Fayette County CES

County Emphasis:

Economic Development

Concentration 1:

Financial Security and Economic Well-Being

Concentration 2:

Work and Life Skill Development

Concentration 3:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Concentration 4:

Substance Use Prevention and Recovery

Situation:

A disproportionate number of Kentuckians live in economically distressed communities (39% of Kentuckians, compared to 15% nationally). Further, most Kentucky households are concerned with financially sustaining a quality of life that allows them to survive and thrive in an economically challenged society. From housing to grocery expenses, the cost of living continues to rise, and households are ill-equipped to adjust. Securing financial stability is vital for the well-being of state constituents. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) is committed to improving the financial security and economic well-being of families across the Commonwealth. Related CES programming is designed to help Kentuckians become more economically resilient by promoting financial literacy education, comprehensive family resource management skills, and small business engagement and support.

In a 2023 University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, with nearly 28,000 responses from across the state, Building Financial Literacy and/or Resource Management Skills was among the top 10 state-identified priority issues reported by Kentuckians, and Efforts that Support Local & Small businesses was among the top 10 Community & Economic Development needs in the state.

Youth Focus

In Kentucky, economic uncertainty due to job market fluctuations and agricultural shifts impacts youth through unstable family environments and limited resources. Hospitality, retail, and tourism generated over $10 billion in 2023, with job growth in culinary arts, tourism, and hobby industries. The unemployment rate increased by 4.7% from July 2023 to July 2024. According to the Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023), priorities include building financial literacy and resource management skills, youth life skill training (e.g., leadership and communication), strengthening youth workforce readiness (e.g., entrepreneurship, business development), and engaging diverse and non-traditional youth audiences. America’s future relies on a ready workforce and engaged communities to tackle major challenges. Kentucky 4-H develops youth potential for lifelong success through essential skills in communication, leadership, and civic engagement. 80% of 4-Hers reported that 4-H helped them explore career options and 95% reported 4-H helped them identify things they were good at, and 50% reported 4-H helped them with college decision-making. 4-H programs equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to thrive in their personal lives, family lives, and communities.

Kentucky household income statistics are concerning, with the median household income in Kentucky on a downward trend (i.e., approximately $55,100, which is 74% of the U.S. median income). Most alarming, it is estimated that nearly 62% of Kentucky households do not generate sufficient income to meet living wage standards given the state’s average cost of living. The Kentucky Center for Business and Economic Research (2024) projects that, “a key for Kentucky’s future economic growth is to identify and successfully implement programs that increase the employment-population ratio, particularly for working-age adults.” The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) is committed to improving the work and life skill development of adults across the Commonwealth by offering programming designed to increase the human capital of constituents. This includes providing education and training on topics such as workforce preparation, job readiness, financial literacy, soft skills, and professionalism, among others.

In a 2023 University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, with nearly 28,000 responses from across the state, Building Employee Soft Skills (e.g., communication, productivity, and teamwork skills) and Building Life Skills of Community Members were among the top ten Individual and Family Development Needs reported by Kentuckians.

Youth Focus

America’s future hinges on a prepared workforce and engaged communities collaborating to tackle society’s most pressing challenges. As of 2024, there are 2,465,949 job openings in Kentucky and nationwide there are 10 million unfilled jobs. Fasted growing jobs are in the fields of vocational education and higher education teachers, agriculture professionals, and digitally enabled roles: ecommerce specialists, digital transformation specialists, and digital marketing professionals (World Economic Forum, 2023). 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 haven’t been invented yet (Dell Technologies, 2019). 77% of employers say focus less on traditional school subjects, more on real-world skills (Kauffman Foundation, 2021). Skills like analytical thinking, creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, adaptability are key (World Economic Forum, 2023). According to the National 4-H Index Study 2024, 80% explored career options, 50% received guidance for college decisions, and 95% reported 4-H helped them identify things they were good at. To ensure a sustainable society, it is crucial that our youth are equipped to fill these positions. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023) has identified key priority issues related to life skill development for young people. These priorities include youth life skill training opportunities, youth workforce readiness, and maximizing youth voice in matters that directly impact them. Empowering our youth to actively participate in addressing societal issues is essential for a thriving future.

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.

County Situation:

Fayette County demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting local and small businesses, ranking first in the Extension Community needs assessment. The county's economy is driven by key industries such as Health Care and Social Assistance, Retail Trade, Educational Services, Accommodation and Food Services, and Administrative sectors. In 2021, the median household income was $58,954, reflecting stable financial conditions. Employment has seen modest growth, with total jobs increasing from 204,249 in 2017 to 204,322 in 2022. Additionally, Fayette County boasts a diverse small business landscape, with 4,538 businesses having fewer than five employees and 1,610 businesses operating with 5–9 employees, further highlighting the area's entrepreneurial spirit. Extension can strengthen economic development by equipping small businesses with training, networking, and educational resources to foster growth.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• Improved social and emotional competency
• Reduced youth substance use
• Youth will have increased economic security.  
• Youth will make sound financial decisions.
• Communities recover faster from disasters/economic disruptions
• Cultural heritage is preserved and integrated into communities
• Decrease in state unemployment rates
• Expanded partnerships enhance problem-solving and resource-sharing
• Improved financial and economic well-being
• Improved financial security and stability
• Improved quality of life
• Improved quality of life through connection and civic engagement
• Improved quality of workforce
• Increased digital access improves economic and educational opportunities.
• Increased financial literacy skills
• Increased human capital among Kentuckians
• Increased recovery capital
• Reduced adult overdose fatalities
• Reduced adult substance use
• Reduced adult substance use disorder
• Reduced stigma related to adult substance use

Intermediate Outcomes:

• Enhanced community partnerships that target youth prevention
• Youth will practice responsible consumer and financial management decision-making such as budgeting, actions on needs verses wants.    
• Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
• Enhanced community partnerships that target recovery from substance use disorder
• Greater knowledge of community partnerships and collaboration strategies
• Implementation of financial literacy and resource management strategies/skills
• Improved understanding of disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
• Increased access to community financial resources
• Increased availability and accessibility of evidence-based recovery capital-building programs
• Increased employment\
• Increased implementation of employability strategies/skills
• Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources.
• Increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs.
• Increased salary/income
• Increased savings (e.g., as a result of budgeting, saving, reducing debt, spending wisely, stretching resources)
• Increased sound financial decision making
• Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity.
• Increasing knowledge and utilization of planning ahead strategies
• More citizens adopt digital tools for work and daily life.
• New partnerships and networks address community challenges

Initial Outcomes:

• Increased knowledge about substance use and its effects
• Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery.
• Youth will aspire to make SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) economic and financial well-being decisions.
• Developed skills related to workforce development
• Developed strategies for maintaining a health work-life balance
• Improved employability and interpersonal skills
• Improved financial literacy knowledge
• Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery
• Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language
• Increased confidence making decision related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills)
• Increased confidence to implement employability strategies
• Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.).
• Increased knowledge about addiction as a chronic disorder
• Strengthening financial literacy and well-being, including but not limited to, budgeting, spending wisely, saving, using credit responsibly, reducing debt, estate planning, fraud reduction, etc.
• 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 awareness of Extension resources and programs supporting food access.
• Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation.

Evaluation:

Outcome	Short term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported learning  the differences between purchases made for “needs” vs “wants”  Number of youth who reported that they learned about budgeting.  Number of youth who reported that they learned about savings.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have identified     one or more jobs that might be a good fit for them in Family Consumer Sciences.   Number of youth who reported that have taken steps to pursue gaining knowledge for a job in Family Consumer Sciences.   Number of youth who reported that they have practiced budging skills.   Number of youth who reported that they have practiced needs versus wants knowledge when making purchases on a budget. .  Number of youth who reported that they have included savings in their budget.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	End of year program

Outcome	Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).
Indicator	Number of participants who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in substance use prevention and/or recovery programming. Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery (initial)
Indicator	Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address substance use/recovery in the community
Method	Program metrics (agents will track and report based on their activities and partnerships related to substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery)
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Developed skills related to workforce development (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported learning new skills to prepare or improved themselves for the workforce as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Improved employability and/or interpersonal skills (e.g., job interview skills, communication, networking, time management) (initial)
Indicator	(1) Number of participants who reported improvement in job interview skills; (2) Number of participants who reported improvement in personal skills.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow-up evaluation

Outcome	Developed strategies for work-life management (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they learned strategies for managing their work-life responsibilities as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome	Increased salary/income/employment (intermediate)
Indicator	(1) Number of participants who gained an increase in salary/income as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach; (2) Number of participants who gained new employment as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach
Method	Documentation (direct report, repeated survey) or interviews
Timeline	Ongoing/as changes are made and project progress

Outcome	Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources (short term)
Indicator	Number of participants demonstrating increased confidence or skills in using digital tools (e.g., online banking, telehealth, online applications, or virtual platforms) after completing Extension training programs
Method	Post-participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains).
Timeline	Collected immediately after program participation.

Outcome	Improved understanding of disaster preparedness and recovery strategies (short term)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they intend to develop an emergency plan or preparedness kit after completing an Extension disaster training.
Method	Pre- and post-training survey.
Timeline	Collected before and after each session.

Outcome	Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity (short term)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported increased understanding of the value of building local cultural assets such as foodways, arts, and heritage traditions.
Method	Reflection surveys and community feedback.
Timeline	Collected within 30 days of participation.

Outcome	More individuals adopt digital tools for work and daily life (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of communities that reported implementing at least one new strategy to strengthen digital inclusion (e.g., improved public Wi-Fi, device access programs, digital literacy workshops) as a result of Extension-supported initiatives.
Method	Follow-up survey at 3 and 6 months.
Timeline	Collected at program completion and 6 months post-program.

Outcome	Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies (int)
Indicator	Number of businesses, farms, or households reporting faster post-disaster recovery due to preparedness actions learned through Extension.
Method	Post-disaster community case studies and resilience tracking.
Timeline	Assessed following disaster events.

Outcome	Increased ability to access, interpret, and apply data for informed decision-making (initial).
Indicator	Number of participants reporting increased confidence in accessing, interpreting, and applying data to inform local decision-making.
Method	Self-reported surveys collected after data literacy training sessions, Agent documentation of community plans, grant applications, or policy discussions that reference data profiles.
Timeline	After program or training participation

Outcome	increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs
Indicator	Number of participants in Extension arts or design-based community programs (e.g., story circles, murals, design charettes, creative placemaking) who reported increased connection or belonging.
Method	pre- and post- surveys from program participation,
Timeline	after program participation

Outcome	Improved knowledge related to financial literacy concepts (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported increased knowledge of family finance and/or resource management concepts.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Improved financial and/or resource management skills (e.g., creating a budget, checking credit report, developing an estate plan, etc.) (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported developing skills related to family finance and/or resource management
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow-up evaluation

Outcome	Increased sound financial decision making (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of individuals who made a sound financial decision (e.g., regarding credit, budgeting, savings, debt, estate planning, fraud reduction, etc.).
Method	Self-reported surveys, documentation, or interviews
Timeline	Follow-up evaluations to capture action/behavior change over time.

Outcome	Implementation of financial literacy and resource management strategies/skills (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of individuals who implemented at least one strategy to better manage their family finances and resources (e.g., considered wants/needs, avoided bank fees, reviewed tax forms, set savings goals, started estate plan, developed budget, increased fraud protection, etc.).
Method	Self-reported surveys, documentation, or interviews
Timeline	Follow-up evaluations to capture action/behavior change over time.

Outcome	Increased knowledge about addiction as a chronic disorder (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery (or related subject matter)
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery (initial)
Indicator	Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address substance use/recovery in the community
Method	Program metrics agents will track, and report based on their activities and partnerships related to substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery)
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC).

Outcome	Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).
Indicator	Number of participants who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in substance use prevention and/or recovery programming. Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC).

Outcome	Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported an increased ability to use destigmatized language
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome	Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.). (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills (ST) Number of participants who used self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC)

Outcome	Increased access to community financial resources through Extension support (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of grants or tangible financial resources accessed by communities, nonprofits, or small businesses as a result of Extension-supported initiatives
Method	Tracked through self-reported surveys from community partners, nonprofits and small businesses, documentation from grant reports where Extension provided support
Timeline	Ongoing

Outcome	Improved business development and operation skills (e.g. marketing, branding, business climate, customer outreach)
Indicator	Number of small businesses who report developing skills related to business marketing, climate, expansion, or retention through participating in Extension programming.
Method	Self-reported surveys, documentation, direct report
Timeline	Post-program survey administration; follow-up evaluation

Outcome	Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)
Indicator	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.
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Learning Opportunities:

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Reality Store
Content or Curriculum	It’s Your Reality
Inputs	4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.   Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects.  Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  Clothing Volunteers  Four residential camping facilities.   Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.   Utilization of approved research-based curriculum.  Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.   Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.   Funding from local, state, and federal sources.   Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.   Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs.
Date(s)	September 1st-August 30th

Audience	Families and Individuals
Project or Activity	Substance Use Prevention Programming
Content or Curriculum	Botvin Lifeskills, Strengthening Families, 4-H Health Rocks, Engaging People with Lived Experience (testimonies),
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, health coalitions, schools and school staff
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele
Project or Activity	4-H Life and Work Readiness (Club/Group/Individual)
Content or Curriculum	Kentucky 4-H Work & Life Readiness Lessons, 4-H Build Your Future, Work Ready Life Skills, and Leap into Careers
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 such as civic groups. Focus is on Grades 4-12.
Date(s)	Program Year

Audience	Families and Individuals
Project or Activity	Positive Youth Development
Content or Curriculum	Health Rocks, Positive Employability,  Mindful Mechanics, Get Experience in Mindfulness (GEM), Social/Emotional Health-Focused Programming
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, faith-based organizations, health coalitions, schools and school staff
Date(s)	Ongoing

Audience	Individuals, Families, Employees
Project or Activity	Development of Time Management Skills
Content or Curriculum	Time Well Spent: Productivity Skills for Success curriculum; Leader Lessons
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, businesses, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

Audience	Individuals, Families, Employees
Project or Activity	Development of Employability Skills
Content or Curriculum	PROFIT; Recovering Your Finances curriculum
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, Court system, community centers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

Audience	Individuals
Project or Activity	Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery
Content or Curriculum	In the Face of Disaster toolkit/curriculum
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

Audience	Individuals
Project or Activity	Digital Literacy Initiatives
Content or Curriculum	specialist support for Digital Literacy for Homemakers
Inputs	Programmatic materials, training, mentoring, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profits, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

Audience	Communities
Project or Activity	Building Connection in Communities
Content or Curriculum	Creating Welcoming Communities curriculum
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing
Audience	Individuals, Families, Employees
Project or Activity	Development of Financial Literacy Skills
Content or Curriculum	PROFIT; Recovering Your Finances curriculum; Big Blue Book Club; In the Face of Disaster; Leader Lessons
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, financial entities and organizations, businesses, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

Audience	Individuals, Families, Employees
Project or Activity	Development of Family Resource Management Skills
Content or Curriculum	PROFIT; Recovering Your Finances curriculum; Leader Lessons
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, Court system, community centers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Families and Individuals
Project or Activity	Recovery Capital Building
Content or Curriculum	PROFIT
Inputs	Programmatic materials, community partners, ASAP Boards and Community Coalitions, residential treatment centers, detention centers, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and clergy
Date(s)	Ongoing

Audience	Individuals, Families, Employees, Homemaker Audience
Project or Activity	Estate Planning/Planning Ahead
Content or Curriculum	Estate Planning publication series; Transferring Cherished Possessions curriculum; Planning Ahead Series
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, farms, community centers, Homemaker Presidents Council
Date(s)	Fall 2025- ongoing

Audience	Communities, Business leaders, employees
Project or Activity	Local & Small Business Support, workforce development population
Content or Curriculum	Growing Our Own, Economic Development Collaborative resources- Business climate, Economic Subject Matter resources CEDIK, Positive employability
Inputs	Programmatic materials, FCS-paid staff, small businesses, volunteers, community partners, non-project organizations, schools, farms, community centers, Extension Economic Dev. Specialist, etc.
Date(s)

Audience	Producers
Project or Activity	Produce best practices training
Content or Curriculum	Training video
Inputs	Agent, KDA, training video
Date(s)

Evaluation:

Outcome	Short term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported learning  the differences between purchases made for “needs” vs “wants”  Number of youth who reported that they learned about budgeting.  Number of youth who reported that they learned about savings.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have identified     one or more jobs that might be a good fit for them in Family Consumer Sciences.   Number of youth who reported that have taken steps to pursue gaining knowledge for a job in Family Consumer Sciences.   Number of youth who reported that they have practiced budging skills.   Number of youth who reported that they have practiced needs versus wants knowledge when making purchases on a budget. .  Number of youth who reported that they have included savings in their budget.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	End of year program

Outcome	Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).
Indicator	Number of participants who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in substance use prevention and/or recovery programming. Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery (initial)
Indicator	Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address substance use/recovery in the community
Method	Program metrics (agents will track and report based on their activities and partnerships related to substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery)
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Developed skills related to workforce development (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported learning new skills to prepare or improved themselves for the workforce as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Improved employability and/or interpersonal skills (e.g., job interview skills, communication, networking, time management) (initial)
Indicator	(1) Number of participants who reported improvement in job interview skills; (2) Number of participants who reported improvement in personal skills.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow-up evaluation

Outcome	Developed strategies for work-life management (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they learned strategies for managing their work-life responsibilities as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome	Increased salary/income/employment (intermediate)
Indicator	(1) Number of participants who gained an increase in salary/income as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach; (2) Number of participants who gained new employment as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach
Method	Documentation (direct report, repeated survey) or interviews
Timeline	Ongoing/as changes are made and project progress

Outcome	Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources (short term)
Indicator	Number of participants demonstrating increased confidence or skills in using digital tools (e.g., online banking, telehealth, online applications, or virtual platforms) after completing Extension training programs
Method	Post-participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains).
Timeline	Collected immediately after program participation.

Outcome	Improved understanding of disaster preparedness and recovery strategies (short term)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they intend to develop an emergency plan or preparedness kit after completing an Extension disaster training.
Method	Pre- and post-training survey.
Timeline	Collected before and after each session.

Outcome	Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity (short term)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported increased understanding of the value of building local cultural assets such as foodways, arts, and heritage traditions.
Method	Reflection surveys and community feedback.
Timeline	Collected within 30 days of participation.

Outcome	More individuals adopt digital tools for work and daily life (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of communities that reported implementing at least one new strategy to strengthen digital inclusion (e.g., improved public Wi-Fi, device access programs, digital literacy workshops) as a result of Extension-supported initiatives.
Method	Follow-up survey at 3 and 6 months.
Timeline	Collected at program completion and 6 months post-program.

Outcome	Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies (int)
Indicator	Number of businesses, farms, or households reporting faster post-disaster recovery due to preparedness actions learned through Extension.
Method	Post-disaster community case studies and resilience tracking.
Timeline	Assessed following disaster events.

Outcome	Increased ability to access, interpret, and apply data for informed decision-making (initial).
Indicator	Number of participants reporting increased confidence in accessing, interpreting, and applying data to inform local decision-making.
Method	Self-reported surveys collected after data literacy training sessions, Agent documentation of community plans, grant applications, or policy discussions that reference data profiles.
Timeline	After program or training participation

Outcome	increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs
Indicator	Number of participants in Extension arts or design-based community programs (e.g., story circles, murals, design charettes, creative placemaking) who reported increased connection or belonging.
Method	pre- and post- surveys from program participation,
Timeline	after program participation

Outcome	Improved knowledge related to financial literacy concepts (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported increased knowledge of family finance and/or resource management concepts.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Improved financial and/or resource management skills (e.g., creating a budget, checking credit report, developing an estate plan, etc.) (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported developing skills related to family finance and/or resource management
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow-up evaluation

Outcome	Increased sound financial decision making (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of individuals who made a sound financial decision (e.g., regarding credit, budgeting, savings, debt, estate planning, fraud reduction, etc.).
Method	Self-reported surveys, documentation, or interviews
Timeline	Follow-up evaluations to capture action/behavior change over time.

Outcome	Implementation of financial literacy and resource management strategies/skills (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of individuals who implemented at least one strategy to better manage their family finances and resources (e.g., considered wants/needs, avoided bank fees, reviewed tax forms, set savings goals, started estate plan, developed budget, increased fraud protection, etc.).
Method	Self-reported surveys, documentation, or interviews
Timeline	Follow-up evaluations to capture action/behavior change over time.

Outcome	Increased knowledge about addiction as a chronic disorder (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery (or related subject matter)
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery (initial)
Indicator	Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address substance use/recovery in the community
Method	Program metrics agents will track, and report based on their activities and partnerships related to substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery)
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC).

Outcome	Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).
Indicator	Number of participants who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in substance use prevention and/or recovery programming. Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC).

Outcome	Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported an increased ability to use destigmatized language
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome	Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.). (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).
Indicator	Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills (ST) Number of participants who used self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC)

Outcome	Increased access to community financial resources through Extension support (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of grants or tangible financial resources accessed by communities, nonprofits, or small businesses as a result of Extension-supported initiatives
Method	Tracked through self-reported surveys from community partners, nonprofits and small businesses, documentation from grant reports where Extension provided support
Timeline	Ongoing

Outcome	Improved business development and operation skills (e.g. marketing, branding, business climate, customer outreach)
Indicator	Number of small businesses who report developing skills related to business marketing, climate, expansion, or retention through participating in Extension programming.
Method	Self-reported surveys, documentation, direct report
Timeline	Post-program survey administration; follow-up evaluation

Outcome	Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)
Indicator	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.
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration