Extension

Improving health and well-being

MU Extension

Using research-based education and proven strategies, MU Extension faculty in the College of Health Sciences work in partnership with communities to improve conditions that help Missourians thrive where they live, learn and work. Programs help individuals and families, reaching Missourians of all ages in every county and the city of St. Louis.

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Dedicated to helping Missourians improve their lives

Our extension impact

1,300+

program participants

$1.3 million+

annual reduction in health care costs

Health improvement programs

MU Extension professionals lead classes across the state to help Missourians improve their health management, physical fitness and general well-being. As a result, many Missourians lead safer, healthier lives with fewer medical care costs.
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Stay Strong, Stay Healthy

This eight-week exercise program is designed to enable participants to live independently longer as they age. The course, held twice weekly for an hour each session, implements the latest research to improve fitness, flexibility and balance.

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Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention

The Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention program is designed to improve multiple aspects of health through slow, gentle movements that can be practiced almost anywhere. Participants learn warmup exercises, six basic and six advanced moves, and a cooldown during 16 one-hour classes.

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Chronic Disease Self-Management

This 6-week long, evidence-based class for individuals with chronic health conditions and their caregivers addresses an array of health issues and self-management behaviors. Participants make weekly action plans, share experiences and help each other solve problems they encounter in creating and carrying out their self-management programs.

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A Matter of Balance

Falling is the No. 1 cause of injury and death from injury among older adults. This class empowers adults 60 years old and up to limit risk factors for falling and to find strength and balance exercises to reduce their chances of falling,

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Mental Health First Aid

This course gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use challenge and help connect them to the appropriate care. Due to grant funding, MHFA training is currently FREE.

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The Missouri Council for Activity and Nutrition (MOCAN)

This council of professionals from diverse backgrounds across the state comes together to implement and support policy, system and environmental changes that will improve Missourians’ health and quality of life.

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Food Systems and Food Security

A resource for Missourians on how their food is produced, harvested, processed, distributed, marketed and accessed as part of a food system.

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Family Nutrition Education Program (FNEP)

MU Extension provides research-based nutrition education to Missouri’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, as well as others who are eligible, to help them make behavior changes to achieve lifelong health and fitness.

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Building Strong Families

This comprehensive and dynamic program empowers individuals and families with the tools, resources and support they need to cultivate strong, resilient and harmonious family units using evidence-based practices.

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Heroes to Hives of Missouri

Heroes to Hives seeks to address the financial and personal wellness of veterans through free professional training and community development centered around beekeeping.

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Wits Workout

Did you know that social connectedness and intellectual engagement are two lifestyle factors that contribute to your brain’s health? In this Wits Workout group, participants engage in various interactive puzzles and games and learn what they can do in their daily lives to keep their brains healthy.

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Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI)

This program provides authentic police training from experts in every criminal justice field. They share their knowledge with participants and challenge them, appropriately preparing them for the tough job ahead.

Research and internship opportunities

Students: Get involved

Students interested in internship and research opportunities should contact Kaylee Wyckwood, who will help coordinate opportunities according to the student’s interests and future plans.

Contact Kaylee Wyckwood