Extension
It Starts With Us
Author: Lora Howard
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Diabetes CoalitionThe incidence of diabetes in KY has doubled from 2000 to 2017, it increased to 12.9%. The prevalence of diabetes in the Cumberland Valley Region is 15.8 % and many are living with diabetes and don’t know they have it.The Family and Consumer Science Agent was asked to participate in a grant to form a Diabetes Coalition in Clay County. Each county will receive 10,000.00 to form the coalition and sponsor programs for diabetics or pre diabetic individuals.The Clay Count
Author: Anita Boyd
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to Trust for America’s Health September 2016 article, Kentucky ranks #5 out of the 50 states for obesity. Kentucky's adult obesity rate is currently 36.6 percent, highest in decades.In response to this problem the Mason County NEP Assistant conducted a Healthy Choices for Every Body class for a group of 8 adults. The class met one day a week for seven weeks. Participants viewed cooking demonstrations and got to taste a healthy recipe that inco
Author: Anita Boyd
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), state adult obesity rates continue to climb: 39.8% of adults were considered obese in 2015–2016. The term “obesity epidemic” has been used to describe the prevalence of obesity and its negative influence on human health. Realizing a lot of people do not have the time to attend “traditional classroom style” classes, the Mason County Nutrition Education Program assistant began teaching a Facebook Live Healthy Ch
Author: Anita Boyd
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to Adrienne Youdim, contributing writer to THE HILL, being a healthy child includes educating that child on proper nutrition and physical activity in order to grow into healthy adults. Poor nutrition and obesity continue to be a problem in the United States. In fact, the most recent reports indicate that 12.7-million, or 17 percent of our children, ages 2-19, are obese. Unfortunately, despite these alarming statistics, formal health education in schools does not include basic nut
Author: Anita Boyd
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Food historian, Andrew F. Smith, states of the biggest changes that has rippled across the food industry is a loss of cooking skills. This is despite the popularity of cooking shows and Instagram food photos. This trend is true across age groups. There are many benefits of having cooking skills. These benefits include the following: better nutrition because cooking from scratch allows children to see the difference between real food and processed foods. Cooking cuts down on picky eat
Author: Janey Cline
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The 2014-2016 data profile for Hart County recorded the obesity rate at 31%. In 2013-2015, 36.8% of adults ages 20 and over reported no leisure time for physical activity and 38.3% had hypertension. This inactivity along with the high obesity rate resulted in 24% of adults saying they were in poor to fair health. To begin addressing the health issues the Hart County Health Department along with the Hart County Family and Consumer Science Extension agent teamed up for a 4 week prog
Author: Jill Harris
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Research is starting to demonstrate that practicing mindfulness can bring improvements in both physical and psychological symptoms as well as positive changes in health, attitudes, and behaviors.In response to these findings, the Todd County Extension Agent for Family & Consumer Sciences taught the workshop Mindfulness & Meditation for the Todd County Extension Homemaker Association. Emphasis was placed on understanding the different types of mindfulness practices, the role of mindf
Author: Melissa Goodman
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In 2013-2015, 31.9% of adults in Hickman County age 20 and over reported no leisure-time physical activity. At the same time, only 69.2 children entering kindergarten are ready to learn. Physical activity, healthy local food choices, and early community literacy opportunities were strategically combined through the Story Walk experience. The Hickman County 4-H, FCS, and ANR agents collaborated with the Family Resource Youth Service Cent
Author: Cathy Sparks
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Pink Ribbon LuncheonMagoffin County-Cathy SparksCounty Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences In 2012, Breast Cancer represented about 12 percent of all new cancer cases and twenty-five percent of all cancers in women. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in one hundred forty of one hundred eighty-four countries worldwide. Globally, breast cancer now repres
Author: Christy Stearns
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to the 2017 State of Childhood Obesity, Kentucky is ranked third in high school student obesity at 20.2%. Unfortunately, youth in Clinton County struggle to understand healthy eating behaviors as much as their peers throughout the Commonwealth. The Clinton County Cooperative Extension Service implemented the Healthy Lifestyle Choices program for 16 high school food science class students. 88% of students increased knowledge in nutritional concepts taught such as the consequences of con
Author: Christy Stearns
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The fast pace of today’s family life can make it easy to forget that simply just spending time together is really important. Quality family time strengthens bonds, improves communication, and enhances self-esteem of children. To promote togetherness, learning, and physical activity, the Clinton County Extension Office hosted a Pumpkin Walk event for families. The event encouraged families to participate in literacy and enrichment activities, be active, and learn more about health and
Author: Edith Lovett
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Twin Oak Acres, the largest sweet potato grower in Kentucky, reports to the Pulaski County Extension Office that they have sold the most sweet potatoes this year in the history of the farm. The Twin Oak Acres Farm was one of the farms featured on the City-Farm Tour, jointly sponsored by the Pulaski County Extension Office, and was also featured in the Family and Consumer Sciences Agents newspaper article on the value of sweet potatoes in your diet. Sweet P
Author: Linda Combs
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to the 2017 KY: County Health rankings Knott County ranks 117 of 120 Kentucky counties in health outcomes. The report stats the county obesity rate is 40% and the level of physical inactivity is 37%. Obese individuals are at an increased risk for many chronic health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and some types of cancers. Increased consumption of unhealthy food, stress and a built environment that divides the communities and makes it difficult to access o
Author: Diane Mason
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) approximately 48 million people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne disease each year in the United States. The CDC also states there are 31 pathogens known to cause foodborne illness. (CDC at https://www.cdc.gov/foodborneburden/2011-foodborne-estimates.html). Foodborne illness symptoms can occur anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks after a contaminated food is consumed often making it difficult to identify the s
Author: Raven Ford
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Healthy living is one of the seven core areas of 4-H programming. It is included in the 4-H Pledge: “I pledge my health to better living”. According to research, moderate physical activity can reduce the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, stress and high blood pressure. Children and youth should engage in 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. The National 4-H Healthy Living Task Force believes that healthy living habits of young people beg
Author: Jennifer Bridge
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The HIP program was created by the Lincoln Trail Area Health District Nutritionist and the Meade County FCS agent to address the need for knowledge of good nutrition's and health practices in relation to disease prevention. Thirteen people started with seven completing the year long program which consisted of three meetings per month for six months then one meeting per month for the remainder of the program. Participants learned about a variety of health related topics, ho
Author: Kendyl Redding
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to the National Survey of Children’s Health, Kentucky is ranked the third highest state for childhood obesity with 20.8% of youth ages 10 to 17 being obese. The overall increase in obesity is a result of behaviors that influence excess weight gain including poor diet, lack of physical activity, and sedentary activities such as watching television or other screen devices. However, community can also influence the ability to make healthy choices. It can be difficult for parents and
Author: Brenda Cockerham
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
There are a number of jails and 2 Federal prisons in a 10 county service area of the North Eastern part of Kentucky. In one prison alone, an average of 300 people per year exit the system to begin to return society. These individuals, have often not had the opportunity to learn basic fundamental life skills that Family and Consumer Sciences routinely teach. It was the commitment of the FCS agents in this region to reach out to this particular audience to extend some of the information to them. T
Author: Cathy Sparks
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Weight, the Reality SeriesCathy Sparks, FCS Obesity has become a large problem in Magoffin County, contributing to many health issues for our residents. According to the Kentucky Extension Community Assessment for Magoffin County in 2019, thirty-nine percent of the population is considered obese. There are other factors that were found in this report that also contribute to the obesity rate. Magoffin County has the highest unemplo
Author: Amanda Hardy
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Henderson County Diabetes Coalition is made up individuals that either have diabetes, are health professionals such as local hospital dieticians, health department, pharmacist, community college nursing department, radio station, local restaurant owner, and community volunteers. The Henderson County Diabetes Coalition conducts diabetes awareness and prevention through educational programs, marketing efforts by radio, newspaper and billboards. The group provides diabetes education
Author: Brenda Cockerham
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
A Matter of Balance and the Importance of Balance is an issue facing many aging people. Thirty four participants learned that improved heart fitness, clear thinking and fall prevention are all benefits of being active. 34 recognized there is a proper wat to sit or stand with you are doing stretches and strength building activities. and 100% recognize there are small activities that you can do to help your balance. As a result of the monthly lunch and learn sessions, participants attending
Author: Sheila Fawbush
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The prevalence of obesity in America has been an ongoing and increasing issue. In Kentucky, 30% of adults are obese, while Shelby County has a 30.9% obesity rate. The low-income preschool obesity rates are alarming as well, with 21.3% of children being overweight or obese in Shelby County, and 15.9% of children being overweight and obese in the entire state. According to Kentucky Health News in early 2014, only 23% of Kentuckians consume the recommended 5 or more servings a day of fruits and veg
Author: Sheila Fawbush
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year. But it doesn’t affect all women alike, and the warning signs for women aren’t the same as in men. Cardiovascular disease is largely preventable with lifestyle changes. The Shelby County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent and the Family and Consumer Sciences Advisory Council planned a “Go Red for Heart Health” luncheon and educational program. The free luncheon was sponsored by ten community
Author: Allison Lewis
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
After moving into our new educational facility in 2013, the Spencer County Cooperative Extension Council decided in 2017 to start the process of developing the 10 acres around our office. In the spring of 2018, a University of Kentucky Landscape Architecture student used our facility as his senior project and he presented his ideas for the development at a council meeting later that spring. After the in
Author: Andrea Slone
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In 2018, Floyd County was ranked 112th in health outcomes and 108th in health factors out of the 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. According to the Kentucky Health facts, 36% of Floyd County adults claimed to be in less than good health making it 13% higher than the state average. In efforts to increase health awareness and overall health of the county, the Floyd County Family & Consumer Sciences program developed the online progra
Author: Donna Fryman
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Diabetes is a prevalent health condition for Fleming County residents. To help people deal with the challenges of diabetes a support group has been formed and functioning for the past two years. In 2019, a volunteer helped arranged for various health professionals to speak to the group each month. After the year of programs and interactions with speakers and each other, there have been many positive changes and results of the participants. One partic
Author: Denise Wooley
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Graves County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences offered a newsletter-based walking program designed for individuals who have not previously been physically active or who have not been physically active in a long time. There were three scheduled in-person meetings. The challenge was kicked off with a presentation from a Community Outreach Coordinator at the Market Cancer Center focusing on Get Fit Be Smart. The local health department opened their gym to the walking challenge clie
Author: Annette Heisdorffer
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Title: Extension Improves Mental Health and Increases Self-Worth of Men in Addiction Recovery Center through GardeningOver the past 20 years, the number of people incarcerated and deaths from drug abuse have continued to rise. Daviess County strives to change the addiction of alcohol and drugs that plague our communities. The Daviess County Cooperative Extension Service partnered with Owensboro Regional Recovery to organize and conduct a garden therapy program which serves men
Author: Rachael Price
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Grant County KY has an Adult obesity rate of 35.6% and a physical activity rate of 30.2%. The Grant County Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) program and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) worked together to offer 8 weeks of classes using Weight the Reality Series, Healthy Choices, and Small Steps to Health and Wealth curriculum to help Grant County Adults improve their nutrition and be more active.The group was encouraged to eat a variety of healthy foods and reduce the intake of
Author: Cabrina Buckman
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) continues to be a public health epidemic across Kentucky. Public health professionals believe 1 in 7 adults in Kentucky have diagnosed T2D, 13.7% of the adult population which is higher than the national average at 10.5%. In addition, 1 in 3 adults have diagnosed or undiagnosed prediabetes, which equals approximately 1.1 million Kentucky adults at greater risk of developing T2D.Specifically, Washington County in central Kentucky, faces diagnosed diabetes rates similar to th
Author: Brenda Cockerham
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Face mask report 2020:The population of Johnson County is 22,286 people. Of that 8,847 people are over the age of 50 (KY by the numbers 2018). Forty percent of the population is at high risk for not just contracting covid-19, but also of having detrimental and life threatening symptoms. One of the top strategies to prevent the spread of disease was social distancing, washing hands, wearing gloves and facemasks. The facemasks (classified as n95) became difficult to come by. Eleven Extension
Author: Lynn Blankenship
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Metcalfe County Different Abilities group includes young adult members diagnosed with autism, Down’s syndrome and other special needs with their adult mentors. The Metcalfe Co. SNAP Assistant decided to start a monthly NEP class at the Extension office in Edmonton, to meet the needs of this group. She worked with them to help them learn about how to eat healthier, save money when grocery shopping and gain cooking skills, to become more independent and confident in the
Author: Lora Howard
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The COVID 19 virus changed the way programming was offered to clients in Clay County by the Family and Consumer Science Program. The Family and Consumer Science Agent did 14Facebook Live videos on a variety of topics to provide educational information to the public. Publications related to some of the videos where provided in our public access vestibule for clients to pick up for additional information.Facebook Lives reached many more viewers than traditional programs ever had.
Author: Lora Howard
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Clay County Family and Consumer Science Council was the leader for the Word of the Month Banner. During our program planning session one member discussed the need for young people and adults to build character and a brain storming fire started for the council. The banners are character words with the definition that youth and adults need to live by. They contacted businesses to see if they would sponsor each month and chose the words for the banners. We had seven businesses that s
Author: Karli Giles
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Jessamine County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent worked towards providing materials and resources to the community of Jessamine County during the coronavirus pandemic. The FCS Agent used multiple outlets to give support to the community. Those outlets include the Jessamine County Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Facebook page, a weekly article in the Jessamine Journal, a biweekly e-newsletter, porch kits for youth, resource packets for the Nicholasville and Wilmore Farmer’s Ma
Author: Judith O'Bryan
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Center for Disease Control reports that around 48 million Americans are sickened by foodborne illnesses every year. Reports indicate that some forms of foodborne infections have increased over the last few years. Many Extension Homemaker members participate in potlucks throughout the year whether at Extension programs, churches or in community organizations. Using information in the “Sharing Meals Together: A Guide to Smarter Potlucks” Handbook, the Laurel County Family and
Author: Edith Lovett
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Pulaski County Cooperative Extension Service empowers communities to respond to challenges they face and reacting to the COVID-19 pandemic has been no different. One of the first challenges identified with the COVID-19 was the shortage of masks available to all people in the community. The Pulaski County Extension Service provided materials, threads and elastic with the directions for making the mask from CDC, to interested sewers in the county
Author: Cabrina Buckman
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The CDC recommends the use of cloth face coverings to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The Washington County Extension Service contributed to this health recommendation through organizing donations from the community and distributing kits to the community. The University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Administration facilitated a state-wide donation of cloth face coverings to the Kentucky Children's Hospital. The Washington County Family and Consumer Sciences Age
Author: Edith Lovett
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to research, nearly one in four adults aged 65 and older have trouble walking, climbing stairs, getting in and out of their car, taking care of their personal needs, such as dressing or bathing, and have an increased incident of falling. As we age, these difficulties can impact our well-being and our ability to live independently. Exercising to improve balance, increase their muscles, improve their flexibility, and increase their mot
Author: Kenna Knight
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Pendleton County Family and Consumer Science Extension Agent in collaboration with six administrators and eight teachers from the Pendleton County School District, both the North and South Family Resource Directors and the local health department offered the Recipe for Life program to 217 fifth grade students. 40 Adult volunteers and 40 high school student volunteers worked with students in a hands-on-educational setting to teach important life skill that strengthen the Assets as ident
Author: Donna Fryman
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to the 2018 Annual SNAP-Ed Report for Kentucky, at least one out of 3 Kentucky children are overweight or obese. Nearly half of Kentucky children consume fruits less than once daily, well below the 1½ to 2 cups daily recommended by USDA MyPlate. Children who consume low amounts of fruits and vegetables are at greater risk for many nutrition related health problems. According to the Centers for Disease Control, ”eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables daily can help red
Author: LeChrista Finn
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Kentucky State University (KSU) regularly provides opportunities for students and families to tour the campus. However, the BREDS Experience is a day dedicated specifically to provide middle and high school students the opportunity to learn about the rich history of the campus, programs offered and experience student life. Students tour the campus, meet the various departments represented at the University, eat lunch in the cafeteria, attend a game and can even apply for admission.Le
Author: Allison Lewis
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Due to Covid-19 the Spencer County Extension Agents had to learn how to change our ideas on programming to reach our community. FaceBook Live, FaceBook, and the office website have served as tools to make the pavilion projects to go a huge success in Spencer County.Over 1900 projects have been given to members of the community through the pavilion projects. 950 kits have been distributed to students through our partnerships with Taylorsville Elementary School, Spencer County Middle
Author: Allison Lewis
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Many American’s only have a minimal amount of extra time, this is the same for Spencer County Residents. That is why the Spencer County FCS agent and the program assistant developed a lunch and learn program at the Spencer County Library where residents could come once a month to learn various information on such topics as How to Get Organized, Stress Management, Composting and basic nutrition for one hour. This the second year for this program and the turnout more than doubled.On average
Author: Kayla Walton
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the social distancing guidelines from our state and national public health entities, many in-person extension programs were not able to continue in the spring and summer months of this year. To adapt to these changes, our family and consumer science and 4-H agent created several programs “to-go” which were packaged and in front of the office for families to pick up and take home to complete. About 20 programs to-go were available for each topic. The p
Author: Anita Boyd
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
As Covid-19 put everyone in a different “new normal”, kids were home, restaurants were closed, grocery store shelves of ready-made foods were empty (not to mention the toilet paper situation!) and we had to cook. To help make this task healthy and easy, the Mason County EFNEP assistant started a weekly video series of healthy meals and snacks. Using recipes from the Healthy Choices for Every Body curriculum, NEP calendars, and Plan Eat Move website, a different recipe was demon
Author: Jennifer Bridge
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Getting ready for the Longest Day of Play, Driveby style to maintain social distancing due to COVID-19. Handing out items. Teri King-NEP Assistant and Jennifer Bridge, FCS AgentJennifer Bridge, FCS agent handing out packets, explaining items in the folder and how to access the QR code to evaluate the activity.Covid-19 continued to disrupt plans so modifications needed to be made to adjust to the new normal in programming. The Longest Day of Play happened to be a Sunday this year
Author: Kerri Ashurst
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Dr. Ashurst became the national co-chair in Fall 2018 for the Youth Experiencing Homelessness National Subcommittee, one of the 7 subcommittees of the "Access, Equity and Belonging Committee" (AEBC), a national priority through USDA, National 4-H, and Extension Committee on Policy.Ashurst co-chairs the multi-state subcommittee, currently including Extension personnel from 11 states that are conducting programming for youth who are experiencing or at high risk for experiencing hom
Author: Kerri Ashurst
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
During the reporting period, Dr. Ashurst received 3 grants/contracts totaling $291,914. One grant for $87,000 (year 1 amount; 5 year grant) is for a Children, Youth and Families at Risk (CYFAR) grant to provide life skills programming for at-risk youth. Grant sites will be in Fayette and Hardin Counties. A second grant is for $174,999 and is for a Military Teen Adventure Camp program to hold camps for service members and their teenage children to attend together to reconnect and focus on the par
Author: Emily DeWitt
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Power of Produce (POP Club) is an initiative developed by the national Farmer’s Market Coalition. The goal of the incentive program is to bring kids to the farmers markets, helping them learn more about where food comes from in their communities, and to empower them to make healthy food choices. In Year 1 of the CDC High Obesity Program (HOP) project, our team collaborated with the Agriculture and FCS Agents in Martin County to implement the POP Club at the Martin County Farmers' M
Author: Lora Pullin
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
It is estimated that 20 percent of adults in the United States have tried at least one meal kit delivery service. With the demand for convenience in our society, meal kits seem to be the answer for grocery shopping, meal planning, and meal preparation. Anyone who has not tried meal kits might be interested in learning how meal kits work and whether they are worth the investment for preparing and consuming more meals at home. In response to this, the Greenup County Extension Office hosted th
Author: Natalie Taul
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In recent years, virtual programming has been a little bit of a taboo subject in Extension. Extension thrives on person to person interaction and building relationships. However, three months into 2020, Extension Services, like so many other businesses and organizations, had to figure out how to continue to deliver quality educational programming in the face of the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Grayson County Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent partnered with the local Early Childhood Edu
Author: Judith O'Bryan
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In March of 2020 Kentucky declared a state of emergency because of a global pandemic and we were told to shelter at home. Due to this order traditional Extension programming had to be put on hold, but the need for research based information was greater than ever. In addition to answering phone calls and communicating through social media, the Laurel County Cooperative Extension offered 10 programs in To-Go Bags. Families were offered a different bag and topic each week. T
Author: Karen Denniston
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Bourbon County FCS and Middle School Partner for Smarter LunchroomsAccording to the 2018 Annual SNAP-Ed Report for Kentucky, at least one out of 3 Kentucky children are overweight or obese. Nearly half of Kentucky children consume fruits less than once daily, well below the 1½ to 2 cups daily recommended by USDA MyPlate. Children who consume low amounts of fruits and vegetables are at greater risk for many nutrition related health problems. According to the Centers for Disease Contro
Author: Alethea Price
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Adult How To was created to teach basic life skills programming to adults. This program is offered for free at the Boyle County Public Library. The series is held monthly with topics ranging from car maintenance, basic tools and budgeting skills to green cleaning, time management, and decluttering. This program is a great opportinity for hands on learning. It's held in the evening to accommodate schedules. Occasionally, the FCS Agent would call in expert guest speakers to share knowledg
Author: Sarah Congleton
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Growing educational information through online resources has been a goal for Montgomery County Extension for several years. With the COVID-19 pandemic in play, this was the perfect time to expand our resource via social media sites. The Family and Consumer Sciences program merged to meet the needs of the community by offering take home programs and offered various resources of information, podcasts, zoom trainings, etc. online. The FCS program also offered short cooking demonstrations that famil
Author: Kelly Burgess
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Allen County falls below state averages in a variety of health indicators, therefore nutrition and physical activity are key focuses for promoting healthier lifestyles in the county. In Allen County, the obesity rate is higher than the state average, 41% and 35%, respectively, according to kentuckyhealthfacts.org. In addition, 24% of adults age 20+ report participating in no leisure time physical activity (County Health Rankings 2014). Due to the challenges of the COVID-19
Author: Melissa Goodman
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Low levels of physical activity, unhealthy nutrition, and poor mental health are all determinants of several chronic diseases. These behaviors are now considered major public health concerns and require effective behavior change interventions. Building physical activity into the day does not require special equipment or a certain location. However, the World Health Organization (Jane et al., 2018) has recognized the importance of social resources as a valuable agent for behavior change in health
Author: Mary Hixson
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent for Garrard County partnered with the FCS Extension Agent for Bullitt County on the "shelter at home” initiative to offer an online Needlework class. With the resurgence of heritage skills, Needlework can be a way to learn new skills of the mind, heart and hands. Handwork develops focus and concentration. It encourages following a process in order to complete a project. It enhances critical thinking and math skills. It increases h
Author: Mary Hixson
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Tatting-a needlework skill that has been around since the late 1700's, created by shuttle or needle. According to the article, “Why Crafting Is Great For Your Brain: A Neuroscientist Explains” by Dr. Sarah McKay, crafting with others offers: “mental challenge and problem solving; social connection; mindfulness; development of hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and fine motor dexterity; focused attention and thoughts on a task; active creativity; a sense of pride and
Author: Heather Norman-Burgdolf
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Cooperative Extension Service (CES) infrastructure and subject matter expertise are well suited for harnessing the autonomy and self-sufficiency commonly found in rural communities to create healthier people and environments through policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) approaches. Similar to public health nutritionists, CES agents, specifically Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) agents and program assistants, are accustomed to providing direct education activities for individuals,
Author: Katherine Alexander
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, our County Extension Office had to remain closed to the public, which meant we could not have our usual in-person, cooking, nutrition or project classes. As Extension Agents, we still needed to get information and activities to our clientele; we just had to think outside the box. Majority of the state started using Grab and Go kits to get publications and activities to our county residents during this difficult time. Daviess County Family and Consumer Sc
Author: Courtney Luecking
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Cooperative Extension Service (CES) has a longstanding tradition of facilitating the development and delivery of evidence-based solutions that meet the needs of local communities. Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Agents and program assistants are particularly responsive to needs regarding direct nutrition and health education activities for individuals, families, and organizations. However, there has been an increased call for action to go beyond direct education programming and target the
Author: Lynnette Allen
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Research shows that overall wellness is more than the number on the scales. According to the American Heart Association long-term stress can cause risk for health conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. Also, recent studies show that sleep is another important aspect to health and mental wellness. Over time, sleep deprivation can negatively affect your energy levels and even your body’s ability to fight off infection. To increase awareness and
Author: Anna Morgan
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Accessing healthcare services is critical to being healthy but in rural western Kentucky residents face a variety of access barriers. Ideally, rural residents should be able to have many simple medical services such as primary care, dental care, behavioral health, emergency care, and public health services readily but they do not. According to Healthy People 2020, access to healthcare is important for: overall physical, social, and mental health status, prevention of disease, detection and treat
Author: Matti Coffey
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Traditional Extension Family and Consumer Sciences programming looks very similar to a classroom setting, sometimes hands-on, or in more of a intimate group setting that promotes discussion. Since March of 2020, all of Cooperative Extension had to be innovative in helping our community get Extension programs. In FCS, it's geared toward the whole family. Agents across the state and in Whitley County began to reach others with Extension knowledge by media channels, social media, and web confer
Author: Tamera Magee
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Franklin Co. Cooperative Extension service partnered with the Franklin Co. Court Designated Worker Program to offer relationship education to vulnerable youth. These skills are needed to develop positive interactions with self, family, peers, school personnel, and in the workplace. Research suggests that addressing topics of the youth and their relationships is necessary and long overdue. It is believed that the development of positive relationships can encourage improvement in academi
Author: Andrea Slone
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In March 2020, life as we use to know it completely changed. In Kentucky, social distancing came into effect, businesses had to close their doors, and a Healthy at Home Initiative was born. People were advised to stay at home to help slow the spread of the coronavirus, COVID-19. This put a strain on the local and national economy, increased mental health and substance use concerns as well as increasing overall stress issues that can affect general health.
Author: Rachel Gillespie
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Diabetes and obesity rates have begun to soar in recent years in Kentucky, with public health professionals estimating one in seven adults in the state suffer from Type II diabetes. Currently, this sets Kentucky 3.2% above the national average at 13.7% and 10.5% respectively, while an additional 1.1 million Kentuckians have undiagnosed or diagnosed prediabetes, putting them at greater risk for developing Type II diabetes. The UK Family Consumer Sciences Cooperative Extension has partnered with t
Author: Joann Lianekhammy
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
FCS Cooperative Extension was awarded a CDC-1809 High Obesity Prevention grant as of September 30, 2018. The 5-year project focuses on one of six counties participating in previous CDC grant work, where adult obesity remains above 40%--Martin County. A goal of the current grant is to increase access to healthy foods, in an effort to reduce obesity. Martin County faces numerous challenges related to food insecurity, food deserts, lack of access to clean water, and lack of walkable communities. Th
Author: Christy Stearns
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
COVID-19 changed the manner in which Extension staff served communities. In an effort to continue to provide educational programming and promote family engagement, the Clinton County Cooperative Extension Service provided weekly grab and go Extension at Home Kits filled with educational activities that were available for pick up on the porch of the office. A total of 750 kits were distributed from March-June. Extension at Home Kits provided hands-on learning activities for youth and adults and i
Author: Tracy Cowles
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services statistics indicate 28% of Americans age six and over are physically inactive, and spend more than 7.5 hours in front of a screen daily. HHS.gov also indicates, “Empty calories from added sugars and solid fats contribute to 40% of total daily calories for 2–18 year olds and half of these empty calories come from six sources: soda, fruit drinks, dairy desserts, grain desserts, pizza, and whole milk.” To address these i
Author: Heather Cheek
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Time together as a family was hard to find before the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has given families a blessing in disguise as they now are spending a lot of time together. During the healthy at home period, many holidays passed including St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, and even Mother’s and Father’s Day. In an effort to support families during Mother’s and Father’s Day, the Mason County FCS Agent put together Programs On The Go to promote family time at home. The Mo
Author: Alyssa Cox
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
On March 6, 2020, it was reported that the first case of the novel coronavirus had been confirmed in Kentucky. As the state began to shut down, Extension efforts and outreach stepped up. When we started transitioning to this new “normal,” the Wolfe County Extension Office sought out new and innovative ways to reach the needs of our clientele while they were #HealthyAtHome.In response to this issue, Wolfe County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent put together “grab and go&
Author: Courtney Luecking
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The COVID-19 pandemic turned the world as we knew it upside down. Caregivers of young children were particularly vulnerable because of rapid shifts in caregiving and educational responsibilities that likely occurred within the context of other evolving professional and personal obligations. Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Agents at the University of Kentucky remained an instrumental resource for families with young children by adapting and continuing to respond to the most pressing needs.&nbs
Author: Ashley Board
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In the middle of March 2020, many businesses, restaurants, and schools in Kentucky closed to in-person traffic because of a global pandemic. Families and community members were encouraged to stay home except for essential business and items. Families were suddenly working from home, keeping up with non-traditional school instruction for their children, maintaining social distancing when in public, trying to avoid the public, and running a
Author: Joan Bowling
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Teenagers in limited resource families are faced with nonacademic barriers to learning that may carry over into adulthood impacting future success unless programs are in place to assist in the transition. In a continuing joint effort to address these barriers the Kenton County Family and Consumer Sciences agent and the Youth Service Center coordinator at a local high school have partnered to offer monthly programs throughout the school year for a group of 11 referred students. The program
Author: Danielle Barrett
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
According to County Health Rankings and Roadmaps, McCreary County ranks 120 of 120 Kentucky counties in health behaviors. The report states the county adult obesity rate is 40% and the level of physical inactivity is 39%. Obese individuals are at an increased risk for many chronic health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some types of cancers. Increased consumption of unhealthy food, stress, and a built environment that divides the communities and makes it difficu
Author: Hazel Jackson
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Social distancing measures during the Covid 19 pandemic has caused Extension Agents to need new ways to reach families with educational information. The Rockcastle County Extension FCS program has made 'Pick up and Go Program bags' to reach families with needed educatonal resources. Starting April 1, at least one "Go Bag" was assembled and distributed each week. Most weeks, an adult and a youth bag was assembled. Due to the popularity of the bags, the
Author: Lora Davidson
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Low levels of physical activity, unhealthy nutrition, and poor mental health are all determinants of several chronic diseases. These behaviors are now considered major public health concerns and require effective behavior change interventions. Fit Blue is a community-based campaign to increase physical activity and health awareness in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Building physical activity into the day does not require special equipment or a certain location. As participants take part in Fit Bl
Author: Tiffany Bolinger
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In March of 2020 COVID-19 hit fast and furiously shutting down businesses and making social isolation necessary. The amount of information coming out through all media outlets was often overwhelming and unclear. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service has always taken pride in being a reliable source of research-based information and 2020 has been no exception. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension service quickly addressed the need to provide timely educational mater
Author: Rita Stewart
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In January, this Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, along with the Nutrition Education Program Assistant and the Program Assistant initiated the Healthy Heart Jump Start 2020 program. The goal of the program was to empower participants to make healthy lifestyle practice changes in order to improve their overall health and well-being. Program emphasis included nutrition, physical activity, stress management and mindfulness. Pre-program health screenings for participants were sponsored and
Author: Valerie Holland
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Statistics continue to show the West Louisville population consumes too much fat, salt, and sugar and too little high fiber fruits, vegetables and whole grains. For this population to maintain optimal health, they must have healthy diets. To assist in this need, the Jefferson County Extension Service collaborated with Dare to Care to provide the nutrition portion of the Cooking Matters program at four of their West Louisville sites. The Family & Consumer Sciences agent presented three progra
Author: Valerie Holland
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Research is starting to show a clear link between increased sugar consumption and poor health outcomes such as being overweight, obesity, and developing diabetes. The recommendation is that no more than 10 percent of daily calories should come from sugar. On average, almost 20 percent of the calories in a typical American adult’s diet comes from sugar and sweeteners, with the most common sources being beverages, snacks, and sweets. In addition, the arrival of several non-nutritive swe
Author: Valerie Holland
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Jefferson County Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent collaborated with KEHA leaders to offer the Healthy Homemakers series to a total of 40 participants. 90 percent of participants identified terms related to diabetes. 93 percent of participants examined the different types of diabetes. 93 percent of participants discussed the various ways to manage diabetes and went for a 10-minute walk. A follow-up evaluation revealed that 75 percent of participants have taken steps to minimize risk o
Author: Rachael Price
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
In March of 2020 the COVID-19 pandemic forced new regulations on individuals and businesses forcing many families and Individuals to increase their time at home and away from others. We felt it was important that we find new and exciting ways to continue to reach clientele and serve the community in Grant County. The Grant County Family and Consumer Science Program offered several new programs, and adapted others to continue to serve the residents of Grant County.Remote programming t
Author: Natalie Jones
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
The Cooperative Extension Service (CES) infrastructure and subject matter expertise are well suited for harnessing the autonomy and self-sufficiency commonly found in rural communities to create healthier people and environments through policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) approaches. Similar to public health nutritionists, CES agents, specifically Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) agents and program assistants, are accustomed to providing direct education activities for individuals,
Author: Natalie Jones
Major Program: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices (general)
Healthy eating in childhood and adolescence is important for proper growth and development and to prevent various health conditions. Consuming the recommended amount of vegetables each day is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, and obesity. This equals 2 to 3 cups of vegetables a day, depending on age and gender. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 6.3% of adults in Kentucky meet the daily vegetable intake recommendations and mo
