Shelby County CES

County Emphasis:

Encouraging Health, Well Being, and Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Concentration 1:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access

Concentration 2:

Health and Wellbeing

Concentration 3:

Family and Youth Development

Concentration 4:

Mental Health and Well-Being

Situation:

Food Safety, Quality and Access

It is proven that people who have access to and consume their daily dietary requirements of fresh fruits and vegetables are less likely to suffer from chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease and have an increased quality of life. Having the knowledge and skills to prepare or preserve fresh fruits and vegetables presents an additional barrier beyond obtaining fresh food access.

With the goal of increasing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) aims to increase access to fresh food, as well as increase knowledge and awareness of how to select, store, safely prepare, process, and preserve these foods. CES prioritizes statewide partnership development that helps us meet our goals and objectives. We collaborate with statewide agencies including Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Community Farm Alliance, KY Farm to School Network, Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife and others to help build statewide systems that increase access and usage of fresh fruits and vegetables. These programs benefit Kentuckians because they support food access policy, systems and environmental changes in communities and across the state. They increase knowledge of how to grow, prepare, and preserve fresh fruits and vegetables.

Youth Focus

Kentucky faces significant health and economic challenges, with five of the top ten causes of death being nutrition-related. According to the Obesity Action Coalition the cost of obesity reached $36.31 billion. The rapidly changing social and economic landscape underscores the need for a healthy, productive, and engaged young people to contribute to a prepared workforce and engaged community to tackle these challenges. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System's 2023 Community Needs Assessment identifies critical priorities, including access to affordable nutritious food, reducing youth obesity through improved nutrition and exercise, and enhancing youth wellbeing through effective coping strategies. Kentucky 4-H plays a crucial role in addressing these needs by equipping young people with essential skills in nutrition, culinary arts, financial education, and entrepreneurship. 69% of youth reported that they learned about healthy food choices in 4-H. 4-H youth report an increase in preparing meals together as a family, increase in meals eaten as a family, and confidence in the kitchen. These programs not only foster healthier, more resilient individuals, but also contribute to the development of engaged citizens prepared to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Health and Well Being

 The opportunities and resources available to support the health and well-being of adults and families in Kentucky vary widely. Disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure contribute to higher rates of chronic health conditions and lower quality of life. Prevention, early detection, and care are essential to maintain and/or improve quality of life. Yet, this burden is often placed on individuals to navigate the

healthcare system and traditional public health entities. Additionally, for decades, little attention has been given to the external factors that undoubtedly affect health such as access to care, education, nutritious foods, and safe physical spaces. These same issues and concerns were echoed throughout the 2023 UK Cooperative Extension Community Assessment. Within the top 15 priority issues identified by Kentuckians, “ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable nutritious foods” was #4 and “reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise” was #8. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, UK Extension aims to become a critical public health partner for addressing disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure through comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness programming that supports adult physical health and well-being.

Youth Focus

Thriving youth are healthy, productive, and engaged (Arnold, 2024). According to Kentucky Kids Count Database (AECF, 2023) 41% of Kentucky teenagers are obese or overweight. Youth are also experiencing alarming levels of negativity about themselves, their confidence in the future, and their ability to find contentment in life (McKinsey & Company, 2022). 30% of youth are chronically absent (United States Department of Education, 2024). The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Needs Assessment (2024) identified key priorities issues related to health and wellbeing as need for improved access to mental health and wellbeing resources, reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise, minimizing bullying and/or school violence. To address these issues, Kentucky 4-H creates opportunities for youth in the five domains of physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual health and well-being.

 

Family and Youth Development

Family and Youth Development programming is essential for fostering healthy, supportive environments where both children and adults can thrive. By offering structured activities and educational workshops, UK Extension aims to build strong family bonds equipping young people and older adults with critical life skills. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, our programming also addresses social and emotional needs throughout the lifespan, promoting resilience and positive relationships which are two of the key concerns identified in the top 15 needs of Kentucky’s statewide needs assessment. Investing in such programs can prevent future challenges by supporting early intervention and personal growth. Ultimately, these initiatives contribute to the well-being of individuals and the stability of communities, making them a vital component of social development.

Mental Health and Well Being

More than ever before, people are feeling the burden of stress on their wellbeing. More than 1 in 5 adults in the United States lives with a mental illness; in Kentucky, 43% of adults report signs or symptoms of anxiety or depression across their lifespan. At the same time, suicide is a leading cause of preventable death in Kentucky for individuals aged 10-34, and those over the age of 59.

Concern over the state of mental health and access to care was echoed in the Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, where respondents listed “improved access to mental health and wellbeing resources” as one of the top 6 priority issues. Kentuckians are aware of their need for knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to a mental health challenge, whether it be their own or to help someone else, and the ability to advocate for more mental health resources in all areas of the state.

Cooperative Extension is poised with the research and evidence-based resources needed to serve as a beacon of hope in times of distress through our ability to help overcome stigma, connect people to care, and amplify the voices of many to advocate for better quality of life for all.

Youth Focus

Kentucky’s youth population deserves safe and nurturing environments that foster their growth and wellbeing. Unfortunately, mental health challenges affect a significant portion of our youth, with 17% of those aged 6-17 experiencing mental health disorders, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (2023), and only 50% receiving treatment. The impact is profound, with one person in the U.S. dying by suicide every 11 minutes, and in Kentucky alone, 800 lives were lost to suicide in 2022. Recognizing the urgency, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service’s 2019 and 2023 statewide programming issue surveys highlighted mental health and wellbeing as priority areas. Nationally, 45% of 4-H participants reported high stress in a 2023 survey by 4-H.org. The University of Kentucky Community Needs Assessment (2023) indicates priorities of improve access to mental health and wellbeing resources, minimizing bullying and/or school violence, stronger parenting and relationship-building skills, and social, emotional, and/or behavioral education for adults working with youth. To address these concerns, the 4-H Program provides evidence-based educational programs focused on positive mental health and self-care, aiming to empower youth with decision-making and critical thinking skills, fostering resilience and overall wellbeing. By emphasizing mental health and offering targeted educational initiatives, we can create a brighter future for Kentucky’s youth.

County Situation:

Shelby County faces significant health and wellbeing challenges, including poor access to nutritious foods, high rates of obesity, and mental health issues. To address these, the Shelby County Cooperative Extension Service (CES) promotes food safety, quality, and access through partnerships with local agencies to increase fresh food availability and educate on proper food handling, preparation, and preservation. CES also focuses on youth health, including nutrition education, physical activity, and mental health support through programs like 4-H, which teaches skills in cooking, financial literacy, and wellness.

Mental health is a critical concern, with many adults and youth in Shelby County facing anxiety, depression, and a lack of resources for care. CES is committed to improving access to mental health resources and providing education to recognize and respond to mental health challenges. They also promote resilience, stress management, and positive relationships through family and youth development programs.

Additionally, family and youth development initiatives aim to strengthen family bonds and promote emotional and social well-being. CES's work helps combat the state’s health disparities and supports the development of healthy, engaged youth who are better prepared to contribute to their communities.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Adult

1. Individuals and families of all incomes levels have access to affordable and nutritious foods
2. Family farms become economically viable.
3. Kentucky’s local food and agriculture industry are thriving.
4. Decrease in the number of individuals with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease.
5. More people routinely meet the guidelines for the consumption of (locally-grown) fresh fruits and vegetables.
6. Reduced incidence of mental health crises and suicide.
7. Increased access to mental health care and resources for all.
8. Increased meaningful social connections.
9. Increased support network.
10. Increased kindergarten readiness rates.
11. Increased caregiver preparation.
12. Improved quality of family life.
13. Routinely meeting guidelines and recommendations for health behaviors that promote wellness and quality of life.
14. Community environments that equitably support health-promoting behaviors where people live, learn, work, and play.
15. Increased availability and accessibility to community-based health resources.
16. Reduced rate and burden of non-communicable chronic diseases and injury.
17. Decreased health disparity prevalence.
18. Improved quality of life.

 Youth

1. Kentucky 4-H members report a reduced number of youth that are considering suicide.  
2. Increased number of 4-Hers who pursue mental health & well-being employment.  
3. Youth will increase contributions to their communities through applying critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication learning in 4-H Health and Well Being.
4. Kentucky 4-H members report decreased obesity.    
5. Increased number of 4-Hers who pursue employment in the health and wellbeing field. 
6. Youth will increase contributions to their communities through applying critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication learning in the 4-H Health and Well-Being Core Content Area.
7. Youth report reduced risk for poor health, developmental delays, obesity, and malnutrition.    
8. Youth increase educational outcomes.  
9. Youth decrease poor overall health. 

Intermediate Outcomes:

Adult

1. Increase and/or strengthen statewide and regional partnership to address community food system issues.
2. Increased production of Kentucky-grown food and increased market opportunities for those products.
3. Increase in the number of farmers’ markets and local food retailers that accept one or more food benefits as payment.
4. Improved dietary habits through: consumption of more fruits and vegetables, a variety of proteins and the number of meals prepared at home.
5. Increased number of entrepreneurial food businesses.
6. Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy community, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together.
7. Enhanced community partnership that equitably support family health (e.g., FRYSC, Health Depart., DAIL, AAA,)
8. Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family, community, and occupational health and safety
9. Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health or safety issues
10. Increased organizational/site/community support for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health or safety issues
11. Increased use of de-stigmatized language 
12. Increased use of self-care and other coping strategies 
13. Increased advocacy for mental health and wellbeing resources 
14. Increased partnerships (number or strength) to address mental health and wellbeing issues within the community

 Youth

1. Youth will practice making wise nutrition choices.  
2. Youth will practice food safety.  
3. Youth will access nutritious foods.  
4. Youth will prepare nutritious foods.  
5. Youth will eat a variety of healthy foods daily. 
6. 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.   
7. Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to health and well-being among 4-Hers.  
8. 4-H members will increase physical activity. 
9. 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.    
10. Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to mental health and wellbeing among 4-Hers.

Initial Outcomes:

Adult

1. Increased awareness of and use of Food Connection Programs: Value Chain Coordinators, TFC Learning Kitchen, and Cultivate KY resources. 
2. Increased awareness of Extension resources and programs supporting food access.
3. Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. 
4. Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops.
5. Increased awareness and accessibility of community resources available to access fresh foods.
6. Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, healthy eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.).
7. Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern
8. Increased ability to use de-stigmatized language 
9. Increased knowledge of self-care and other coping strategies
10. Increased knowledge of mental health and well-being resources (interpersonal and community-based)
11. Increased knowledge about nurturing parenting and caregiving across the life span. 
12. Increased awareness of community resources to support healthy families.
13. Increased confidence making decisions related to parenting and caregiving.
14. Increased confidence and motivation to reduce loneliness and social isolation.
15. Improved skills related to nurturing parenting and caregiver support
16. Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., reading to your child, spending time together, self-care, caregiver preparation, active living).
17. Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors.
18. Increased awareness of community resources to support health-promoting behaviors.
19. Increased confidence in making decisions related to health-promoting behaviors.
20. Improved skills related to health-promoting behaviors

 Youth

1. Increased knowledge of positive mental health practices  
2. Increased knowledge and awareness of healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
3. Improved attitudes and beliefs towards healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
4. Increased knowledge of general wellness practices 
5. Youth will learn how to make wise nutrition choices.  
6. Youth will learn the importance of food safety.  
7. Youth learn how to access nutritious foods.  
8. Youth will learn how to prepare nutritious foods.  
9. Youth will aspire to eat a variety of healthy foods daily.
10. Increased knowledge of positive mental health practices  
11. Increased knowledge and awareness of healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
12. Improved attitudes and beliefs towards healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
13. Increased knowledge of general wellness practices

Evaluation:

Adult

Outcome: Increased awareness of and use of Extension Resources related to food safety and marketing. (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of farms or food businesses who retained or expanded market opportunities and/or sales including locally produced foods. 
2. Number of individuals who?attended certificate-based training?on food safety, food preservation, food processing, liability, and/or marketing. (This includes: PBPT, Produce Safety Alliance Training, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, Value Chain Coordination Services Training, Farmers Market Sampling, Home-based Microprocessing….). 
3. Number of people who?used Extension resources and/or services for pricing and/or marketing local foods (examples of services include: Kentucky Nutrition Education Program/KYNEP, PlateEatMove.com, Plate It Up Kentucky Proud!, Cook Wild Kentucky, Kentucky Value Chain Coordinators, Cultivate Kentucky Partnership, etc.). 
4. Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 

Method: Agent Tool level from The Food Connection (being developed); 

Timeline: Annual: Food System Impact Survey (federal fiscal year); The Food Connection (calendar year); HBM (annual calendar year)

Outcome: Increased awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 
2. Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
3. Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources. 
4. Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.  

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation; the Learning Kitchen Participant follow-up eval.

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

Outcome: Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.  
2. Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting). 

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation;

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

Outcome: Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops. (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of farms or food businesses who retained or expanded market opportunities and/or sales including locally produced foods. 
2. Number of individuals who?attended certificate-based training?on food safety, food preservation, food processing, liability, and/or marketing. (This includes: PBPT, Produce Safety Alliance Training, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, Value Chain Coordination Services Training, Farmers Market Sampling, Home-based Microprocessing….). 

Method: HBM Post-Workshop Evaluation

Timeline: Annual (calendar year)

Outcome: Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, health eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.). (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
2. Number of individuals who were introduced to health food access points (e.g. farmers markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.

Method: Food Systems Impact Survey, planeatmove.com website data, NEP resources distributed;

Timeline: Annual, fiscal year (Food Systems Impact Survey);

 

Outcome: Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors (e.g., how to prepare nutritious foods, benefits of routine vaccinations/screenings) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Observation by Agent or self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration 

Outcome: Increased confidence and motivation to engage in health-promoting behaviors (e.g. add physical activity, consume more nutritious foods, receive vaccination or screen) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow up evaluation

Outcome: Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g. vaccinations, screenings, preparation/consumption of nutritious foods, active living, pest prevention) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported intentions to implement a behavior learned from a health and well-being program

Method: Demonstration or self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family and community health (e.g., physical activity, consuming nutritious foods, routine vaccinations and screenings) (intermediate)

Indicator: 

Number of physical activity minutes recorded by a participant

Number of participants who reported consuming more nutritious foods and/or beverages

Number of participants who reported a change in a health-promoting behavior as a result of participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture change over time

Outcome: Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health issues (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of community partners (community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals) worked with to offer health and well-being programming in the community

Method: Agent record of community partnerships utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing; Each partnership should be reported once per reporting period

Outcome: Increased organizational/site/community supports for health-promoting behaviors (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of volunteers who supported health and well-being programming in the community

Method: Agent record of volunteers utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing: Each volunteer should be reported once per reporting period

Outcome: Increased organizational/site/community supports for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health and safety issues (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of projects or initiatives working to improve a community health or safety issue

Method: Documentation (direct observation, photo, repeated survey) or interviews

Timeline: Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress

Outcome: Increased intentions to engage in nurturing parenting and caregiver support (e.g., spending more quality time together, engaging in meaningful talk) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported they intend/plan to increase time spent nurturing and/or caregiving.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Enhanced community partnerships that equitably support family health (e.g., FRYSC, Health Dept., etc.) (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported seeking support from local community organizations and/or its individual member.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome: Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy communication, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together. (intermediate)

Indicator: 

1. Number of participants who reported they enhanced healthy relationships.
2. Number of participants who reported that they extended any type of support to another parent, grandparent, older adult, or relative raising a child.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress.

 

Outcome: Increased partnerships (number or strength) to address mental health and well-being issues within the community

Indicator: Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and well-being in the community.

Method: Agent record of community partnerships utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing; Each partnership should be reported once per reporting interval

Outcome: Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns.

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered immediately after a program

Outcome: Increased knowledge and use of self-care and other coping strategies

Indicator: Number of participants who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and well-being.

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered immediately after a program

Outcome: Increased knowledge and advocacy of mental health and well-being resources (interpersonal and community-based)

Indicator: Number of participants who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and well-being in their community

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered immediately after a program

 

Youth

Outcome: Short Term  

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they learned the difference between healthy and unhealthy snacks. 
2. Number of youth who reported that they learned about safe food handling and preparation.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they learned about kitchen safety.  
4. Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of egg and/or poultry food safety practices.
5. Number of youth who demonstrated/reported improved egg and/or poultry cooking skills.

Method: Evaluation Provided by Animal Food Sciences Department

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Outcome: Medium Term  

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they applied skills and/or knowledge to prepare healthy snacks for self or family.  
2. Number of youth who reported that they practiced safe food handling and preparation.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they practiced kitchen safety. 
4. Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a Family and Consumer Sciences Project. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family and Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: End of the program year

Outcome: Long Term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family and Consumer Sciences: Survey 

Timeline: 1 or more years  

 

Outcome: Short Term

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in health or wellbeing initiatives in their community. 
2. Number of youth who reported that they understand the importance of habits or choices that promote health and wellbeing.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they learned ways to be physically active  
4. Number of youth who reported that they learned how physical activity contributes to overall health 
5. Number of youth who reported that they learned how food impacts their overall health. 
6. Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in health and wellbeing that fits their interest.  

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey

Timeline: Immediately after program/event 

Outcome: Medium Term

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they have used knowledge and/or skills learned in health and wellbeing programs to complete a project.   
2. Number of youth who reported that they have used nutrition as a way to improve their overall health.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in health and wellbeing based on their interests. 

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey 

Timeline: End of Club/Program Year 

Outcome: Long Term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey

Timeline: 1 or more years

 

Outcome: Short Term 

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.
2. Number of youth who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.
3. Number of youth who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Immediately post-program

Outcome: Medium Term 

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who adopted self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.
2. Number of youth who adopted strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.
3. Number of youth who reported behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: 3-6 Months post-program 

Outcome: Long Term 

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.

Method: Survey or Interview 

Timeline: 1+ years 

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: 4-H School Clubs
Project or Activity: Nutrition Program
Content or Curriculum: 4-H Health Curriculum, My Plate Resources, 4-H Cooking Curriculum
Inputs: Curriculum
Date: Annual, March

Audience: 4-H Campers
Project or Activity: Physical Activity Opportunities, Outdoor Recreation
Content or Curriculum: 4-H Health Curriculum, 4-H Camp Programming
Inputs: Outdoor recreation opportunities
Timeline: June or July 2026

Audience: 4-H Youth
Project or Activity: Food-A-Rama including nutrition/cooking demo
Content or Curriculum: 4-H Health Curriculum, 4-H Cooking Curriculum, My Plate Resources
Inputs: Curriculum, demo supplies
Date: July 2026

Audience: 4-H Members
Project or Activity: 4-H Culinary Club
Content or Curriculum: 4-H Health Curriculum, 4-H Cooking Curriculum
Inputs: 4-H Health Curriculum, 4-H Cooking Curriculum, My Plate Resources, volunteers
Date: Monthly

Audience: Families
Project or Activity: Cook Together, Eat Together
Content or Curriculum: FCS/NEP Curriculum, 4-H Cooking Curriculum
Inputs: FCS Curriculum, 4-H Cooking Curriculum, My Plate Resources, volunteers
Date: Quarterly

Audience: Farmers Market Participants
Project or Activity: Farmers Market Demos and/or sharing educational publications
Content or Curriculum: FCS publications, NEP Publications, recipes, Victory Garden information
Inputs: CES publications, Planeatmove, NEP recipe cards, and Plate It Up recipes
Date: Annual, Summer and Fall

Audience: General Public
Project or Activity: Shelby County Pop-up Farmer’s Markets
Content or Curriculum: Kentucky Proud, increasing awareness of local foods
Inputs: North Central District Health Department, Rooted in Shelby Members and local farmers/producers, Extension and NEP Publications and Recipes
Date: Annual, Summer

Audience: Adults 55 and older
Project or Activity: Driver Safety Program
Content or Curriculum: AARP Smart Driver Programs
Inputs: AARP Volunteer Instructor, booklets, certificates
Date: Bi-Annual

Audience: Adults and Youth
Project or Activity: First Saturday Walk About
Content or Curriculum: Planned physical activity - group walk opportunity
Inputs: Family Activity Center location
Date: First Saturday of each month

Audience: Adults
Project or Activity: Red Heart Luncheon
Content or Curriculum: Heart Health Speaker, Heart Health Lunch, FCS publications, UK Health Care Publications, American Heart Association materials, American Diabetes Association materials
Inputs: Sponsors, community partners, publications
Date: Annually, First Friday in February

Audience: Adults and Youth
Project or Activity: Walking Kentucky
Content or Curriculum: Get Moving Kentucky, Fit Blue, Families on the Move: A Family Walking Program
Inputs: Publications and forms, newsletters, community partners
Date: May-June 2026

Audience: Women over 50
Project or Activity: Annual Ovarian Cancer Awareness Project/Screening
Content or Curriculum: Ovarian Cancer Screening at UK, Ovarian Cancer information
Inputs: UK Ovarian Cancer Screening Techs and location, Ovarian Cancer Information
Date: November 2025, May 2026

Audience: Senior Citizens
Project or Activity: Senior Citizen Nutrition Programs
Content or Curriculum: USDA Choose My Plate, Plate It Up recipes, various nutrition topics, Seasoned, Healthy Choices for Everyone Newsletter, Food and Nutrition Calendar
Inputs: FCS publications, USDA Choose My Plate, Plate It Up recipes, Senior Nutrition and Health News
Date: Monthly

Audience: Head Start and Limited Resource Families
Project or Activity: Nutrition for Preschool Families; Community Baby Shower; Headstart Classroom Activities
Content or Curriculum: Chop Chop, LEAP and other Nutrition Content
Inputs: FCS publications, SNAP-ed, USDA Choose My Plate and Spanish materials, LEAP
Date: Annual, Fall and Spring

Audience: Families at Food Distribution Site
Project or Activity: Educational Publications and/or Monthly Handouts at Food Distribution Site
Content or Curriculum: Assorted nutrition topics; recipes
Inputs: Plate It Up recipes, FCS publications, NEP Resources, USDA Choose My Plate
Date: Monthly

Audience: Youth and Adults, Families, Seniors, Disabled
Project or Activity: Educational Materials and Healthy Choice Series at Operation Care, A Loving Choice (ALC) Pregnancy Resource Center, Awake Ministries Recovery Center, Women’s Renaissance Center, Whitney Young Job Corps Center, Transitional Housing, Shelby House, Centerstone
Content or Curriculum: Various nutrition topics; recipes, Healthy Choices for Everybody
Inputs: Plate It Up recipes, FCS publications, SNAP ED, Choose My Plate, Healthy Choice Curriculum
Date: Bi-Monthly or series of seven weekly programs, starting August 2025

Audience: Individuals/Families
Project or Activity: Food Safety & Food Preservation Classes
Content or Curriculum: UK-CES Food Preservation Publications, National Center for Home Food Preservation Information
Inputs: FCS Publications; So Easy to Preserve, Ball Blue Book, canning jars
Date: Annual, Summer

Audience: Adults
Project or Activity: Plate It Up! Cooking Club
Content or Curriculum: Plate It Up recipes, FCS publications
Inputs: Pride of Kentucky, CES publications, Plate It Up recipes, members' choices
Date: Monthly, August – May

Audience: Adults
Project or Activity: Soup Sharing
Content or Curriculum: Plate It Up recipes, FCS publications, Foods and Nutrition Calendar
Inputs: Foods and Nutrition Calendar, CES publications, Plate It Up recipes, members' choices, participants' soups
Date: Annual, January

Audience: After School Care/Limited Resource Youth
Project or Activity: Nutrition Programs – USDA, LEAP K-3rd Professor Popcorn 4-6th grade, Teen Cuisine 7-12th grade
Content or Curriculum: SNAP Series of Youth Classes
Inputs: SNAP materials, USDA My Plate Yummy
Date: Weekly or Monthly, Starting August 2025

Audience: Preschool and Elementary School-Age children and/or Families
Project or Activity: Hands-On "Healthy Choices"
Content or Curriculum: LEAP - K-2, Professor Popcorn 4-6th grade, Teen Cuisine 7-12th grade
Inputs: Choose My Plate, USDA and CES publications
Date: Bi-annual or more often as scheduled by FRYSCs, Starting August 2025

Evaluation:

Adult

Outcome: Increased awareness of and use of Extension Resources related to food safety and marketing. (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of farms or food businesses who retained or expanded market opportunities and/or sales including locally produced foods. 
2. Number of individuals who?attended certificate-based training?on food safety, food preservation, food processing, liability, and/or marketing. (This includes: PBPT, Produce Safety Alliance Training, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, Value Chain Coordination Services Training, Farmers Market Sampling, Home-based Microprocessing….). 
3. Number of people who?used Extension resources and/or services for pricing and/or marketing local foods (examples of services include: Kentucky Nutrition Education Program/KYNEP, PlateEatMove.com, Plate It Up Kentucky Proud!, Cook Wild Kentucky, Kentucky Value Chain Coordinators, Cultivate Kentucky Partnership, etc.). 
4. Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 

Method: Agent Tool level from The Food Connection (being developed); 

Timeline: Annual: Food System Impact Survey (federal fiscal year); The Food Connection (calendar year); HBM (annual calendar year)

Outcome: Increased awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 
2. Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
3. Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources. 
4. Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.  

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation; the Learning Kitchen Participant follow-up eval.

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

Outcome: Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.  
2. Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting). 

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation;

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

Outcome: Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops. (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of farms or food businesses who retained or expanded market opportunities and/or sales including locally produced foods. 
2. Number of individuals who?attended certificate-based training?on food safety, food preservation, food processing, liability, and/or marketing. (This includes: PBPT, Produce Safety Alliance Training, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, Value Chain Coordination Services Training, Farmers Market Sampling, Home-based Microprocessing….). 

Method: HBM Post-Workshop Evaluation

Timeline: Annual (calendar year)

Outcome: Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, health eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.). (initial)

Indicator: 

1. Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
2. Number of individuals who were introduced to health food access points (e.g. farmers markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.

Method: Food Systems Impact Survey, planeatmove.com website data, NEP resources distributed;

Timeline: Annual, fiscal year (Food Systems Impact Survey);

 

Outcome: Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors (e.g., how to prepare nutritious foods, benefits of routine vaccinations/screenings) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Observation by Agent or self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration 

Outcome: Increased confidence and motivation to engage in health-promoting behaviors (e.g. add physical activity, consume more nutritious foods, receive vaccination or screen) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow up evaluation

Outcome: Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g. vaccinations, screenings, preparation/consumption of nutritious foods, active living, pest prevention) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported intentions to implement a behavior learned from a health and well-being program

Method: Demonstration or self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family and community health (e.g., physical activity, consuming nutritious foods, routine vaccinations and screenings) (intermediate)

Indicator: 

Number of physical activity minutes recorded by a participant

Number of participants who reported consuming more nutritious foods and/or beverages

Number of participants who reported a change in a health-promoting behavior as a result of participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture change over time

Outcome: Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health issues (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of community partners (community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals) worked with to offer health and well-being programming in the community

Method: Agent record of community partnerships utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing; Each partnership should be reported once per reporting period

Outcome: Increased organizational/site/community supports for health-promoting behaviors (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of volunteers who supported health and well-being programming in the community

Method: Agent record of volunteers utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing: Each volunteer should be reported once per reporting period

Outcome: Increased organizational/site/community supports for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health and safety issues (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of projects or initiatives working to improve a community health or safety issue

Method: Documentation (direct observation, photo, repeated survey) or interviews

Timeline: Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress

Outcome: Increased intentions to engage in nurturing parenting and caregiver support (e.g., spending more quality time together, engaging in meaningful talk) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported they intend/plan to increase time spent nurturing and/or caregiving.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Enhanced community partnerships that equitably support family health (e.g., FRYSC, Health Dept., etc.) (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported seeking support from local community organizations and/or its individual member.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome: Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy communication, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together. (intermediate)

Indicator: 

1. Number of participants who reported they enhanced healthy relationships.
2. Number of participants who reported that they extended any type of support to another parent, grandparent, older adult, or relative raising a child.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress.

 

Outcome: Increased partnerships (number or strength) to address mental health and well-being issues within the community

Indicator: Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and well-being in the community.

Method: Agent record of community partnerships utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing; Each partnership should be reported once per reporting interval

Outcome: Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns.

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered immediately after a program

Outcome: Increased knowledge and use of self-care and other coping strategies

Indicator: Number of participants who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and well-being.

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered immediately after a program

Outcome: Increased knowledge and advocacy of mental health and well-being resources (interpersonal and community-based)

Indicator: Number of participants who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and well-being in their community

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered immediately after a program

 

Youth

Outcome: Short Term  

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they learned the difference between healthy and unhealthy snacks. 
2. Number of youth who reported that they learned about safe food handling and preparation.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they learned about kitchen safety.  
4. Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of egg and/or poultry food safety practices.
5. Number of youth who demonstrated/reported improved egg and/or poultry cooking skills.

Method: Evaluation Provided by Animal Food Sciences Department

Timeline: Immediate Post Program

Outcome: Medium Term  

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they applied skills and/or knowledge to prepare healthy snacks for self or family.  
2. Number of youth who reported that they practiced safe food handling and preparation.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they practiced kitchen safety. 
4. Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a Family and Consumer Sciences Project. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family and Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: End of the program year

Outcome: Long Term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family and Consumer Sciences: Survey 

Timeline: 1 or more years  

 

Outcome: Short Term

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in health or wellbeing initiatives in their community. 
2. Number of youth who reported that they understand the importance of habits or choices that promote health and wellbeing.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they learned ways to be physically active  
4. Number of youth who reported that they learned how physical activity contributes to overall health 
5. Number of youth who reported that they learned how food impacts their overall health. 
6. Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in health and wellbeing that fits their interest.  

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey

Timeline: Immediately after program/event 

Outcome: Medium Term

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they have used knowledge and/or skills learned in health and wellbeing programs to complete a project.   
2. Number of youth who reported that they have used nutrition as a way to improve their overall health.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in health and wellbeing based on their interests. 

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey 

Timeline: End of Club/Program Year 

Outcome: Long Term

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey

Timeline: 1 or more years

 

Outcome: Short Term 

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.
2. Number of youth who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.
3. Number of youth who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Immediately post-program

Outcome: Medium Term 

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who adopted self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.
2. Number of youth who adopted strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.
3. Number of youth who reported behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: 3-6 Months post-program 

Outcome: Long Term 

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.

Method: Survey or Interview 

Timeline: 1+ years