Happy 76th birthday FCE! A visit to the web site of National Association for Family and Community Education shows such a positive organization; one that cares about families and communities. The organization has gone through several name changes in its long history; some of you remember the Home Demonstration Units and Extension Homemaker Units of the past. Through all of this the mission to strengthen individuals, families and communities through continuing education, developing leadership and community action has remained the same.
We have six active FCE units who meet monthly in Barton County. Whenever I visit the groups I am always amazed at their passion for community service.  From helping host the snack at Kids’ Ag Day, assisting with bloodmobiles, or donating time and food for the local food banks, our units are determined to change their communities for the better.  As an advisor to the countywide FCE program, I encourage unit members to volunteer and lead by example.
As we celebrate Family and Community Education week I hope you will join me in saying “Thank You” to all of the Barton County FCE members.  Many have been members for well over 50 years, yet the projects and programs they share are relevant to issues faced by today’s families.
FCE units meet monthly from September through May.  Anyone who would like to learn more about joining a FCE, group, should give me a call.  If you are new to town joining an FCE unit is a great way to meet people. Perhaps you are newly retired and want to give back to your community, or you are a young mother who wants to enrich your own family.  Whatever your age or stage in life, consider joining FCE this fall!
Donna Krug is the family and consumer science agent with Barton County Extension. She may be reached at (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu