Extension
It Starts With Us
Community Forums, Built Environments, Great Pumpkin Pursuit
Community and Economic Development
Bridge, Mills, Reed
Agritourism Planning
Trail Design
Community Strategic Planning
4-H Youth Development Programming
Meade County is a part of the Louisville Metro and Fort Knox area and is recognized as a commuter county with 76% percent of the workforce leaving the county for employment. In addition 65% of the population falls in the 19-64 age range making it increasingly difficult to engage this population in community activities and discussions. One of the most popular reasons given as to why they do not participate includes not enough time or do not feel they are part of the community. During the Spring 2016 County Extension Council Meeting, lack of citizen involvement was identified as a focus area which they felt extension could have an impact. Another identified opportunity is to continue work to create built environments such as walking and bike trails.
With a major highway nearing completion that will create a connection between I-65 and I-64 which bypassing Louisville opportunities for tourism and economic growth have great potential. Extension programs which encourage sustainability and community and economic development are on the forefront working with local government and organizations.
The development of leadership contributes greatly to the positive development of young people and their communities. Leadership skills, such as goal-setting, problem-solving and sound decision-making, are not just necessary for leaders-these skills are needed for success in today's world (MacNeil, 2000). By supporting and engaging young leaders, adults, organizations and communities experience direct benefits, through stronger connections to other young people in the community (Zeldin, McDaniel, Topitzes, & Lorens, 2001). They have a greater understanding of the problems facing other youth, and fresh perspectives for how to address these problems (Des Marais, Yang, & Farzanehkia, 2000; Zeldin, McDaniel, Topitzes, & Lorens, 2001; McGillicuddy, 1991). Additionally, young people help to re-energize adults and counteract negative stereotypes of youth when they are successfully engaged in leadership within their communities (Zeldin, & Camino, 1999; Fiscus, 2003).
Community issues are diminished through active engaged local leaders.
Families will engage in quality time and exercise by using built environment trails and parks.
Community beautification efforts bring about increased business and tourism opportunities.
Youth will serve as teen and adult leaders in their communities, community organizations, and as mentors for younger youth.
Youth will demonstrate the understanding of diversity, inclusivity and multiculturalism in their daily life.
Youth will identify and address critical issues that impact the community.
Youth will be productive, contributing adults in the future.
Youth will use leadership and communications skills needed to be successful in the workplace on a daily basis.
Strengthen partnerships that address local needs identified by citizens.
Participants are aware built environments are available for recreational activities.
Area leaders and business people realize the importance of agritourism and look for other events to plan and develop.
Area leaders and business people realize the importance of agritourism and look for other events to plan and develop.
Youth will demonstrate leadership, teamwork and communication skills in their day to day lives.
Youth will utilize leadership skills learned during their time in 4-H in clubs, activities and other venues with 4-H and other community organizations.
Youth will indicate increased awareness of diversity issues in their community and personal lives.
Youth will engage in community based service projects selected to address identified needs.
Citizens will attend local forums and serve on committees designed to address local issues impacting the community.
Citizens will become aware of beautification efforts to impact business attraction and retention.
Area businesses will realize a positive impact from local agritourism events.
Youth will increase their knowledge about leadership and how to be an effective leader, team player and communicator.
Youth will learn about leadership styles and will be able to identify positive and negative leadership characteristics.
Youth will learn about diversity and will demonstrate inclusivity.
Youth will acquire decision making skills and gain an appreciation for civic engagement.
Youth will learn how to set appropriate, attainable goals.
Youth will listen to people who have different ideas from them.
Long-Term Outcome: Community problems are addressed through active engaged local leaders
Indicator: Number of people who are involved in addressing significant community issues
Method: Observation of leaders who implement projects
Timeline: July - June
Long-Term Outcome: Community built environments are in place for citizen use.
Indicator: Number of completed systems and use by community.
Method: Observation and periodic tracking of number of people using systems.
Timeline: July - June
Audience: Adults and Youth
Project or Activity: County Conversations/Forums
Content or Curriculum: Turning Lemons into Lemonade
Inputs: local residents, council members
Date: September-May
Audience: General Public
Project or Activity: Opioids and Addiction Awareness Series
Content or Curriculum: Understanding Addiction
Inputs: local residents, council members, extension specialists
Date: September-November
Audience: General Public
Project or Activity: Buttermilk Falls Trail, Red Rock Trail, Bike Park and Mountain Bike Trail
Content or Curriculum: CEDIK
Inputs: local residents, council members, extension specialists
Date: year round with major focus in Fall and Spring
Audience: General Public
Project or Activity: Great Pumpkin Pursuit
Content Curriculum: developed by local leaders
Inputs: local residents, extension specialist, county tourism, KY Giant Pumpkin Growers Association,
Date: April through September
Audience: Teen Leadership Academy (TLA) Participants
Project or Activity: Leadership and Community Awareness
Content Curriculum: KY 4-H Core Curriculum
Inputs: local residents, extension specialists, TLA 4-H Agents, TLA participants & families
Timeline: Monthly, September 2019 - May 2020
Author: Andy Mills
Major Program: Agritourism Planning
For the fourth year in a row this ANR agent has collaborated with the KY Giant Pumpkin Grower's Association, Meade County Tourism Board, Meade County FFA, and a local Agritourism farm to plan and implement a national weigh-off for a giant vegetable especially pumpkins and watermelons. Over 300 people attended the event from seven different states. It is estimated that this event generates nearly $10,000 for our community. Spectators are given the chance to learn about growi
