MEET THE TENANTS: University of Florida IFAS Extension

Lealman Exchange is home to a variety of tenant organizations who serve our community and beyond.  Today, we are chatting with Cindi Hetz, Extension Agent I: Family and Consumer Sciences for University of Florida IFAS Extension.

Tell us a little about yourself and your organization: I have worked with UF/IFAS Extension since 2014.  My current role with Family and Consumer Sciences focuses on first-time homebuyer education and counseling, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance programming, and youth and adult life skills programming.

Tell us who you serve and how: I provide programming for the residents of Pinellas County and Florida in our statewide homebuying education program. When participants complete the class, they receive a certificate that can be used for down payment assistance programs.

What drives your mission? During my early career at the University of Florida IFAS Extension Pinellas County, I taught and managed the SNAP Education program for Pinellas County. SNAP-Ed uses evidence-based public health projects and interventions to educate eligible participants regarding healthy lifestyle choices, saving money, and implementing policy, systems, and environmental changes. I developed a profound understanding of the systemic issues affecting vulnerable populations and the crucial role that educators, social workers, non-profits, and other agencies play in addressing these challenges. I am passionate about conveying nonbiased, scientific information to the public to help find solutions to situations in their life.

Do you have an accomplishment you are particularly proud of and would like to share? I recently passed the Housing and Urban Development exam to become a HUD-certified housing counselor. I have also just started a master’s program in social work.

What programs or opportunities are available to our Lealman neighbors through your organization?  UF/IFAS Extension has a vast array of educational outreach, programming, hands-on activities, online learning, and more.  Currently, I am providing VITA services at the Lealman Exchange. Email clhetz@ufl.edu for more information. Our website can show you more about upcoming programming: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellas/  and check out our Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/garden-and-landscape-ufifas-extension-pinellas-county-29708813079

To learn more about University of Florida IFAS Extension, visit https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/pinellas/  and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PinellasExtension/ or Instagram @ufifas_solutions.