Good nutrition, physical activity, and feeling great are interconnected. This month, we're focusing on feeling your best with nutritious, delicious, and budget-friendly food choices. Eating five servings of fruits and vegetables daily provides the right fuel for your body to function optimally. To make this easier, prepare 'ready to go' snacks in advance, such as cut-up carrots, berries, and apples, stored in individual containers. Adding fruit to water can also keep you hydrated and provide a refreshing treat.


Our Family and Consumer Education staff organizes engaging workshops covering parenting, financial literacy, and wellness. We aim to keep the community informed about exciting programs and events. We offer online and in-person support groups like RAPP (Relatives As Parents Program), Parenting communication and education weekly PASE (Parent and Support Education) classes for improved communication skills, and financial literacy workshops for ages 11 to senior citizens. These workshops cover basic financial concepts, budgeting, saving, spending, credit, and advanced topics like interest, credit scores, loans, and financial scams. Additionally, we provide wellness education on consumable fish in the Hudson River Fish Advisory.


*A "Kinship Family" are grandparents and other (kinship) relatives who have taken on the responsibility of surrogate parenting because the parents are unable or unavailable to parent their children. 

Talking RAPP:

2023 Promotion


Some of the adult participants chatted about why they are involved in Relatives As Parents Program (RAPP) and shared their experiences, thoughts and advice for other kinship families* within Dutchess County that are seeking support and resources for the unique challenges their families may be facing.


Click the image to watch the full video!

Click the images below for complete information!

FCE Needs Your Support Today!


Every month, staff are excited to share with you the impactful work being done by the Family and Consumer Education Program of CCEDC. At the heart of our mission is the commitment to enhance the well-being of families through strength-based initiatives, education, and advocacy for evidence-based practices. We firmly believe that by empowering families, we contribute to the foundation of a healthier and more prosperous society within Dutchess County and beyond.


However, as many of you may know, grant funding sources are not always guaranteed to be renewed, and securing stable funding is an ongoing challenge. While we continue to diligently search for new funding opportunities, we recognize the vital role that donations and sponsorships play in sustaining and expanding our programing.  We are in need of steady funding into the Fall in order to continue our RAPP program. The situation is critical in maintaining and growing our efforts. Therefore, we call upon our dedicated supporters, like you, to help us with your generous contributions.


One of our primary focuses is providing support for relative caregivers who play a crucial role in nurturing children within their extended families; "kinship families". Through monthly meetings and specialized parenting workshops, the Relatives As Parents Program (RAPP) staff offer guidance on positive discipline and effective caregiving techniques. These programs create a nurturing environment that allows children to flourish and thrive within their family units. We have provided this service through our RAPP program to Dutchess County families for over 15 years.


Our commitment to family education extends to various workshops covering crucial topics such as parenting/communication, financial literacy, and wellness. We understand the importance of equipping families with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of modern life successfully. By providing relevant and engaging workshops, we empower families to make informed decisions that positively impact their lives.


Your support and generosity are the backbone of the Family and Consumer Education Program at CCEDC. By donating today, you play a pivotal role in enhancing the well-being of families in Dutchess County and contributing to the foundation of a healthier and more prosperous society.


Your contributions (donations and sponsorships) enable us to provide vital resources, strength-based initiatives, and evidence-based education that empower families to thrive in today's world. From supporting relative caregivers in their nurturing roles to offering workshops on parenting, financial literacy, and wellness, your donations directly impact the lives of countless individuals. Your partnership allows us to create a stronger, more resilient community where families can flourish.


Together, let us continue making a lasting and positive difference in the lives of families, youth, and adults in our beloved community. Please donate today and be part of our transformative journey. Click the donate button below and select "Family & Consumer Education" to direct your gift.

DONATE TO FCE

Want to learn about greater giving or sponsorship? Contact Jess: (845) 677-8223, x137

Toddler swimming safety tips! 

We all know children love the water however, it can be unsafe if they are not supervised or even have the proper swimming gear on.

Click here to read more!

Grilling Safety 101:


Click here for a list of the 10 most important grilling safety tips so you can enjoy your grill safely this summer. Follow these outdoor grilling safety tips the next time you break out the grill.



Click here for the entire DC Office for the Aging Senior Summer Picnic schedule and complete info!

The Family and Consumer Education (FCE) program strives to ensure that families facing challenges in parenting, family finances, and wellness and nutrition find the resources and education they need to improve their lives.

FCE creates connections for residents with the latest, evidence-based research and practical information that can be directly applied to their day-to-day lives.

We work to strengthen individual knowledge and skills while providing community level and County wide education.

 

Cornell Cooperative Extension is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. This program is partially funded by the County of Dutchess, Dutchess County office for the Aging, and New York State Office of Children and Family Services. Please contact the Cornell Cooperative Extension office if you have any special needs.

Wishes would come true with you! FCE needs ongoing supplies for our parenting programs. Click here to see how you can enhance our programming today!


Need to reach a member of the team?

Jessica M Canale- Program Leader

Maureen Rodriguez Callamari

Amber Dulavey

Heather L. Ohlson


Click here for previous FCE Update: Newsletters!


Thanks for your support and collaboration! 

Are you a collaborative program or agency that needs information shared to the FCE community? Email Heather!