Celebrating One Year of Empowering SNAP-Ed Program Staff Through Digital Innovation

How Our LMS Transformed Internal Training and Collaboration for the University of Illinois SNAP-Ed Program 

One year ago, Breakthrough Technologies partnered with the University of Illinois to tackle a unique challenge: building a digital learning platform to empower the dedicated staff behind the Illinois Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (IL SNAP-Ed). 

Unlike many Learning Management Systems designed for public learners, this solution had a focused audience—the educators, coordinators, and community leaders responsible for delivering the IL SNAP-Ed mission across the state. These professionals work tirelessly to promote healthy eating and active living among Illinois residents through the “Eat. Move. Save.” initiative. Our goal was to give them the tools and infrastructure needed to do their jobs more efficiently, consistently, and collaboratively. 

Understanding the Challenge 

IL SNAP-Ed operates statewide, with staff working across different regions and roles. The program needed a robust, flexible, and user-friendly LMS that could: 

• Support ongoing staff training and certification  

• Provide centralized access to evolving educational resources  

• Integrate with existing systems already in use  

• Offer real-time analytics to track engagement and compliance  

• Be fully mobile optimized for staff in the field 

  
  

Our Solution 

Working closely with the University of Illinois Extension and the Chicago Partnership for Health Promotion, Breakthrough Technologies developed a custom LMS powered by Drupal, tailored specifically to the operational needs of IL SNAP-Ed staff. 

Some key features include: 

• A modern, intuitive interface designed for ease of use across all technical skill levels 

• Seamless integration with internal tools and workflows  

• Mobile access for flexibility in the field  

• Analytics dashboards for program administrators to monitor training progress and participation  

• Scalable architecture to grow with the program’s evolving needs 

  
  

One Year Later: Measurable Impact 

Since its launch, the LMS has become a critical hub for IL SNAP-Ed staff, improving communication, standardizing training, and providing actionable insights that help guide program strategy. Staff members now have a centralized space to stay up to date on best practices, track certifications, and collaborate more effectively across regions. 

The partnership has also strengthened our commitment to designing purpose-built platforms that not only solve technical challenges but truly support the mission of public-serving organizations. 

Looking Ahead 

We're proud of what we've accomplished together over the past year, and we’re excited to continue enhancing the platform as IL SNAP-Ed’s needs evolve. Supporting those who support communities is a privilege—and this project has been a perfect example of how the right digital infrastructure can amplify impact behind the scenes. 

Happy one-year anniversary to this incredible collaboration!