OCT 16 MEDIA RELEASE__Hardin County Ohio State University Extension Educator Amanda Raines received the Mid-Career Service Award at the Epsilon Sigma Phi (ESP) National Conference in Fort Worth, Texas last week.

The award recognizes outstanding efforts of Extension professionals with 10 to 20 years of service who exhibit continuing leadership and excellence in State Extension program planning, delivery, and evaluation in program and/or administration. One person is recognized from each of ESP's four regions. Professionals in all program areas and administration are considered for the award. Raines received the national award for the North Central region, which includes 11 states.

Raines joined the OSU Extension Hardin County staff in 2011. As the 4-H Youth Development Educator, she oversees Hardin County's 4-H clubs and volunteers, directs 4-H Camp, and helps plan and facilitate the Hardin County Fair. She is also engaged in various school-based programs in all five Hardin County schools. Helping youth and the adults who work with them understand mental health and connect to resources is one of Amanda’s specializations. She is a nationally certified instructor of Mental Health First Aid®, Youth Mental Health First Aid®, and Teen Mental Health First Aid®. She also co-authored the Nationally Peer-Reviewed 4-H project books Your Thoughts Matter: Navigating Mental Health and Your Feelings Matter, which have been adopted by 4-H and school programs across the nation. She brings a focus on workforce development, leadership, and stewardship to all 4-H programs, helping youth connect what they are learning to skills needed for a successful future.

Epsilon Sigma Phi is the Extension Professionals' Organization. Their mission is to foster standards of excellence in the Extension system and to develop the Extension profession. Ohio has 322 active ESP members. Raines is currently serving as the Ohio Chapter President.