Learning doesn't stop after graduation—and neither does Ohio State University Extension. Through Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS), Columbiana County residents have access to practical, research-based programs that help individuals and families build the skills they need to live healthier, more confident lives.
Think of Family and Consumer Sciences Extension as a "life skills gym." Just as you go to a gym to strengthen your physical muscles, FCS programs help strengthen your financial, cooking, parenting, and wellness skills. Whether you're learning how to prepare nutritious meals on a budget, planning for your financial future, improving your health, or earning a food safety certification, Extension provides education that can make a lasting impact.
Programs are available throughout the year and can be customized to meet the needs of schools, businesses, civic organizations, churches, libraries, healthcare organizations, senior centers, and community groups.
Some of the educational opportunities available include:
- Dining with Diabetes – Designed for everyone, including individuals living with diabetes, those at risk, caregivers, and anyone interested in making healthier food choices. Participants learn practical strategies for meal planning, nutrition, food preparation, and healthy living that can benefit the entire family.
- Healthy Living Programs – Discover research-based information on nutrition, physical activity, chronic disease prevention, food preservation, stress management, mental wellness, healthy aging, and more. Programs are tailored to the interests and needs of your group.
- Tai Chi for Health – Improve balance, flexibility, strength, and overall well-being through gentle movement. Tai Chi classes are especially popular with older adults but can benefit participants of all ages looking to improve mobility and reduce stress.
- Real Money. Real World. – This interactive financial literacy program helps middle and high school students experience real-world budgeting decisions while exploring future careers and financial responsibilities. Extension also offers age-appropriate financial education activities for younger elementary students to begin building strong money habits early.
- Money 101 – Whether you're just starting out, planning for major life events, or looking to strengthen your financial knowledge, Money 101 provides practical education on budgeting, saving, credit, debt management, and making informed financial decisions.
- ServSafe® Ohio Food Protection Manager Certification – Food safety matters. This nationally recognized training is ideal for restaurant professionals, school nutrition staff, churches, civic organizations, healthcare facilities, and anyone responsible for preparing or serving food. Participants gain the knowledge needed to safely manage food service operations while meeting Ohio certification requirements.
Imagine a high school student learning how to budget their first paycheck, a family discovering simple ways to prepare healthy meals together, a senior improving balance through Tai Chi, or a local restaurant manager earning food safety certification. These are just a few examples of how Family and Consumer Sciences programming helps strengthen individuals, families, workplaces, and communities.
Every program is grounded in research from The Ohio State University and can be adapted to fit your audience, schedule, and goals. Whether you're looking for a one-time presentation, a multi-session workshop, or a series tailored to your organization, Extension educators are ready to partner with you.
If your organization is interested in bringing Family and Consumer Sciences programming to your community, contact Heidi Buck, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, at buck.331@osu.edu or 330-870-1173. Heidi can help you explore available topics, customize a program for your audience, and discuss scheduling and pricing options.
Together, we can build healthier people, stronger families, and more vibrant communities—one life skill at a time.