What We Do

Purdue Extension Health and Human Sciences provides education to individuals and communities in each of Indiana’s diverse counties. We bring university information to the local level – both in person and online – to help people strengthen relationships, eat smart, improve health, and achieve financial wellness.

Contact Us

Emily Christ
HHS Educator - Elkhart County
17746 County Road 34 Ste E
Goshen, IN 46528
ewitters@purdue.edu
574-533-0554

Upcoming programs

View our upcoming programs for May/June/July 2025 here.

people using cell phones

Unplugged: Understanding Social Media Addiction

Learn to recognize, understand, and address social media addiction in today’s digital age. This program offers insights, strategies, and support to empower individuals to regain control over their digital habits, prioritize mental well-being, and foster healthier relationships with technology. Offered Wednesday, May 7th at 5:00pm at the Goshen Public Library (601 S. 5th St., Goshen). To register, call Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu . Duration: 1 hour.

nurse holding calendar, medication, and sanitary napkin

Navigating Women's Health

Explore the menstrual cycle and gain a deeper understanding of its phases and hormonal changes. Learn about the overall impact on physical and emotional health, common misconceptions, symptoms, and ways to support menstrual health through nutrition, lifestyle, and self-care practices. Whether you’re looking to better understand your own cycle or support others, this program will provide valuable insights and practical takeaways! Offered Thursday, May 8th at 3:00pm at the Elkhart County Family Resource Center (612 E. Bristol St., Elkhart). To register, call Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu . Duration:1 hour long.

diabetes items

Diabetes 101

Learn fundamental information about diabetes, its management, and practical skills for managing diabetes effectively. This program is tailored for individuals diagnosed with diabetes, as well as their caregivers and loved ones. Offered Thursday, May 22nd at 5:00pm at the Elkhart Public Library - Pierre Moran Branch (2400 Benham Ave., Elkhart). To register, call Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu . Duration: 1 hour.

 

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Purdue University prohibits discrimination against any member of the University community on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, or status as a veteran. If you are in need of accommodations to attend a program, please contact Emily Christ at 574-533-0554 or ewitters@purdue.edu at least two weeks prior to the program. For special dietary needs, contact Emily Christ at 574-533-0554 or ewitters@purdue.edu at least two weeks prior to the program. If you need an interpreter or translator, please contact Emily Christ at 574-533-0554 or ewitters@purdue.edu at least three weeks prior to the program.

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OPEN CLASS HOME & FAMILY ARTS
Download booklet, see contest rules, and view contest results.
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FOOD SAFETY & PRESERVATION
View and download various food safety and preservation publications.
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ELKHART CO. EXTENSION HOMEMAKERS
View information on programs/classes, newsletters, forms, etc.

I'm looking forward to getting my air fryer into use now. "Cooking with an Air Fryer" was a very helpful and useful program. Emily was well spoken, clear, and precise. She has very nice programs!

- Kris, New Paris

My wife and I just finished the "Be Heart Smart" series. It really opened my eyes to all of the foods that are affecting not only my heart but also my general health.

- Dave, Goshen

Health & Human Sciences Columns

People looking at their cellphone

Social Media Addiction

Social media addiction, characterized by excessive and compulsive use of social media platforms, has become a prevalent issue in today's...

Supplements and whole foods

Supplements Versus the Real Thing

In an age where health-conscious individuals are constantly seeking ways to optimize their well-being, the debate between supplements and whole...

Sad snowman outside with a black hat

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, many people find themselves grappling with a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder...

Thanksgiving classic  dinner table with a turkey as a main dish

Turkey Talk

With the holiday season ramping up, we begin the intense cooking process to create lavish meals for our loved ones. This takes patience, time, and...

Frozen vegetables

Freezing Vegetables

Vegetables can add a significant amount of nutrients and vitamins to our diet. Incorporating vegetables in every meal can be a great way to assure...

Food cooking on grill

Grilling Tips and Tricks

As the weather gets warmer, we find ourselves getting outside more whether it’s to exercise, cook, or just relax. A popular summertime...

Earth with hands of different colors

How Diversity is Knowledge

There are many ways to utilize the power of diversity. It starts with a different lens and scope to how diversity is experienced amongst all...

food thermometer in piece of steak

Food Safety Techniques

When it comes to food safety, you may feel like certain things are no brainers, but there are many things you may not know about keeping yourself...

a bunch of blueberries

Hello Blueberries

This is the time of the year we begin to see blueberries pop up at our favorite local markets. During the summer, there is nothing quite like a big...

Bills of money with calculator and tablet of paper

Tips to Save

Americans have many ways they can save money these days. Several attributes go into saving money including credit, debt, entertainment, family and...

Mix of food groups

MyPlate Management

Recently I learned that many people don’t know much about MyPlate and where it originated. Many of us know the food pyramid which was...

Two people exercising with laptop

Virtual Fitness

Sometimes fitting exercise into our busy schedules can be difficult. For some it may come easy and for others it may be more difficult to get to a...

array of plates of egg foods

Eggtastic (What To Do With Your Eggs)

Eggs can be beneficial for our diet in many different ways. They are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals and are high in protein along with...

array of breakfast items

How to Build a Balanced Breakfast

Making healthier choices can be difficult, overwhelming, or even frustrating. However, it doesn’t have to be. If we find something we like...

food in freezer

Food Preservation Safety

The invention of the freezer is incredibly helpful when it comes to protecting foods and preserving them for long periods of time. It’s...

cutting meat and vegetables on cutting board

Meat Managing

Have you ever wondered if you are handling meat properly? Some meats should be kept separate from other products to avoid cross-contamination and...

fruits and vegetables

Eat the Rainbow

It is tremendously important for individuals of all ages to maintain a nutritious diet. Make sure to consume all five food groups including dairy,...

Swimming Safety

Be Your Own Lifeguard

Swimming is a popular activity during the summer months. With the warm weather, children and adults are doing anything to cool off. Knowing the...