Medicare Counseling
Navigating the complexities of Medicare can be overwhelming. The Extension office offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling to help individuals understand their options, enroll in plans, and troubleshoot issues. Our trained counselors can explain the different parts of Medicare (A, B, C, and D), help you compare various supplemental plans, and assist with the annual enrollment process. This service is designed to empower seniors and their caregivers to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage without the pressure of a sales pitch.
Facilitation Services
Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful group or organization. Extension offers facilitation services to help groups—from non-profits to government agencies—run more productive meetings, resolve conflicts, and plan for the future. Our trained facilitators can guide discussions, ensure all voices are heard, and keep the group focused on its goals. This service is invaluable for helping communities and organizations work together more effectively and achieve consensus on important issues.
Currituck 4-H Backpacks for Kids
Food insecurity is a real challenge for many families. The Currituck 4-H Backpacks for Kids weekend feeding program directly addresses this issue by providing nutritious, easy-to-prepare food to schoolchildren who may not have enough to eat over the weekend. Every Friday, participating students receive a backpack filled with food items to take home. This program is a vital support system for children, ensuring they return to school on Monday ready to learn, without the distractions of hunger. This initiative is a testament to the Extension's commitment to the well-being of the entire community. This program relies on community donations and grants to operate. Donations are always welcome and are tax deductible through the Currituck Extension Foundation, a 501(c)3 corporation.
Soil Sampling
For both avid gardeners and commercial farmers, soil sampling is a critical, yet often underutilized, service. Taking a soil sample and having it tested provides a detailed analysis of your soil's composition, including its pH level and nutrient content. This information is essential for determining what types of fertilizers or amendments are needed for optimal plant growth. Without a proper soil analysis, you might be over-fertilizing, which can be costly and environmentally harmful, or under-fertilizing, which can lead to poor yields. The Extension office provides the necessary supplies and instructions for taking a sample and sends it to a state lab for analysis. You can have your samples analyzed for free from April-mid November. November 27 through March 31 (peak season), this service is available at a cost of $4 per sample.
Get in Touch
We encourage everyone to contact their local Extension office to learn more about these and other programs available. We are a resource for the entire community and are here to help you live a better, healthier, and more productive life. For more information, contact Cameron Lowe, County Extension Director at cameron_lowe@ncsu.edu or 252-232-2261.
