meetings, and the Pa FFA convention. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? The project has relied heavily on the project website to disseminate information. The project will institute counter to document the number of hits for the next project year. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? The project will refine it methodology by keeping more accurate information on the number of participants, the areas of their concern, better following ofthe guidelines and trends of NAP.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Pennsylvania Objective 1.b. Made presentations about FReSH accepted for the National eXtension Conference in March 2014; at Greek Organizations about AgrAbility and plans for Penny War; about AgrAbility at York FFA and Home Depot collaboration; submitted online request for EPIC project proposal for client; collaborated Albion FFA Chapter, concerning donation to Sigma Alpha Sorority Penny War Project; planned Ag safety and health exhibit at the Penn State Extension in service; accepted Penny War Award of $1,100 for an AgrAbility client; participated in the Penn State Extension Conference and interviewed Penny War student organizer for stories to be used on web site, newsletters and press release. Pennsylvania Objective 1.c. Contacted clients, PORH, POTA PIAT, and OVR to solicit their participation at the “Arthritis and Agriculture Workshop”, March 6th in Pittsburgh, PA; planned phases for Ag Progress Days for Rural Health tent; visited Amish community for opportunities to work with Amish communities; planned for Ag Safety & Health exhibit at Keystone days; and distributed AgrAbility information to Zeisloft Farm Equipment and Nicholas Farm Equipment (Bloomsburg). Pennsylvania Objective 1.d. Made presentation preparation for PV Young Farmer meeting (30 people); and developed initial newsletter for internal review by AgrAbility team. Pennsylvania Objective 1.e Collaborated with JA for potential candidate to share story on adaptive sports in newsletter. Pennsylvania Objective 2.a. Published peer-reviewed article about production agriculture and stress on eXtension; coordinated and participated in FReSH Leadership meeting in Pittsburgh; attended and exhibited at National eXtension Conference in Sacramento, CA; attended ISASH conference in Omaha. Pennsylvania Objective 2.b. Attended the facilitating, planning, improvement, and assessment projects and teams workshop germane to working with the VA, OVR, PIAT and PORH; attended meeting with Veteran Outreach Coordinator, Ted Timmerman and VA Centre County (March 21) to identify and assist VA Farmers, State College VA, Erie VA and Pittsburgh VA Pennsylvania Objective 2.d. Corresponded with PA arthritis event; attended the Arthritis and “Agriculture Workshop” in Pittsburgh, PA; solicit client to share story for Pennsylvania AgrAbility newsletter, participated in Prevention and Management Arthritis webinar; attended and presented at the “Arthritis and Agriculture Workshop” in Pittsburgh; shared arthritis material from AgrAbility with clients; included story on Arthritis and farming in newsletter; and establish link to Arthritis Foundation for AgrAbility for Pennsylvanians website. Pennsylvania Objective 2.e. Participated in National AgrAbility Evaluation Standing Committee conference call; began planning for the Goodwill Regional AgrAbility event to be held either in Pittsburgh; participated in Mid-Atlantic ‘s Vision Impairment webinar; participated in National AgrAbility Evaluation Standing Committee conference call; planned activities for Advisory Group at Penn State; prepared for NAP National Training workshop session March 31-April 4 in Lexington KY; developed reporting log for clients and McGill study and shared files; prepared McGill pre-surveys for clients; attended the National Training Workshop, Lexington, KY; coordinated and participated in the AgrAbility Advisory Committee meeting; participated in conference call on May 29th regarding Pittsburg event planned for August 2014; and joined community interest group of the Arthritis Foundation. Pennsylvania Objective2.f Attended APD planning team meeting with PORH; help organize the vision and blood pressure screenings are tentatively scheduled; participated in planning meeting for APD Rural Health tent attended College of Ag Sciences APD meeting; solicited Arthritis Foundation to participate in Ag Progress Days; worked with Department of Health concerning tetanus shots; confirmed that APD would provide funds to print new tent banner and erect the banner on the tent; and continued APD planning. Pennsylvania Objective 3.a. Added 8 new clients (6 referred to OVR, 1 referral from OVR, and 1 addendum completed; organized community service opportunity for students to visit client’s farm operation in Centre County; visited clients Fayette County, York County and Westmoreland County; and updated clients' for JS, KB, and AR added. Pennsylvania Objective 3.b. Met with Ted Timmerman (Veteran Outreach) on March 19; contacted VA Employment Representative and VA Centre County; discussed opportunities to assist and interact with VA Farmers, distributed AgrAbility material to VA counselors; spoke with OVR and forwarded new FAQ sheets for distribution requested OVR assistance on verifying mailing list database to OVR offices statewide; offered support for OVR’s upcoming in-house AgrAbility training by providing OVR with brochures and other outreach materials; and offered to make AgrAbility representative available for presentation to assist OVR. Pennsylvania Objective 3.c. Collaborated with Amy Wolf on “Arthritis and Agriculture Workshop”; staffed exhibit and provided materials at “Arthritis and Agriculture Workshop”; shared information packet with client; and assisted client (JA) with training/education course in holistic management. Pennsylvania Objective 4 Added regular Facebook postings on AgSafety4U and 5x/week postings on Twitter; discussed questions concerning website through PSU; help organized website changes in progress; worked on Facebook and Tweets on the AgrAbility4PA accounts; updated Facebook page and provided postings; monitored and maintained Twitter page; developed new newsletter template based on MS Publisher; coordinated with AgrAbility staff to create story outlines for first newsletter; obtained NAP Marketing Plan for use a s a template Marketing Plan; developed FAQ sheet one-pager for distribution at events; prepared story on AgrAbility and social media for Penn State newsletter; placed notice on old Facebook page for people to join the new page; maintained and updated Facebook and Twitter pages; reviewed exiting displays at Advisory Group meeting; contacted PA Grange and forwarded FAQ; worked to get AgrAbility story in Grange newsletter; contacted PA Dept. of Ag Bureau of Marketing and Policy forwarded FAQ and requested meeting with Bureau Director Leila Reichert; contacted PA Farm Bureau; provided newsletter drafts to project team; met to discuss story selection and layout and graphics; and updated content on AgrAbility website.
Publications
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