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 August/September/October 2025 here.

woman with calendar for women's health

Women’s Reproductive Health

Explore the menstrual cycle and its different phases. Learn how your body works, what changes to expect during each stage, and how these shifts can affect overall health and welness. This program is designed to empower women of all ages with knowledge, promote confidence, and encourage open conversations about reproductive health. Offered Thursday, October 16th at 5:00pm at the Elkhart Public Library - Dunlap Branch (58485 County Road 13, Elkhart). Duration: 1 hour. Cost: Free. To register, call Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu 

seniors stretching

Matter of Balance Series

Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. Learn how to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity levels, make changes to reduce fall risks at home, and exercise to increase strength and balance. The series will be held Monday and Thursday mornings from 9:30am-11:30am starting Monday, October 27th through Thursday, November 20th at the Purdue Extension Elkhart County office (located on the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds). Fee is $25 per participant. For more information or to register, call Jenn at (574) 533-0554 or email fink24@purdue.edu . Registration is required by October 17th.

air fryer on counter

Cooking with An Air Fryer

Technology is always evolving including the technology we use in the kitchen. The air fryer has become increasingly popular over the last few years. Learn about the ins and outs of an air fryer, different model options, and safety techniques. Offered Wednesday, October 29th at 11:00am at the Owls Club (2715 E. Jackson Blvd., Elkhart). Owls Club is a private, community organization that exists to help aging adults in Elkhart County and surrounding communities thrive. Call the Owls Club at (574) 336-2652 to learn more and sign up for a free membership to register for upcoming programs including this program. Duration: 1 hour. Cost: Free. 

charcuterie board

Charcuterie 101

Discover the secrets of crafting exquisite charcuterie boards that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Our hands-on class will elevate your entertaining game to new heights! Space is limited - open to ages 18 and older. $10 per person - cash or check payable at the door. Registration is required. Offered Thursday, November 20th at 5:00pm at Elkhart Public Library - Dunlap Branch (58485 County Road 13, 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...

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...