Annually, Family and Consumer Sciences Agents and staff see increased interest from clients in health-behavior choices around the new year.  This year, in an effort to reach both current and new clientele with timely and factual information, FCS Extension rolled out a new program just in time for January 2021- Big Blue Goals.  Participants chose between an online platform that could be operated from a smartphone, computer, or tablet, or traditional paper format. Participants received daily or weekly information about a variety of topics that they selected: preparing meals at home, increasing physical activity, consuming fruits and vegetables, making sound financial decisions, living well, and increased relationship skills.  Participants recorded their efforts made in those areas for the 10-week program and were rewarded with incentive items for their continued participation.   

Statewide, a total of 1,497 individuals participated in Big Blue Goals, and as a group made an impressive amount of wise and healthy choices! 

664 individuals participated in the Physical Activity challenge and had a combined total of 337,124 minutes of physical activity. Evidence shows that individuals who engage in physical activity have improved physical and mental health outcomes.  

682 individuals participated in the Meals at Home challenge and consumed a combined total of 29,580 meals at home during the 10 weeks. Evidence shows that individuals who consume meals at home consume overall healthier foods and more appropriate portions.  

500 individuals participated in the Fruits and Vegetables Challenge and consumed a combined total of 47,852 servings of fruit and vegetables during the 10-week challenge.  Evidence shows that eating 4-6 servings of fruit and vegetables each day improves health outcomes. 

Additionally, this program connected all participants to their local county Extension offices, through incentive items that participants earned, which gave county FCS Agents many new contacts in different demographics than they may have reached previously with traditional programming.   During a time that could have been defined by individuals insulating themselves and withdrawing from their community, FCS Extension provided a safe and effective program to engage clients in continuing to strive to make healthy choices- despite the challenges of the times.  

As one client reported, “I am so grateful for this program.  It kept me connected and on track to make healthy changes.  This year has been hard and I have coped in unhealthy ways.  Thank you for this program!”