Pike County CES

County Emphasis:

Growing Healthy Communities

Concentration 1:

Family and Youth Development

Concentration 2:

Health and Wellbeing

Concentration 3:

Mental Health and Well-Being

Concentration 4:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Situation:

Family and Youth Development:

Family and Youth Development programming is essential for fostering healthy, supportive environments where both children and adults can thrive. By offering structured activities and educational workshops, UK Extension aims to build strong family bonds equipping young people and older adults with critical life skills. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, our programming also addresses social and emotional needs throughout the lifespan, promoting resilience and positive relationships which are two of the key concerns identified in the top 15 needs of Kentucky’s statewide needs assessment. Investing in such programs can prevent future challenges by supporting early intervention and personal growth. Ultimately, these initiatives contribute to the well-being of individuals and the stability of communities, making them a vital component of social development.

Health and Wellbeing:

The opportunities and resources available to support the health and well-being of adults and families in Kentucky vary widely. Disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure contribute to higher rates of chronic health conditions and lower quality of life. Prevention, early detection, and care are essential to maintain and/or improve quality of life. Yet, this burden is often placed on individuals to navigate the healthcare system and traditional public health entities. Additionally, for decades, little attention has been given to the external factors that undoubtedly affect health such as access to care, education, nutritious foods, and safe physical spaces. These same issues and concerns were echoed throughout the 2023 UK Cooperative Extension Community Assessment. Within the top 15 priority issues identified by Kentuckians, “ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable nutritious foods” was #4 and “reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise” was #8. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, UK Extension aims to become a critical public health partner for addressing disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure through comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness programming that supports adult physical health and well-being.

Mental Health and Wellbeing:

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.

Connected and Resilient Communities:

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.

County Situation:

Family and Youth Development:

In Pike County, Kentucky, Family and Youth Development programming is tailored to meet the unique needs of the community. The Pike County Extension Office offers a variety of initiatives aimed at fostering healthy, supportive environments for both children and adults.

According to the Pike County Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, 60% of respondents identified the need for more youth activities and programs, 55% of respondents emphasized the importance of parenting education and support, and 50% of respondents highlighted the need for job training and employment opportunities.

4-H Youth Development is a key component, empowering young people to reach their full potential through engaging programs that emphasize leadership, community service, and personal growth. The 4-H program helps youth develop skills in areas such as science, engineering, and technology, and encourages them to make healthier lifestyle choices.

Additionally, Family & Consumer Sciences (FCS) focuses on improving the quality of life for individuals and families through education and outreach. This includes programs on human development, parenting, resource management, nutrition, health, and leadership development. These efforts are designed to build resilience and positive relationships, addressing social and emotional needs throughout the lifespan.

Community Arts plays a vital role in enriching the lives of Pike County residents by fostering creativity, self-expression, and community engagement through accessible arts programming. This initiative supports individuals of all ages in exploring visual arts, music, theater, and other art forms, while also promoting creativity and cultural heritage. Through workshops, exhibitions, performances, and public art projects, Community Arts cultivates a sense of belonging and pride, encourages inter-generational collaboration, and enhances the overall quality of life. By partnering with schools, local artists, and non-profit organizations, the program ensures that the arts remain a vibrant and inclusive part of community development and lifelong learning.

Agriculture and Natural Resources in Pike County serve as a backbone for local farmers and gardeners, offering essential services such as soil testing, pest identification and management, and sustainable agriculture education. These initiatives empower farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to improve crop yields, protect the environment, and promote long-term agricultural success. The demonstration and community garden provides hands-on learning opportunities, showcasing best practices in sustainable agriculture while fostering collaboration among residents. Additionally, interactive workshops allow farmers and gardeners to gain practical experience in areas like fruit tree grafting and seed starting, equipping them with essential skills to enhance their agricultural practices. The Pike County Master Gardeners, Beekeepers Association, Cattlemen's Association, and Pikeville Farmers Market drive innovation, conservation, and economic growth, ensuring a resilient agricultural future for generations to come.  

Pike County is working to prevent future challenges and support early intervention and personal growth. These initiatives contribute significantly to the well-being of individuals and the stability of the community, making them a vital component of social development.

Health and Wellbeing 

In Pike County, disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure contribute to elevated rates of chronic health conditions and a diminished quality of life among adults and families. In 2023, 38.4 percent of adults (age 18 and older) living in Pike County reported having a body mass index of 30 or higher (DataUsa.io). This high obesity rate correlates with increased incidences of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, underscoring the necessity for prevention, early detection, and comprehensive care to enhance residents' well-being (US News).

Access to nutritious foods remains a significant challenge in Pike County. The county has 18 grocery stores serving its population, which may limit residents' ability to obtain fresh and healthy food option (KY By the Numbers, 2021). This limited access contributes to food insecurity,  affecting 21.3 percent (Feeding America.org, 2022) surpassing the state average for food insecurity of 15.7 percent and the national average of 13.5 percent as of 2022 (USDA.gov, 2023). Such food insecurity exacerbates health disparities and hinders efforts to promote healthier lifestyles.

The 2024 Pike County Cooperative Extension Community Assessment highlighted community concerns, ranking "ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable nutritious foods" as the third top priority and "reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise" as the sixth. In response, the Pike County Cooperative Extension Service is committed to addressing these issues through comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness programming aimed at supporting adult physical health and well-being.

Youth Focus

The well-being of youth in Pike County is of particular concern. The county's child poverty rate is alarmingly high at 32.2 percent, which is 35 percent higher than the state average an and 50 percent higher than the national average (WelfareInfo.gov). This poverty rate for people under 18 can negatively impact various aspects of a child's development, including their physical health. Additionally, the prevalence of overweight and obese children in Kentucky is 37.1%, ranking the state 48th nationally (Child Health Data.org). These factors contribute to increased risks of chronic diseases and highlight the need for targeted interventions.

Mental health is another critical area, with approximately 40% of households in Eastern Kentucky, including Pike County, reporting at least one mental health problem following a natural disaster (PubMed, 2025). The Pike County Extension Service Needs Assessment identified key priorities related to health and well-being, including the need for improved access to mental health resources, reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and exercise, and minimizing bullying and school violence. To address these challenges, Pike County 4-H offers programs focusing on the five domains of health and well-being: physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual. These initiatives aim to equip young people with essential skills and knowledge to lead healthier, more productive lives, thereby contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

Mental Health and Wellbeing in Pike County, KY

Residents of Pike County increasingly face mental health challenges, reflecting broader statewide concerns. 43% of Kentucky adults report symptoms of anxiety or depression over their lifetime, and suicide remains a leading cause of preventable death for those aged 10-34 and over 59.

The Pike County Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment (2023) highlights limited access to mental health care, lack of community support, and the need to reduce stigma. According to Kentucky By The Numbers (2022), county residents experience an average of 6.2 mentally unhealthy days per month, with 20.4% struggling with 14 or more days of poor mental health per month.

The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service in Pike County provides research-based resources that help reduce stigma, connect individuals with care, and empower residents to advocate for expanded mental health services, improving overall quality of life.

Youth Mental Health in Pike County

Mental health issues significantly impact Pike County’s youth, aligning with national trends showing 17% of individuals aged 6-17 experience mental health disorders, with only half receiving treatment (from National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2023).

Findings from the University of Kentucky Community Needs Assessment (2023) reinforce priorities such as expanding mental health resources, minimizing bullying, strengthening parenting skills, and enhancing social-emotional education for adults who work with youth. Additionally, 24% of Pike County adults rate their health as fair or poor, and 30% of children live below the poverty level, which increases stress and compounds mental health challenges.

Through 4-H youth programs, Pike County Cooperative Extension offers evidence-based education focused on positive mental health, self-care, and resilience-building. By equipping young people with decision-making and critical thinking skills, these initiatives foster emotional strength, reduce stigma, and create a foundation for lifelong wellbeing.

Connected and Resilient Communities

Pike County’s strong cultural identity and creative spirit provide a foundation for resilience, but according to the 2023 Pike County Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, expanding arts opportunities and public spaces for engagement remains a priority. Investing in collaborative learning, storytelling, and creative opportunities strengthens community ties, emotional well-being, and resiliency.

The Pike County Cooperative Extension Service invests in our community through programs that support creative problem-solving, art initiatives, and cultural and civic engagement. A connected community is better equipped to overcome challenges and empower residents to adapt, heal, connect, and grow.

Youth Focus

Pike County’s youth are essential to building a strong and resilient community. Developing social connections and problem-solving skills prepares young people to navigate challenges and contribute meaningfully to their community. The 2023 Community Needs Assessment emphasizes the importance of expanding arts programs, fostering engagement, and reducing school violence and bullying to support youth well-being.

Through 4-H youth programs, Pike County Cooperative Extension empowers young people with leadership, creative expression, and collaboration skills, ensuring they grow into engaged, adaptable citizens. Investing in youth helps shape a more connected, thriving future.

 

Long-Term Outcomes:

Family and Youth development:

• Increased meaningful social connections

• Increased kindergarten readiness rates in the county and state
• Improved quality of family life

Health and Wellbeing:

• Youth will increase contributions to their communities through applying critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication learning in the 4-H Health and Well-Being Core Content Area.

• Community environments that equitably support health-promoting behaviors where people live, learn, work, and play
• Improved quality of life

Mental Health and Wellbeing:

• Increased access to mental health care and resources for all

• Youth will increase contributions to their communities through applying critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication learning in 4-H Health and Well Being.

Connected and Resilient Communities:

• Improved quality of life through connection and civic engagement
• Communities become more socially connected and civically engaged through inclusive cultural events.

Intermediate Outcomes:

Family and Youth development:

• Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy community, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together.

Health and Wellbeing:

• 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.   

• Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family, community, and occupational health and safety

Mental Health and Wellbeing:

• Increased use of self-care and other coping strategies

• 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.  

Connected and Resilient Communities:

• Increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs.
• Residents strengthen local connections and engage in new community efforts following the event. 

Initial Outcomes:

Family and Youth Development:

• Increased awareness of community resources to support healthy families.

• Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., reading to your child, spending time together, self-care, caregiver preparation, active living).

Health and Wellbeing: 

• Increased knowledge and awareness of healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers. 

• Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors.

Mental Health and Wellbeing:

• Increased knowledge of self-care and other coping strategies
• Increased knowledge of general wellness practices 

Connected and Resilient Communities:

• Improved awareness of civic engagement opportunities.
• Participants report a greater sense of belonging and pride in their community. 

Evaluation:

Family and Youth Development:

Outcome: Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy communication, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together. (intermediate)

Indicator: 

1. Number of participants who reported they enhanced healthy relationships.
2. Number of participants who reported that they extended any type of support to another parent, grandparent, older adult, or relative raising a child.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress.

 

Health and Wellbeing:

Outcome: Short Term

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in health or wellbeing initiatives in their community. 
2. Number of youth who reported that they understand the importance of habits or choices that promote health and wellbeing.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they learned ways to be physically active  
4. Number of youth who reported that they learned how physical activity contributes to overall health 
5. Number of youth who reported that they learned how food impacts their overall health. 
6. Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in health and wellbeing that fits their interest.  

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey

Timeline: Immediately after program/event 

 

Outcome: Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors (e.g., how to prepare nutritious foods, benefits of routine vaccinations/screenings) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Observation by Agent or self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration 

 

Outcome: Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family and community health (e.g., physical activity, consuming nutritious foods, routine vaccinations and screenings) (intermediate)

Indicator: 

Number of physical activity minutes recorded by a participant

Number of participants who reported consuming more nutritious foods and/or beverages

Number of participants who reported a change in a health-promoting behavior as a result of participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Self-reported surveys

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

 

Mental Health and Wellbeing:

Outcome: Increased use of self-care and other coping strategies

Indicator: Number of participants who adopted self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and well-being.

Method: Follow-up survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered at least 3-6 months after a program

 

Outcome: Short Term 

Indicator: 

1. Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and wellbeing for youth in the community.
2. Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns.
3. Number of youth who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.
4. Number of youth who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.
5. Number of youth who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
6. Number of participants in?arts or design-based community programs?(e.g., story circles, murals, design charettes, creative placemaking) who reported increased connection or belonging. 
7. Number of participants who reported experiencing?stronger ties to their community?as a result of participating in Extension arts programming with others.  

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Immediately post-program

 

Connected and Resilient Communities:

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: 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

Learning Opportunities:

Family and Youth Development:

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Communication/Relationships Across the Lifespan

Content or Curriculum: Pathways to Wellness, Faithful Families, Story Walks, Shared Space Agreements, Trail development, Active Community Toolkit, Be More Guide, resources for early care and education settings, food system work (e.g., farmers’ markets, backpack programs, community gardens), SNAP-Ed toolkit; Memory Banking/Life Story; Keys to Embracing Aging; AARP Prepare to Care; Kick Kentucky Cancer; Living with Loss; Mental Health Matters; In the Face of Disaster Toolkit; How to Help Military Families; Understanding Risky Adolescent Behavior and Healthy Brain Development; WITS Workout; Grandparents and Grandchildren Together.

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, grant funds, local organizations and community partners, health coalitions, Nutrition Education Program, local farms/growers/producers, key stakeholders, elected officials, Department of Transportation, employee health and wellness, schools, etc.

Date: Ongoing

 

Health and Wellbeing:

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation

Content or Curriculum: Wellness in Kentucky

Inputs: 

1. 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.  
2. Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
3. Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs 

Date: September 1 – August 30 

 

Audience: Families & Individuals

Project or Activity: Nutrition Education

Content or Curriculum: Nutrition Education Program, SNAP-Ed toolkit, Publications, Faithful Families, Cook Together Eat Together, Savor the Flavor, Dining with Diabetes, Plate it up! Kentucky Proud, Cook Wild Ky, Food as Health Toolkit, Recovery Garden Toolkit, Family Mealtime, maternal and child health program materials,

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, faith-based organization, health coalitions, healthcare Providers and local clinics, health department, non-profits, schools, company health and wellness, Homemakers, farmers’ markets, local farms/growers/producers, commodity groups, community centers, etc. 

Date: Ongoing

 

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Family & Community Health

Content or Curriculum: Publications, presentations, trainings, demonstrations, Health Bulletins, Pathways to Wellness, resources for early care and education settings, Health Literacy for the Win, Health Family Guides, Healthy Homemakers, Vaccine and on-site clinic opportunities, chronic disease prevention programs and materials, health fairs, hygiene education

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, health coalitions, healthcare providers, health departments, non-profits, faith-based organizations, schools, company health & wellness, community centers, etc. 

Date: Ongoing

 

Mental Health and Wellbeing:

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Promoting Well-being

Content or Curriculum: MARK (Mind, Art, Recovery, Kentucky), Take a Beat: Healing Hearts and Minds, Handling Farm Stress: A Workshop for New and Beginning Farmers, Mindfulness Trails, Yoga-ta Try This (KEHA lesson), Self-care programming, Mindfulness programming, Recovery Gardens, Mental Health and Wellbeing Series, The Mind-Body Connection

Inputs: Programmatic materials, state specialist support, staff training, facilities, community partners (health coalitions, schools, local non-profits, etc.) UK Healthcare mental health resources, 988 community resources.

Date: Ongoing; 2025-2029

 

Audience: 4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele 

Project or Activity: Community, Access & Engagement Programs

Content or Curriculum: 4-H LIFE utilizes the curriculum Essential Elements which is sourced from Shop 4-H. Additional curriculum and content is sourced from Shop 4-H and other Land Grant Systems. Content for Adelante 4-H has been developed by the Land Grant System and sourced from other Land Grant systems. Content for Jr. MANRRS is sourced from the MANRRS society. All curriculum and content focuses on building community, as well as increasing access and engagement of youth. 

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: Program Year

 

Connected and Resilient Communities: 

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: Building Connection in Communities

Content or Curriculum: SPARK! toolkit, Placemaking Toolkit, Community Design publications, Community Arts publications, CLD publications, Building Community Pop-Up Toolkit, Creative Community Projects toolkit, Community Mural toolkit, Story Circles, curriculum, trainings, continuing education, Civic Engagement publications, Coalition and Network building publications

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

Date: Ongoing

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: Extension-supported community festival celebrating music, heritage, or arts

Content or Curriculum: SPARK! toolkit, Placemaking Toolkit, Community Arts publications

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

Date: Ongoing

Evaluation:

Family and Youth Development:

Outcome: Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy communication, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together. (intermediate)

Indicator: 

1. Number of participants who reported they enhanced healthy relationships.
2. Number of participants who reported that they extended any type of support to another parent, grandparent, older adult, or relative raising a child.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress.

 

Health and Wellbeing:

Outcome: Short Term

Indicator: 

1. Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in health or wellbeing initiatives in their community. 
2. Number of youth who reported that they understand the importance of habits or choices that promote health and wellbeing.  
3. Number of youth who reported that they learned ways to be physically active  
4. Number of youth who reported that they learned how physical activity contributes to overall health 
5. Number of youth who reported that they learned how food impacts their overall health. 
6. Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in health and wellbeing that fits their interest.  

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey

Timeline: Immediately after program/event 

 

Outcome: Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors (e.g., how to prepare nutritious foods, benefits of routine vaccinations/screenings) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported/demonstrates improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding a health-promoting behavior as a result of a participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Observation by Agent or self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration 

 

Outcome: Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family and community health (e.g., physical activity, consuming nutritious foods, routine vaccinations and screenings) (intermediate)

Indicator: 

Number of physical activity minutes recorded by a participant

Number of participants who reported consuming more nutritious foods and/or beverages

Number of participants who reported a change in a health-promoting behavior as a result of participating in a health and well-being program

Method: Self-reported surveys

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

 

Mental Health and Wellbeing:

Outcome: Increased use of self-care and other coping strategies

Indicator: Number of participants who adopted self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and well-being.

Method: Follow-up survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered at least 3-6 months after a program

 

Outcome: Short Term 

Indicator: 

1. Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and wellbeing for youth in the community.
2. Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns.
3. Number of youth who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing.
4. Number of youth who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community.
5. Number of youth who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
6. Number of participants in?arts or design-based community programs?(e.g., story circles, murals, design charettes, creative placemaking) who reported increased connection or belonging. 
7. Number of participants who reported experiencing?stronger ties to their community?as a result of participating in Extension arts programming with others.  

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Immediately post-program

 

Connected and Resilient Communities:

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: 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