2025 Highlights from the Home and Community Department: Strengthening Utah Families and Communities

USU Extension’s Home and Community Department addresses challenges affecting family and community wellbeing, including financial instability, food insecurity, chronic disease risk, and relationship strain. In 2025, the department implemented an integrated, statewide approach combining financial education, relationship programming, nutrition education, and community wellness initiatives delivered through accessible, research-based formats. Programs produced outcomes across multiple domains. Participants reported increased financial knowledge, confidence, and adoption of behaviors such as budgeting, saving, and debt reduction. Relationship education improved communication, connection, and commitment among couples and families, while parenting and coparenting programs promoted healthier family dynamics. Nutrition initiatives led to improved dietary behaviors, increased physical activity, and sustained lifestyle changes. Community-based wellness efforts strengthened social connection and mental wellbeing. Collectively, these outcomes demonstrate meaningful behavior change and long-term impact. The department’s integrated model strengthens families, improves health outcomes, and builds more resilient communities across Utah.