Erica Blumenfeld has been named the 2024 recipient of the Golden Stars of EFNEP Award. Nominees are chosen among individuals, groups and agencies who have significantly contributed to their county's EFNEP program by providing on-going support to the EFNEP Educator in achieving the county's program goals.

Erica has served as the Farm Director at Eliada Children's Home since January, 2019. She holds a B.A. in Sustainable Agriculture from Warren Wilson College and a Masters in Agricultural and Extension Education from NC State University. Licensed to teach Agriculture in grades 9-12 in North Carolina and with over 15 years experience, she has dedicated her career to working in schools and farms across the country. Erica brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for sustainable agriculture to her role at Eliada.

The Eliada Home and EFNEP partnership began in April 2024 when Amanda Bremseth, Buncombe County's EFNEP educator, reached out to Eliada and learned of Erica's work with their high school youth. After they met and discussed how to best collaborate, Erica has hosted two summers of EFNEP classes inside Eliada farm's geodesic grow dome (a type of greenhouse), the perfect setting and backdrop for learning how and why one should incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their daily choices. Much of the produce grown here is used in the facility cafeteria serving the children and faculty.

In addition to sharing their grow dome classroom, Erica offers assistance throughout each class and remains on hand, encouraging the students to participate.

With all of the farm-centered classes limited to the summer months, Erica also provides a connection between EFNEP and Eliada's foster care program to continue growing their partnership into the rest of the school year.

Two groups within Eliada will qualify for EFNEP classes, the current foster parents as well as the children aging out of the foster program. They are the perfect candidates for the Fuel For Life curriculum as they will need instruction on how to set up their first kitchens as independent adults.

Please join us in a heartfelt congratulations to Erica Blumenfeld and Eliada Home for winning this well-deserved recognition!