Extended Learning, Benton Center win OSU Extension Cooperator Award

Linn-Benton Community College’s Extended Learning and Benton Center win OSU Extension Cooperator Award for their collaboration in a Better Bones and Balance instructor training event this past September.  

LBCC’s Extended Learning and Benton Center received the honor of OSU Extension Cooperator for their collaboration and facilitation of the 2018 Better Bones and Balance (BBB) instructor training event that served 35 participants.

The BBB program was researched and developed by Oregon State University, designed to reduce the rate of hip bone loss and risk of falls in aging populations. BBB exercises have proven to have a positive impact on research-based balance and strength exercises.

"Most fractures occur from a fall,” said lead researcher Kathy Gunter, Ph.D. “Because this program targets strength and balance, it has an immediate impact on reducing the risk for falls.”

In September, Extended Learning and OSU Extension organized the annual instructor training event at LBCC’s Benton Center. Participants came from throughout Oregon to become certified as a new instructor or recertify as an existing instructor.

Participants attended a two-day training that included observing a class taught by a master trainer and attending hands-on training to learn six key movements in the program. All participants took and passed a practical exam to complete their certification.

This annual training event is essential to continue to develop and educate new instructors, allowing greater access to classes throughout the community. Extended Learning and OSU Extension plan to continue this annual training partnership.

“This award signifies LBCC’s collective commitment to furthering the mission of outreach and engagement through their efforts as critical partners of OSU Extension, and specifically BBB," said Gunter.

In the upcoming winter term, LBCC Extended Learning will offer over 20 BBB classes throughout the mid-Willamette Valley.

Left to right: OSU’s Kathy Gunter, LBCC Benton Center Regional Director Jeff Davis, LBCC Extended Learning Director Jeff Flesch, and OSU's Michelle Smith at the OSU awards ceremony.