A crowd of Livingston County University of Missouri Extension supporters gathered last night (Thursday) at United Methodist Church during the annual meeting of the Extension Council.

After opening remarks by Diane Kerns, chair of the University of Missouri Extension Livingston County, and an invocation by 1st ward councilman Sid Cornell, the crowd enjoyed a catered dinner by Alicia Earley.

Following dinner, Kerns introduced Richard Smith, 4-H LIFE Program associate, who gave a brief presentation on the new program at the Missouri Department of Corrections.

 “It’s a great opportunity,” Smith said. He stated that although he was hired in July of last year, the program began in September at the Chillicothe Department of Corrections.

The LIFE program, Living Interactive Family Education, addresses the needs of children of incarcerated parents or family members. The program, Smith stated, is based on belonging, independence, mastery and generosity.

Smith also stated that the Missouri Extension 4-H LIFE worker and volunteers have provided over 1,600 hours of research based education and over 2,000 enhanced in-person parent/child visits. “It’s those types of interactions that are best for the children,” Smith said.

He stated that the criteria for offenders to participate in the program included being violation free for 90 days, could not have sexual offense charges, need to be a regular family member, and they must be active by participating in parenting classes and planning meetings.

The three components Smith listed of the LIFE program included: parenting classes, planning and leadership, and 4-H family club meetings, which gives participants an opportunity to take what they’ve learned and implement it.

The 4-H family club meetings are much like a regular 4-H meeting with an agenda, business meeting and educational activities. Activities include making healthy food choices, cake decorating, safety and gardening.

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