The focus of the FCS program is to improve individual and family behaviors, and community well-being. Agents offer programs aimed at  providing education and resources relating to food  and nutrition, health and wellness, and a wide range of family issues such as changing family structures, inter-generational relations; human response to stress and crisis; family laws, finance and economics; and decision-making.

For more information about these topics or available programs please contact the MSU Yellowstone County Extension Office and speak with Family & Consumer Science Agent, Sara Fluer.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

QPR Gatekeeper Training

QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) is an evidence-based suicide prevention training.  Participants will learn how to develop the skills and confidence to identify the warning signs of suicide and provide help to someone in crisis.  This program is part of a research study being conducted by Montana State University.  Participation in this research is voluntary and anonymous.

Available Program Dates 

  • Wednesday, March 29 - 11:30am - 1pm
  • Tuesday, June 27 - 11:30am - 1pm
  • Tuesday, August 29 - 11:30am - 1pm

Location: 

  • 4-H Building @ MetraPark ~ 308 6th Ave North, Billings, MT

Fee: This program is FREE

Register:  https://tinyurl.com/y28b69zd.  Each class is limited to 20 participants.

StrongPeople

StrongPeople is an evidence-based strength training program designed for older adults who want to stay strong, fit, and healthy. Each class progresses through a series of 8-10 exercises focused on resistance training, balance, and flexibility.

Program Date(s) & Location: Contact the Extension Office for more information.

Spring Cooking Series

Join MSU Extension Yellowstone County for a spring cooking series and explore a different perspective on healthy eating each month.  You may register for any class(es) of your choice, attending all three is not required. 

  • Location: All classes will be held at the 4-H Building @ MetraPark ~ 308 6th Ave North, Billings, MT.
  • Fee: Fee is $15/person for each class, cash or check only (credit card payment is not available).
  • Make checks payable to “MSU Extension” and deliver in-person during business hours or mail to the following address:  301 N 27th Street, Suite 330, Billings, MT 59101. 

Class #1: Heart Healthy Cooking

Date: Tuesday, April 25th - 11:00am - 1pm

**Registration Deadline is April 18, 2023.

Learn about planning and creating balanced meals that support cardiovascular health. Expect an overview of heart healthy foods and complementary health strategies; then prepare for hands-on practice by cooking a delicious heart healthy recipe. Participants will receive a recipe booklet with heart friendly recipes to make at home.

Class #2:  Cooking for 1 or 2

Date: Wednesday, May 31 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm

**Registration Deadline is May 24, 2023.

When cooking for 1 or 2, planning ahead is key. Learn strategies for planning a nutritious meal that reduces waste, stretches your grocery dollars, and maximizes leftovers. For the hands-on part of the class, enjoy following a recipe to create a simple, small dish. Participants will receive a recipe booklet of easy, healthy recipes for 1 or 2 to make at home.

Class #3:  Main Course Salads

Date: Thursday, June 15 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm

**Registration Deadline is June 8, 2023.

Take salads from being a boring side dish to the main event. The options to combine grains, protein, dairy, fruits, and vegetables are truly endless with this versatile dish. In this class, follow a recipe and make a salad that is anything but traditional. Participants will receive a recipe booklet with main course salad recipes to make at home.