Health & Human Sciences
What We Do
Purdue Extension Health and Human Sciences (HHS Extension) delivers educational programs, applied research and resources to our community, with a focus on issues related to food, family, money and health. HHS Extension 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
Shannon Shepherd
HHS Educator - Kosciusko County
202 West Main Street
Warsaw, In 46580
574.372.2340
Educational Programs
Mark your calendars! Below you’ll find the dates, times, and brief descriptions of the lessons planned for the upcoming program year. Be sure to check back here for any updates or changes, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook to stay connected and informed!
All programs will be held at the Home & Family Arts Building at the Kosciusko County Fairgrounds (1400 E Smith St, Warsaw, Indiana), unless otherwise noted. Please register by calling the Purdue Extension office at 574.372.2340.
Mediterranean Diet
Discover the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet! This multi-session program explores how this way of eating supports heart health, weight management, and longevity. Enjoy access to delicious, nutritious recipes.
- Session 3 - August 27, 2025 - 12:00 PM
- Register by August 20, 2025
- Session 4 & 5 - September 24, 2025 - 11:00 AM
- Register by September 17, 2025
- Please note this double lesson will start at 11:00 AM
Preparing for Emergencies
This program helps individuals and families plan ahead for unexpected situations like natural disasters, power outages, or medical emergencies. Participants will learn practical steps for creating emergency kits, developing communication plans, and staying safe and informed before, during, and after a crisis.
- November 19, 2025 - 12:00 PM
- Register by November 12, 2025
Empower Me to be Clutter Free
Clutter can hinder our daily lives—both physically and mentally. Empower Me to Be Clutter Free is an educational program designed to help individuals take control of their space by offering practical strategies to reduce clutter, overcome emotional roadblocks, manage paper piles, and create systems to maintain order at home or in the office. Whether you're just getting started or looking for long-term solutions, this program offers guidance to help you live with more clarity and less chaos.
- January 28, 2026 - 12:00 PM
- Register by January 22, 2026
Houseplants 101: Care Tips for Thriving Indoor Plants
Join us for this one-hour program all about houseplants! Whether you're a beginner or looking to improve your plant care skills, we'll cover the basics of choosing the right plants for your space, proper watering, light requirements, repotting, and how to spot common problems. You'll leave with practical tips to keep your indoor plants healthy and thriving year-round.
- February 25, 2026 - 12:00 PM
- Register by February 18, 2026
Vegetable Gardening Basics: Grow Your Own Food
Dig into the essentials of starting and maintaining a successful vegetable garden in this one-hour program. We'll cover everything from choosing the right location and preparing your soil to planting, watering, and harvesting your favorite vegetables. Whether you're working with raised beds, containers, or a backyard plot, you'll gain the knowledge and confidence to grow fresh, healthy produce at home.
- March 25, 2026 - 12:00 PM
- Register by March 18, 2026
Effective Communication
Clear, respectful communication is the foundation of healthy relationships—both personal and professional. This program offers practical tools for improving listening skills, understanding nonverbal cues, and expressing thoughts in a constructive way. Participants will learn strategies to reduce misunderstandings, strengthen connections, and communicate with confidence.
- April 22, 2026 - 12:00 PM
- Register by April 15, 2026
Pollinator Gardening
In this one-hour program, learn how to create a vibrant garden that attracts and supports pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. We'll explore the best plants for pollinator habitat, garden design tips, and simple practices to make your space pollinator-friendly. Whether you have a large yard or a few containers, you’ll leave inspired to help pollinators thrive in your own backyard.
- May 27, 2026 - 12:00 PM
- Register by May 20, 2026
Smartphone (Android & iPhone)
This hands-on program helps adults feel more confident using their smartphones and tablets. Learn how to manage contacts, use camera features, adjust settings, and more—with guided support every step of the way. Don’t forget to bring your device and charger!
- June 24, 2026 - 12:00 PM
- Register by June 17, 2026
A Matter of Balance
Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance is an award-winning evidence-based fall prevention program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. Indiana Residents Only. Limited seating up to 12 participants (we ask participants make every effort to attend all sessions).
This program emphasizes practical strategies to manage falls.
Participant Learn To:- view falls as controllable
- set goals for increasing activity
- make changes to reduce fall risks as home
- exercise to increase strength and balance
- anyone concerned about falls
- anyone interested in improving balance, flexibility and strength
- anyone who has fallen in the past
- anyone who has restricted activities because of falling concerns
Location:
North Webster Community Public Library
110 East North Street
North Webster, In 46555
Cost of the Program: $25.00
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM EST
Registration Required: Register for this program by calling Purdue Extension-Kosciusko County at 574.372.2340.
Class Schedule: Each class will build upon the previous session making it important to attend all classes.
- Monday, October 27, 2025 - Introduction to the Program
- Thursday, October 30, 2025 - Exploring Thoughts and Concerns about Falling
- Monday, November 3, 2025 - Exercise and Fall Prevention
- Thursday, November 6, 2025 - Assertiveness and Fall Prevention
- Monday, November 10, 2025 - Managing Concerns about Falling
- Thursday, November 13, 2025 - Recognizing Fall-ty Habits
- Monday, November 17, 2025 - Recognizing Fall Hazards in the Home and Community
- Thursday, November 20, 2025 - Practicing No Fall-ty Habits Fall Prevention: Putting it all together