Butler County CES

Title:

Butler County Rural Development Program

MAP:

Rural and Community Development

Agents Involved:

Drake, Saylor,

MAJOR PROGRAM 1:

First Impressions

MAJOR PROGRAM 2:

Youth Engagement Leadership Program (YELP)

MAJOR PROGRAM 3:

Community Leadership Development

Situation:

Butler County has a long tradition of Rural Development. Butler County was a pilot county for a federal rural development program in the 1950's. Since the program's inception, the Extension Rural Development program has led the way on many positive changes in Butler County. Butler County has 4 functioning rural development clubs. The clubs maintain their own community centers and provide a foundation for community activity where they are located. Each club meets monthly. They provide educational and leadership development opportunities for their members. There is also a steering committee of delegates from each club. The steering committee bi-annually to direct rural development activities on a county-wide basis.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Rural Development communities are progressive and sustainable. They improve quality of life in the community.

Intermediate Outcomes:

Community service projects are completed by clubs. Clubs maintain and improve their properties.

Initial Outcomes:

Club members receive adult education by attending club meetings. Club members and officers gain leadership skills. Clubs host functions and allow policy makers to interact with citizens.

Evaluation:

Initial Outcome: Leadership skills gained

Indicator: New people in leadership

Method: Leadership Roster

Timeline: January 2025

Intermediate Outcome: Community service projects

Indicator: Clubs list activities at annual meeting

Method: Take notes from club presidents

Timeline: November 2024

Long-term Outcome: Rural Development Club remain in existence.

Indicator: Clubs remain in operation

Method: Observation

Timeline: November 2024

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Rural Development Club Members, Elected Officials

Project or Activity: Monthly Club Meetings

Content or Curriculum: Clubs have program committee and determine their needs.

Inputs: Agent time, volunteers, club facilities

Date: Monthly - July 2024-June 2025

Audience: Rural Development Club Members, Elected Officials

Project or Activity: R.D. Annual Meeting

Content or Curriculum: Program, business meeting

Inputs: Club member time, agent time, city building, steering committee funds

Date: November 2024

Success Stories