Friends of Extension & 4-H Douglas / Sarpy County Foundation

05/09/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award Recipient Ron Giller for Dedicated Extension Board Service.

Ron has been a steadfast and supportive presence on the board, serving as an officer and consistently showing up to events while contributing wherever needed. He meets annually with county commissioners and state senators, advocating for Extension and its programs. His positive attitude, reliability, and willingness to go above and beyond have made a lasting impact. We thank Ron for his exceptional service and dedication; he will be very missed.

05/08/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award winner Jayden Prososki, Exemplary 4-H Ambassador.

Jayden consistently goes above and beyond as a 4-H Youth Ambassador, representing both herself and the program with positivity, dedication, and professionalism. She actively participates in events, engages with the community, and models the 4-H values of Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, making a meaningful impact on her peers and the broader 4-H community.

05/07/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award Winner, Colin Bernard for your Leadership in Extension Board Service!

Colin has served as an effective and influential board leader, serving as president for the majority of his six-year term. He runs meetings in a purposeful and productive manner, has built meaningful connections with county commissioners and community partners, and has served as an enthusiastic advocate for Extension. We thank Colin for his outstanding service, guidance, and dedication, he will be greatly missed.

05/06/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award recipient Randy Porter for Excellence in Board Advocacy & Service!

Randy Porter served on the Douglas-Sarpy County Extension Board for six years and currently serves as an Engagement Zone 9 Director on the Nebraska Association of County Extension Boards (NACEB). Randy has been a constant and consistent support of Extension and attends local and statewide events to show support and advocate. Randy has been appointed to serve as NACEB President in 2027, where he will help lead advocacy efforts with Nebraska State Senators and other key stakeholders, championing Extension’s impact, strengthening partnerships, and advancing support for programs across the state. He is also a valued member of the NACEB leadership group that has earned regular meetings with and the respect of University of Nebraska President Dr. Gold, helping ensure Extension has a seat at the table and remains relevant across the NU system and the state. The time Randy volunteers to serve in these roles is very valued and appreciated.

05/06/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award Winner Nancy Mattea, recipient of the Hands-On Learning Volunteer Award.

Nancy Mattea is a dedicated 4-H volunteer who inspires youth through hands-on textiles and sewing education. She engages young people with patience, creativity, and encouragement, helping them build practical skills while fostering confidence, and problem-solving. Her commitment to youth development has a meaningful impact on the next generation of makers and leaders.

05/05/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award Winner Elizabeth Mulkerrin, Outstanding School District Partner!

Through Elizabeth Mulkerrin’s leadership and guidance, the 4-H embryology program was successfully launched and sustained in all OPS 6th-grade classrooms, reaching students we had not engaged before. Her support ensures engaging, hands-on science experiences in every classroom, fostering curiosity, learning, and a love of STEM across the district.

05/04/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award winner Michelle Carlson, recipient of the Community Partner Impact Award.

Michelle Carlson of the Omaha Public Library is a vital partner in supporting Extension programming. Through her coordination, promotion, and hands-on support, she ensures programs like the 4-H Building Better Babysitters clinics and horticulture classes led by Master Gardener volunteers run smoothly and reach a wide audience. Her efforts make it easier for educators to teach and create meaningful learning experiences, fostering a strong and impactful partnership that benefits the entire community.

05/02/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award winner Lora Cooper, Essential Pregnancy Services (EPS), winner of the Community Partner Impact Award

Lora Cooper is a positive and engaged community partner who helps enroll clients in EFNEP nutrition classes and ensures a welcoming environment for our sessions at EPS. Her support with class registration has improved participant retention, helping clients meet EFNEP’s six-class requirement. Since 2023, her partnership has strengthened our grant outcomes while making a meaningful impact on women and couples experiencing unplanned or under-supported pregnancies.

04/30/2026

Congratulations, Extension Impact Award Winner, Sarah Pistillo, Environmental Inspector, Douglas County Health Department - Recipient of the Business Collaboration (“Better Together”) Award

Sarah Pistillo serves as a Food Safety Instructor with the Douglas County Health Department, where she co-teaches ServSafe and provides essential, required food safety training for food service managers across Douglas and Sarpy Counties. Sarah has worked with the Extension Office for several years. Her ability to reach our audience and answer their questions while developing trust is amazing. Both the health dept and the Extension office want our clients to be successful in their businesses, and this collaboration is a strong commitment to that!

04/30/2026

Don't forget to submit your proposal for the 2026 Spring Grant Cycle by midnight tonight.

The Foundation invites grant proposals from Douglas and Sarpy County Extension and 4-H Staff (both paid and volunteer) and program participants, as well as from third parties who are directly...