Food and Nutrition Education in Communities (FNEC) in Cornell University’s Division of Nutritional Sciences provides program leadership, develops curricula and staff training, and conducts research to improve nutrition and prevent obesity, with a focus on limited-resource populations.
FNEC is committed to providing effective nutrition education programs to the target audience, delivered by staff who are trained in the delivery of high-quality, research and evidence-based curricula. FNEC provides oversight for the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) and training and professional development for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program –Education (SNAP-Ed) delivered through Cornell Cooperative Extension associations across New York State.
Why FNEC Programming Works
Positive learning experiences
Participants are respected for the knowledge they bring to sessions. The strengths and experiences of participants enrich the learning environment. Participants learn from their educators, but also develop knowledge and skills by interacting with each other.
Motivation. Rapport. Practical skills. All these strengths are developed through interactive sessions that are less about lecture and more about hands-on learning. Through creative food experiences, participants learn about affordable, accessible meal choices. A minimum of six sessions before graduation ensures that healthful habits become integrated as lifestyle changes.
FNEC educators are extensively trained in up-to-date nutrition information, and how to present this information in a way that is meaningful to participants. Each session is delivered using a consistent, research-based framework that actively engages participants in the learning process. Ongoing professional development ensures that staff stay updated on important programmatic topics.