COLLEGE STATION - The Texas Cancer Council was one of seven organizations that received a Partnership Award from the Texas Agricultural Extension Service at the State Extension Conference here recently.
The award recognized collaborations with Extension that have had far-reaching, positive impacts on Texans’ quality of life.
The Texas Cancer Council has provided funding for educational programs focusing on cancer prevention. Over the past five years, Extension programs in cancer prevention have reached more than 600,000 Texans, said Teresa Smith, Extension associate in health education.
“The Partnership Award is a significant recognition because it signifies the important role of other agencies and organizations as we work together to address the needs of the people,” said Dr. Edward A. Hiler, Texas A&M University vice chancellor of agriculture and life sciences and Extension Service director. “In a nutshell, these folks help us do our jobs better.”
Last year alone, the partnership with the cancer council helped county Extension agents present health-related information to more than 1,200 community groups statewide. Also, additional volunteers have been trained to support Extension Wellness programs that focus on health screenings, proper nutrition and health risks associated with tobacco use.
County agents, like Marilyn Sebesta in Wharton County, feel rewarded to learn that people have made positive life choices as a result of these programs. Sebesta reported that two of her clients quit smoking because they learned of the increased cancer risks.
“The agencies and organizations we are recognizing with the Partnership Award are key players in supporting our programs in outreach education,” said Dr. Chester P. Fehlis, deputy director of the Extension Service. “Working together, we are able to capitalize on the synergy that benefits both the organizations involved and the customers we serve.”
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