(Atlantic, IA)  – The Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors were hosted by the staff of Cass County Extension on Thursday, February 26th, where they welcomed a new team member and learned more about the organization’s programs and services.

During the visit, Kate Olson, Director, introduced the Ambassadors to Judy Sandbothe, who joined the Extension team as office assistant at the end of 2025. Olson also shared an overview of the structure and purpose of Cass County Extension, explaining that the organization is funded through property tax support, program revenue, grants, and partnerships. As a tax-levying body, Extension works to provide research-based education and resources to residents across the county.

Extension programming supports individuals and families through a wide range of opportunities, including agriculture and natural resources education, youth development, family and consumer science programming, nutrition and wellness education, and community leadership initiatives. These programs aim to strengthen local farms, families, businesses, and communities by connecting residents with trusted information from Iowa State University.

Back Rows (Left to Right): Lana Westphalen, Bernard Pettinger, Grace McAfee, Nick Miles, Becky Osborne, Connie Wailes, Rae Ome Conn, Dr. Keith Loenard, Auntoni Love, Krysta Hanson, Brittani, Jennifer McEntaffer, Elaine Otte, Sue Liston, Alisha Wagner, Julie Waters, Kathie Hockenberry, Megan Roberts, Bre Preis, Dolly Bergmann, Chris Parks, Wendy Richter, John Bricker, Dan Haynes, Jeff Christensen.
Front Row in Red: Sue Riggs, Katie Bateman, Kate Olson, Judy Sandbothe

Katie Bateman, Youth Coordinator, highlighted the impact of local 4-H programming, which operates under the motto “Making the Best Better.” Cass County 4-H currently serves 194 youth in grades 4 through 12, along with 68 younger participants in Clover Kids for kindergarten through third grade. The county is home to 10 4-H clubs and five Clover Kids clubs, all made possible through the dedication of 35 volunteers who support youth development and hands-on learning experiences.

The Ambassadors appreciated learning more about the educational programs, leadership opportunities, and community partnerships supported by Cass County Extension and the important role the organization plays in serving residents of all ages.

For more information on Extension programming visit their website at http://www.extension.iastate.edu/cass or Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CassCoIAExt.

The Cass County Extension office is located at 805 W. 10th St., Atlantic and is open Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 4:30 PM.