MISSISSIPPI STATE -- People eager to become trained as Master Health Education Volunteers are being recruited for a program that promotes healthy living in the community.

The three-day training will be held Aug. 9, 23 and 30 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Lauderdale County Extension office in Meridian. The cost to attend is $50, and the deadline to register is Aug. 3.

Sponsored by the Mississippi State University Extension Service, this program is modeled after other successful Extension volunteer programs that enlist trained volunteers as a way to increase educational outreach in communities across Mississippi.

The Master Health Education Volunteer program provides the opportunity for high- quality, health-related community service through a specialized course of training and practice.

Training topics will include understanding the importance of health indicators such as blood pressure, body mass index, cholesterol and blood sugar; women’s health issues surrounding breast and cervical cancer; the importance of proper exercise; education concerning good oral health, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and asthma; and building community partnerships.

Volunteers also must complete 40 hours of community service related to the training. Applicants need no prior experience to participate.

Those interested in the program should contact the local county Extension office or Ann Sansing, Extension community health coordinator, at (662) 325-4043 or asansing@ext.msstate.edu.

Writer: Courtney Coufal