Henderson County CES

County Emphasis:

Safe Communities

Concentration 1:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Concentration 2:

Substance Use Prevention and Recovery

Concentration 3:

Mental Health and Well-Being

Situation:

Kentucky’s communities face unique challenges that require enhancing connectivity and resilience through digital access, social cohesion, and well-designed public spaces. Broadband access remains critical, particularly in rural areas where digital connectivity gaps hinder economic and educational opportunities. The 2023 Community Needs Assessment identified improved broadband and digital literacy as top priorities for enhancing community resilience.

Extension’s connectivity and resilience efforts focus on supporting local economies and helping communities recover from economic shifts and natural disasters (CEDIK, 2024). By promoting digital literacy, educating on safe and vibrant outdoor spaces, and implementing place-based disaster preparedness programs, Extension strengthens community connections and economic sustainability. These initiatives benefit residents, businesses, and local governments, fostering stronger, more resilient communities equipped to face future challenges.

Youth Focus

In today’s rapidly evolving world, youth are and can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of connected and resilient communities. Young people are leveraging technology and social networks to foster strong, supportive relationships that transcend geographical boundaries. They are actively engaged in community-building activities, promoting access to opportunity, and driving change. By participating in local and global initiatives, they are not only enhancing their own resilience but also contributing to the overall strength and adaptability of their communities. Their innovative approaches to problem-solving and their commitment to sustainability are essential in addressing the complex challenges of the 21st century. As they continue to collaborate and share knowledge, youth are laying the foundation for a more connected and resilient world. 4-H is committed to providing the resources necessary to promote youth connection in their communities. Thriving youth are healthy, productive, and engaged (Arnold, 2024). Communities that promote the indicators of youth thriving will have more connected, capable, and committed citizens that can critically think through addressing the needs and priorities of their community.

Though substance use and substance use disorder have been pressing social problems for decades, the public health burden and consequence associated with substance use has rapidly worsened in recent years. Drug overdoses have surpassed car accidents as the leading cause of accidental death and overdoses have contributed to a reduction in average life expectancy in the US. Much of the substance use-related morbidity and mortality is a result of a persistent treatment gap. Each year, about 90% of people who need treatment for SUD in Kentucky do not receive it. To address this gap in service provision, more community-level programming is required to meet the complex needs of Kentuckians who use drugs. Cooperative Extension is uniquely positioned, both with deep connections to each Kentucky county and with its transdisciplinary team of specialists, to address the holistic needs of Kentuckians who use drugs including mental health, fair housing, second-chance employment, nutrition and physical health, and much more.

Youth Focus

Substance use and substance use disorder are persistent public health problems in Kentucky. Kentucky youth fare worse than their US counterparts in terms of numerous indicators of drug use and drug-related harm including cigarette and smokeless tobacco use, vaping, alcohol use, and illicit drug use such as opioid and methamphetamine use. Accordingly, the recent University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Needs Assessment (2023) indicated substance use prevention is the primary concern among most Kentucky counties. Nevertheless, few Kentucky communities support prevention efforts that are informed by research. Cooperative Extension is well-positioned with deep collaborative community ties to support evidence-based prevention programming. Such programs may target substance use directly or indirectly by focusing on pertinent risk and protective factors and promoting overall well-being for Kentucky youth.

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:

Henderson County, Kentucky, is confronting several critical challenges that impact the safety and well-being of its residents. Among the most pressing concerns are natural disaster preparedness, home safety—including firearm safety—substance abuse, and mental health. These issues affect both rural and urban populations and have driven the need for targeted programming through the Cooperative Extension Service.  

Natural Disaster Preparedness: 

Henderson County has experienced several natural disasters, including tornadoes, severe weather ice storm, and floods. Notably, in 2025, flooding caused substantial damage, highlighting the need for improved disaster preparedness. The county's natural disaster risk score stands at 32.46%, indicating a moderate risk level.  

Home and Gun Safety: 

With the significant number of households in Henderson owning firearms, the potential for accidental shootings and unauthorized access—especially by children and teens—requires focused educational efforts around proper storage, handling, and firearm responsibility.  

Substance Abuse: 

Substance abuse remains a significant public health issue in Henderson County. In 2022, Kentucky reported 2,135 overdose deaths, with opioids involved in approximately 90% of cases. Substance misuse affects individuals of all age groups, placing a burden on families, schools, healthcare providers, and emergency services. 

Mental Health: 

Mental health is an escalating concern in Henderson County. Residents report an average of 5.4 poor mental health days per month, indicating a significant level of psychological distress. Access to mental health care is limited, with approximately 704 residents for every mental health care provider. Additionally, about 7% of residents lack health insurance, further hindering access to necessary mental health services.  

Extension Programming Response: 

In response to these challenges, the Henderson County Cooperative Extension Service has developed programs focusing on these initiatives working with community partners and program council advisory boards.   

These initiatives aim to enhance the safety and health of Henderson County residents through education and community engagement. 

Long-Term Outcomes:

Adult

• Increased digital access improves economic and educational opportunities.
• Communities recover faster from disasters/economic disruptions
• Sustained investment in public spaces strengthens local economies
• Cultural heritage is preserved and integrated into communities
• Expanded partnerships enhance problem-solving and resource-sharing
• Improved quality of life through connection and civic engagement
• Increased recovery capital
• Reduced adult substance use
• Reduced adult substance use disorder
• Reduced adult overdose fatalities
• Reduced stigma related to adult substance use
• Improved quality of life
• Reduced incidence of mental health crises and suicide
• Increased access to mental health care and resources for all

Youth

• Youth will demonstrate necessary leadership, teamwork, and communication skills needed to be successful in the workplace.? 
• Youth participation in community involvement increases.??? 
• Youth will serve in leadership roles in their community.?? 
• Youth will more effectively communicate, work with others, and contribute to driving change and shaping the future.??
• Improved social and emotional competency
• Reduced youth substance use
• Reduced youth substance use disorder
• Reduced youth overdose fatalities
• Reduced stigma related to youth substance use
• Improved quality of life
• Kentucky 4-H members report a reduced number of youth that are considering suicide.  
• Increased number of 4-Hers who pursue mental health & well-being employment.  
• Youth will increase contributions to their communities through applying critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication learning in 4-H Health and Well Being.

Intermediate Outcomes:

Adult

• More citizens adopt digital tools for work and daily life.
• Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
• More public spaces are revitalized for community engagement.
• Increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs.
• More individuals engage in local governance and civic groups.
• New partnerships and networks address community challenges
• Increased availability and accessibility of evidence-based recovery capital-building programs
• Enhanced community partnerships that target recovery from substance use disorder
• Increased use of de-stigmatized language
• Increased use of self-care and other coping strategies
• Increased advocacy for mental health and wellbeing resources
• Increased partnerships (number or strength) to address mental health and wellbeing issues within the community

Youth

• Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.?? 
• Youth will plan and implement a service project.?
• Increased availability and accessibility of evidence-based prevention programs
• Enhanced community partnerships that target youth prevention
• 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.    
• Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to mental health and wellbeing among 4-Hers.

Initial Outcomes:

Adult

• Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources.
• Improved understanding of disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
• Greater awareness of the benefits of public spaces.
• Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity.
• Improved awareness of civic engagement opportunities.
• Greater knowledge of community partnerships and collaboration strategies
• Substance use prevention and recovery behaviors for adults include, but are not limited to, pro-social activity, employability, building supportive networks, healthy coping and stress management, and mental health support.
  • Increased knowledge about addiction as a chronic disorder
  • Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery
  • Increased confidence making decision related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills)
  • Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language
  • Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.).
  • Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern
  • Increased ability to use de-stigmatized language
  • Increased knowledge of self-care and other coping strategies
  • Increased knowledge of mental health and well-being resources (interpersonal and community-based)

Youth

• Youth identify personal strengths that contribute to leadership skill development (communication, teamwork, civic engagement).?? 
• Youth successfully worked in a team environment to accomplish a task.?? 
• Youth realize how their actions impact others.
• Substance use prevention and recovery behaviors for youth include, but are not limited to, pro-social activity, positively relating to parents and other non-parental adults, building supportive networks, healthy coping and stress management, substance use refusal self-efficacy, and peer pressure management.
  • Increased knowledge about substance use and its effects
  • Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery
  • Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills)
  • Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language
  • Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.).
  • Increased knowledge of positive mental health practices  
  • Increased knowledge and awareness of healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
  • Improved attitudes and beliefs towards healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
  • Increased knowledge of general wellness practices

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Participants will exhibit gained knowledge of helpful activities at Extension

Indicator: Number of participants who report an improved knowledge of resources at Extension and in the community.

Method: Paper questionnaire or Qualtrics surveys

Timeline: End of program

Intermediate Outcome: Adoption of safe handlining and application procedures of pesticides. 

Indicator: the number of participants who stated improved practices. 

Method: Questionnaire 

Timeline: 6 months following training 

Intermediate Outcome:

Indicator:

Method:

Timeline:

Long-term Outcome: Participants will exhibit improved mental health and well being. 

Indicator: Number of participants who report an improvement or increase of mental health behaviors from interacting and participating with the garden. 

Method: questionnaire 

Timeline: End of growing season 

Outcome: Short Term 4-H Camp

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they take responsibility for their actions.   
• Number of youth who reported 4-H Camp improved their ability to manage their emotions. 

Method: Survey 

Timeline: End of Camp

 

 Outcome: Short Term 

Indicator: Number of youth that report knowing bicycle traffic laws and number of youth reporting a connection to the community. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: End of bike safety day

Outcome: Short Term

Indicator: Number of youth report that they know firearm safety 

Method: Survey

Timeline: Program year

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Henderson Youth

Project or Activity: Shooting Sports Club

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Curriculum

Inputs: Agent, certified volunteers, state shooting sports specialist

Date: Throughout year

Audience: Henderson Youth

Project or Activity: Bike Safety Day

Content or Curriculum: Community Resources

Inputs: Community Partners, Henderson Police Department

Date: June 2026

Audience: Henderson Adults

Project or Activity: Healthy Eating Program at Rehabilitation Center

Content or Curriculum: UK Publications

Inputs: Extension Staff, WARM Center

Date: July 2025-June 2026

Audience: Henderson Adults

Project or Activity: Raised Bed/Container Gardening at Rehabilitation center

Content or Curriculum: UK Publications

Inputs: Extension staff, Community Partners

Date: Summer/fall 2025

Audience: Henderson Adults

Project or Activity: Pesticide Certification 

Content or Curriculum: UK Publications

Inputs: UK Specalist, ANR and Hort Agents, KDA

Date: Jan 2026

Audience: Youth 

Project or Activity: 4-H Camp

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H, the Land Grant System and American Camp Association.

Inputs: These programs are supported by the research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system, funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc., local, state, and federal sources, grants, and the engagement of volunteers, youth, communities, and external stakeholders.  

Date: June 2026

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Participants will exhibit gained knowledge of helpful activities at Extension

Indicator: Number of participants who report an improved knowledge of resources at Extension and in the community.

Method: Paper questionnaire or Qualtrics surveys

Timeline: End of program

Intermediate Outcome: Adoption of safe handlining and application procedures of pesticides. 

Indicator: the number of participants who stated improved practices. 

Method: Questionnaire 

Timeline: 6 months following training 

Intermediate Outcome:

Indicator:

Method:

Timeline:

Long-term Outcome: Participants will exhibit improved mental health and well being. 

Indicator: Number of participants who report an improvement or increase of mental health behaviors from interacting and participating with the garden. 

Method: questionnaire 

Timeline: End of growing season 

Outcome: Short Term 4-H Camp

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they take responsibility for their actions.   
• Number of youth who reported 4-H Camp improved their ability to manage their emotions. 

Method: Survey 

Timeline: End of Camp

 

 Outcome: Short Term 

Indicator: Number of youth that report knowing bicycle traffic laws and number of youth reporting a connection to the community. 

Method: Survey

Timeline: End of bike safety day

Outcome: Short Term

Indicator: Number of youth report that they know firearm safety 

Method: Survey

Timeline: Program year