Carroll County CES

County Emphasis:

Community, Economic, and Leadership Development

Concentration 1:

Building Leadership Capacity

Concentration 2:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Concentration 3:

Work and Life Skill Development

Concentration 4:

Substance Use Prevention and Recovery

Situation:

Leadership is critical at several levels, from elected officials and internal management structure of organizations to project managers, team leaders, and those who inspire throughout a community. Thriving communities may require many leaders willing to take on leadership roles. And yet, it can be a challenge to identify new leaders or to encourage leaders to step up to the role without first building leadership capacity (CEDIK 2024). Respondents participating in the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment identified the need to build leadership capacity to enhance individual and family development and community and economic development. Kentucky has a statewide need to “prepare community members for formal/informal leadership and/or volunteer roles” and to build “capacity of local nonprofits and community leaders,” according to the survey. UK Extension aims to work on strengthening critical leadership skills and confidence for new and emerging leaders so that the pool of willing and capable leaders can rise to match local needs. Volunteer training can have motivational benefits ranging from inspiring volunteers to get more involved to keeping them in the program (Fox, Hebert, Martin & Bairnsfather, 2009). 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 Youth Focus 4-H opportunities profoundly impact individuals and communities in Kentucky by equipping youth with essential skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, fostering personal leadership, and community engagement. Skills like analytical thinking, creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, and adaptability are key to future employment (World Economic Forum, 2023). 77% of employers say that there should be less focus on traditional school subjects and more focus on real-world skills (Kauffman Foundation, 2021). In the 2023 University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Needs Assessment youth life skill training opportunities (such as leadership and communication skill opportunities), strengthening youth workforce readiness, and strengthening youth-adult or mentorship relationships were top priorities across Kentucky. According to the National 4-H Annual Index Survey (2024), 95% of youth identified their strengths through 4-H, 80% explored career options, and 50% received guidance for college decisions. Additionally, 75% enjoyed helping their community, and 93% felt inspired by 4-H, with 42% being inspired “a lot” to volunteer. These experiences build leadership capacity, promote civic engagement, and create connected, resilient communities by encouraging critical thinking and empathy. Furthermore, 4-H offers life skill training, strengthens youth workforce readiness, fosters mentorship, maximizes youth voice in important issues, and enhances peer-peer relationships.   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. 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. 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:

Community and Economic Development Survey Section top 10 concerns:

Efforts that support local and small businesses.

Safe, accessible community places for outdoor physical activity.

strengthening adult workforce readiness (including entrepreneurship, and business development skills)

Addressing housing issues.

Collaborations among community organizations and local government.

Opportunities that promote a sense of local community.

Preparations for community-wide disasters and/or climate impacts.

Building the capacity of local nonprofits and community leaders.

Assisting local government and businesses with land use decisions.

Prepare community members for formal/informal leadership and/or volunteer roles.

Youth Development Survey Section top concerns:

Minimizing youth substance use.

Youth like skills training opportunities.

Strengthening youth workforce readiness.

Minimizing bullying and/or school violence.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Strong leadership pool for community boards and organizations Strong boards and organizations accomplish more in the community Increased community pride or investment Improved local economy Improved quality of life for citizens Increased human capital among Kentuckians Decrease in state unemployment rates Improved quality of workforce 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.  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 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.?? Increased human capital among Kentuckians Decrease in state unemployment rates Improved quality of workforce 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.  Youth will become engaged, healthy, and productive members of their communities. 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 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

Intermediate Outcomes:

Participants gain confidence to lead Leaders are inspired to get more involved Leaders address community issues and needs Leaders recruit and engage others to participate in community projects Leaders mentor others Increased knowledge transfer through volunteer-led positions Increased implementation of employability strategies/skills Increased salary/income Increased employment Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.   Youth will plan and implement a service project.   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 Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.??  Youth will plan and implement a service project.? Increased implementation of employability strategies/skills Increased salary/income Increased employment Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills. Youth will plan and implement a service project. Youth will choose to take on leadership roles in their community. Increased availability and accessibility of evidence-based recovery capital-building programs Enhanced community partnerships that target recovery from substance use disorder Increased availability and accessibility of evidence-based prevention programs Enhanced community partnerships that target youth prevention

Initial Outcomes:

Improved leadership skills Enhanced knowledge of concepts and practices Knowledge gained through training programs Taking on leadership roles for the first time Assuming new leadership roles Participants give their time to serve in volunteer roles Strengthening work and life skills, including but not limited to, developing workforce development skills, employability and interpersonal skills, and work-life management strategies.  Developed skills related to workforce development Improved employability and interpersonal skills Increased confidence to implement employability strategies Developed strategies for maintaining a health work-life balance Youth will explore their spark in leadership.  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 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 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.  Youth identify personal strengths that contribute to life and work skill development. Increased knowledge of career pathways. Increased knowledge of educational, training, and certification opportunities. Youth will practice civic engagement, leadership and communication skills. 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.).  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.).

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Improved leadership skills.

Indicator: Number of people reporting improved leadership skills, (e.g., facilitation, conflict management, communication)

Method: Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation

Intermediate Outcome: Increased participation in leadership roles by first-time as a result of Extension leadership programs.

Indicator: Number of people taking on a leadership role for the first time as a result of Extension leadership programs.

Method: Post-participation survey (self-reported leadership involvement); follow-up evaluation with community partners.

Timeline:Survey collected immediately after program completion and follow up evaluation conducted at six months.

Long-term Outcome: Giving time to serve in volunteer roles (e.g., KEHA or KALP members, Master programs, etc.). 

Indicator: Number of people volunteering time to assist Extension or community activities and events (ex: KEHA or KALP members, Master programs, etc.)

Method: Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation; also monthly, quarterly, or annual volunteer hour reports.

Outcome: Increased confidence to Lead.

Indicator: Number of people reporting increased confidence in their leadership abilities.

Method: Post participation survey monitoring changes in local and state leadership positions.

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation or via follow-up evaluation after six months.

Outcome: Increased community pride.

Indicator: Number of participants reporting a stronger sense of pride, identity, or community investment after engaging in Extension initiatives.

Method: Photos, documentation, post-program survey; follow-up.

Timeline: Survey collected immediately after program completion; follow-up conduced at 3 and 6 months.

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

Indicator: Number of participants who developed a resume as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.

Method: Self-reported surveys.

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

Learning Opportunities:

Audience :Individuals

Project or Activity: Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA)

Content or Curriculum: KEHA Leadership Academy, Homemakers Leader Lessons, Publications, Newsletters/News & Notes, Officer/Chairman training materials, KEHA State Meeting, various other resources and materials

Inputs: Programmatic materials, training, mentoring, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profits, etc.

Date: on-going

Audience: Individuals

Project or Activity: Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program (KALP)

Content or Curriculum: KALP curriculum, Publications, other materials and expertise

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, external evaluators, community partners, volunteers, etc. 

Date: On-going

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: Supporting Citizen Engagement

Content or Curriculum: Creating Welcoming Communities, Becoming an Informed Citizen, Robert’s Rules Refresh, Youth & Adult Listening Sessions, KY Voter Education Resources, Engaging City Councils, Civic Engagement Through Voting, How To: Community Forums

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, grant funds, local organizations and community partners, etc. 

Date: Ongoing

Audience: Individuals, Families, Employees  

Project or Activity: Development of Time Management Skills

Content or Curriculum: Time Well Spent: Productivity Skills for Success curriculum; publications, newsletters; Leader Lessons; podcasts; etc.

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, Chamber of Commerce, businesses, etc.

Date: On-going

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Leadership Program

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum such as Leadership Skills you never outgrow is sourced from Shop 4-H and Ricochet: An Extreme 4-H Leadership Adventure is sourced from other Land Grant Systems. All curriculum pieces focus on leadership, communication, and civic engagement.

Inputs: In school clubs for middle and high school, after school clubs for teens, area ten councils, Middle school leadership clubs, and civic engagement opportunities. 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. 

Date: Summer

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Teen Conference

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, and civic engagement.

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.

Date: Summer

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Summit

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, and civic engagement

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.

Date: Fall

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H State Teen Council, Leadership Boards and Task Forces

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, and civic engagement.

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. 

Date: Throughout the program year

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H Camp Counselor Training (Teens)

Content or Curriculum: Content in the Camp Volunteer Training Guide is sourced from the American Camp Association best practices and focuses on developmental needs of campers, safety considerations, operating procedures, age-appropriate behavior management, and camper supervision techniques.

Inputs: These trainings are supported by the research base of the American Camp Association with materials provided by the 4-H State Office, funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc., local, state, and federal sources, grants, and led by County Extension Staff responsible for 4-H Camp. 

Date; Pre-Summer

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: 4-H State Teen Council, Leadership Boards and Task Forces

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, and civic engagement.

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. 

Date: Throughout the program year

Audience: Youth

Project or Activity: Achievement Program

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, and civic engagement.

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.

Date: Throughout the year

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Improved leadership skills.

Indicator: Number of people reporting improved leadership skills, (e.g., facilitation, conflict management, communication)

Method: Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation

Intermediate Outcome: Increased participation in leadership roles by first-time as a result of Extension leadership programs.

Indicator: Number of people taking on a leadership role for the first time as a result of Extension leadership programs.

Method: Post-participation survey (self-reported leadership involvement); follow-up evaluation with community partners.

Timeline:Survey collected immediately after program completion and follow up evaluation conducted at six months.

Long-term Outcome: Giving time to serve in volunteer roles (e.g., KEHA or KALP members, Master programs, etc.). 

Indicator: Number of people volunteering time to assist Extension or community activities and events (ex: KEHA or KALP members, Master programs, etc.)

Method: Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation; also monthly, quarterly, or annual volunteer hour reports.

Outcome: Increased confidence to Lead.

Indicator: Number of people reporting increased confidence in their leadership abilities.

Method: Post participation survey monitoring changes in local and state leadership positions.

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation or via follow-up evaluation after six months.

Outcome: Increased community pride.

Indicator: Number of participants reporting a stronger sense of pride, identity, or community investment after engaging in Extension initiatives.

Method: Photos, documentation, post-program survey; follow-up.

Timeline: Survey collected immediately after program completion; follow-up conduced at 3 and 6 months.

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

Indicator: Number of participants who developed a resume as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.

Method: Self-reported surveys.

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