Cumberland County CES

County Emphasis:

Foundations for a Thriving Future

Concentration 1:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Concentration 2:

Family and Youth Development

Concentration 3:

Mental Health and Well-Being

Concentration 4:

Health and Wellbeing

Situation:

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.

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.

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.

Youth Focus

Kentucky’s youth population deserves safe and nurturing environments that foster their growth and wellbeing. Unfortunately, mental health challenges affect a significant portion of our youth, with 17% of those aged 6-17 experiencing mental health disorders, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (2023), and only 50% receiving treatment. The impact is profound, with one person in the U.S. dying by suicide every 11 minutes, and in Kentucky alone, 800 lives were lost to suicide in 2022. Recognizing the urgency, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service’s 2019 and 2023 statewide programming issue surveys highlighted mental health and wellbeing as priority areas. Nationally, 45% of 4-H participants reported high stress in a 2023 survey by 4-H.org. The University of Kentucky Community Needs Assessment (2023) indicates priorities of improve access to mental

health and wellbeing resources, minimizing bullying and/or school violence, stronger parenting and relationship-building skills, and social, emotional, and/or behavioral education for adults working with youth. To address these concerns, the 4-H Program provides evidence-based educational programs focused on positive mental health and self-care, aiming to empower youth with decision-making and critical thinking skills, fostering resilience and overall wellbeing. By emphasizing mental health and offering targeted educational initiatives, we can create a brighter future for Kentucky’s youth.

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.

Youth Focus

Thriving youth are healthy, productive, and engaged (Arnold, 2024). According to Kentucky Kids Count Database (AECF, 2023) 41% of Kentucky teenagers are obese or overweight. Youth are also experiencing alarming levels of negativity about themselves, their confidence in the future, and their ability to find contentment in life (McKinsey & Company, 2022). 30% of youth are chronically absent (United States Department of Education, 2024). The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Needs Assessment (2024) identified key priorities issues related to health and wellbeing as need for improved access to mental health and wellbeing resources, reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise, minimizing bullying and/or school violence. To address these issues, Kentucky 4-H creates opportunities for youth in the five domains of physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual health and well-being.

County Situation:

Cumberland County, located in south-central Kentucky, faces unique challenges that impact the health, well-being, and resilience of its residents. According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2023), nearly 20% of Cumberland County’s population lives in poverty, exceeding the state average. Additionally, only 69.2% of households have broadband access, which limits digital learning, remote work, and access to telehealth—key challenges identified in the 2023 Kentucky Extension Community Needs Assessment, where residents prioritized improved broadband and digital literacy.

Social isolation and limited access to mental health resources further exacerbate these issues. More than 43% of adults in Kentucky report symptoms of anxiety or depression, and suicide remains a leading cause of death among youth and older adults. In Cumberland County, where 25% of the population is over age 65, these challenges are even more pressing. The UK Needs Assessment further revealed a local desire to increase access to mental health resources, strengthen parenting skills, and enhance safe, public gathering spaces.

Youth in Cumberland County mirror many state and national trends. According to the Kentucky Kids Count Database, 41% of teens are overweight or obese, and chronic absenteeism exceeds 30%. These figures reflect barriers to healthy living, physical activity, and consistent school engagement. Young people are also navigating elevated stress and declining optimism, aligning with national findings from the 4-H.org 2023 Youth Survey.

In response, the Cumberland County Cooperative Extension Service is leveraging its programs to strengthen community connections and promote well-being. Through initiatives that teach digital literacy, healthy lifestyles, mental health awareness, and family resilience, Extension helps build a more connected and adaptive community. 

By addressing these documented local needs, Extension serves as a catalyst for long-term resilience and equitable opportunity in Cumberland County.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Adult

1. Increased digital access improves economic and educational opportunities.
2. Communities recover faster from disasters/economic disruptions
3. Sustained investment in public spaces strengthens local economies
4. Cultural heritage is preserved and integrated into communities
5. Expanded partnerships enhance problem-solving and resource-sharing
6. Improved quality of life through connection and civic engagement
7. Reduced incidence of mental health crises and suicide
8. Increased access to mental health care and resources for all
9. Routinely meeting guidelines and recommendations for health behaviors that promote wellness and quality of life
10. Community environments that equitably support health-promoting behaviors where people live, learn, work, and play
11. Increased availability and accessibility to community-based health resources
12. Reduced rate and burden of non-communicable chronic diseases and injury
13. Decreased health disparity prevalence in Kentucky counties
14. Improved quality of life

 

Youth

1. Youth will demonstrate necessary leadership, teamwork, and communication skills needed to be successful in the workplace.
2. Youth participation in community involvement increases.
3. Youth will serve in leadership roles in their community. 
4. Youth will more effectively communicate, work with others, and contribute to driving change and shaping the future.
5. Increased meaningful social connections
6. Increased support network
7. Increased kindergarten readiness rates in the county and state
8. Increased caregiver preparation
9. Improved quality of family life
10. Kentucky 4-H members report a reduced number of youth that are considering suicide.  
11. Increased number of 4-Hers who pursue mental health & well-being employment.  
12. Youth will increase contributions to their communities through applying critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication learning in 4-H Health and Well Being.
13. Kentucky 4-H members report decreased obesity.    
14. Increased number of 4-Hers who pursue employment in the health and wellbeing field. 
15. 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.

Intermediate Outcomes:

Adult

1. More citizens adopt digital tools for work and daily life.
2. Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
3. More public spaces are revitalized for community engagement.
4. Increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs.
5. More individuals engage in local governance and civic groups.
6. New partnerships and networks address community challenges
7. Increased use of de-stigmatized language
8. Increased use of self-care and other coping strategies
9. Increased advocacy for mental health and wellbeing resources
10. Increased partnerships (number or strength) to address mental health and wellbeing issues within the community
11. Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family, community, and occupational health and safety
12. Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health or safety issues
13. Increased organizational/site/community support for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health or safety issues

Youth

1. Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.
2. Youth will plan and implement a service project.
3. Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy community, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together.
4. Enhanced community partnership that equitably support family health (e.g., FRISC, Health Depart., DAIL, AAA,)
5. 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.    
6. Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to mental health and wellbeing among 4-Hers.
7. 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.   
8. Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to health and well-being among 4-Hers.  
9. 4-H members will increase physical activity. 

Initial Outcomes:

Adult

1. Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources.
2. Improved understanding of disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
3. Greater awareness of the benefits of public spaces.
4. Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity.
5. Improved awareness of civic engagement opportunities.
6. Greater knowledge of community partnerships and collaboration strategies
7. Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern
8. Increased ability to use de-stigmatized language
9. Increased knowledge of self-care and other coping strategies
10. Increased knowledge of mental health and well-being resources (interpersonal and community-based)
11. Health promoting behaviors include but are not to, regular physical activity, safe preparation and consumption of nutritious foods, vaccinations, moderate or no consumption of alcohol, avoiding/reducing/eliminating tobacco use, health screenings, sleep, stress management, health literacy, pest prevention/reduction/management, and occupational safety.
12. Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors.
13. Increased awareness of community resources to support health-promoting behaviors.
14. Increased confidence in making decisions related to health-promoting behaviors.
15. Improved skills related to health-promoting behaviors

 

Youth

1. Youth identify personal strengths that contribute to leadership skill development (communication, teamwork, civic engagement).
2. Youth successfully worked in a team environment to accomplish a task. 
3. Youth realize how their actions impact others. 
4. Strengthening family behaviors include, but are not limited to, spending time together, creating safe environments, engaging in positive communication, building supportive networks, showing appreciation, healthy stress management, engaging in regular selfcare, and adopting a positive outlook.
5. Increased knowledge about nurturing parenting and caregiving across the life span.
6. Increased awareness of community resources to support healthy families.
7. Increased confidence making decisions related to parenting and caregiving.
8. Increased confidence and motivation to reduce loneliness and social isolation.
9. Improved skills related to nurturing parenting and caregiver support
10. Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., reading to your child, spending time together, self-care, caregiver preparation, active living).
11. Increased knowledge of positive mental health practices  
12. Increased knowledge and awareness of healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
13. Improved attitudes and beliefs towards healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
14. Increased knowledge of general wellness practices 
15. Increased knowledge of positive mental health practices  
16. Increased knowledge and awareness of healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
17. Improved attitudes and beliefs towards healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  
18. Increased knowledge of general wellness practices

Evaluation:

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: More public spaces are revitalized for community engagement (int)

Indicator: Number of individuals who reported that they contributed to efforts to improve public spaces through design, revitalization, or development (e.g., parks, community gathering areas, public art, creative placemaking projects) as a direct result of Extension-supported initiatives.

Method: Site visits, surveys, photo documentation, and community feedback.

Timeline: Tracked annually.

Outcome: Short Term 4-H Camp

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported that they take responsibility for their actions.   

Number of youth who reported 4-H Camp improved their ability to manage their emotions. 

Method: Survey 

Timeline: End of Camp

Outcome: Increased knowledge about nurturing parenting and caregiver support across the lifespan (e.g., how often you read to your child, benefits of spending time together, identifying selfcare behaviors, enhance communication) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported increased knowledge of nurturing parenting and/or caregiver support practices.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Enhanced community partnerships that equitably support family health (e.g., FRISC, Health Depart., DAIL, AAA,)(intermediate)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported seeking support from local community organizations and/or its individual member.

Method: Self-reported surveys

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

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

Indicator: 

Number of participants who reported they enhanced healthy relationships.

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.

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

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

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered immediately after a program

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

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Individuals

Project or Activity: Digital Literacy Initiatives

Content or Curriculum: Digital Literacy curriculum, Kentucky By the Numbers, CEDIK data profiles, publications, training, continuing education

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

Date: Ongoing

Audience: Individuals

Project or Activity: Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery

Content or Curriculum: EDEN materials, KHERN publications, trainings, continuing education

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

Date: Ongoing

Audience: 4-Hers, Professional Staff, Clientele 

Project or Activity: 4-H Issues Conference 

Content or Curriculum: Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, and civic engagement. In addition to these sources are the vetted sources of iCivics.org, CommonSense.org, and PBS Learning Media. 

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: 4-Hers, Professional Staff, & Clientele

Project or Activity: 4-H Civic Education, Engagement, & Service

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, civic engagement, and service. In addition to these sources are the vetted sources of iCivics.org, CommonSense.org, and PBS Learning Media, US Citizenship & Immigration Services

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 

Audience: 4-Hers, Professional Staff, & Clientele

Project or Activity: 4-H Capitol Experience

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, civic engagement, and service. In addition to these sources are the vetted sources of 4-H Capitol Experience Handbook and Facilitator Guide, iCivics.org, CommonSense.org, and PBS Learning Media. 

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: Winter 

Audience: 4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele

Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Science, Engineering and Technology Programs: Tractor, Energy and Climate Project, Small Engine, Robotics, Computer Science, Rocketry

Content or Curriculum: 

Purdue 4-H Tractor Series Curriculum 

National 4-H The Power of Wind Curriculum, National 4-H Weather and Climate Curriculum National Energy Education Development (N.E.E.D.) Curriculum 

National 4-H Small Engine Curriculum  

National 4-H Junk Drawer Robotics Curriculum, Sphero.edu Web Based Curriculum, Ozobot and Ozoblockly Web Based Curriculum 

National 4-H Discovering Computer Science Curriculum, National 4-H WearTec Curriculum, Hour of Code Web Based Curriculum, University of Illinois 4-H Esports Curriculum, Apple Community Education Initiative 

National 4-H Aerospace Adventures Curriculum, NASA Educators Curriculum, National Association of Rocketry (NAR) 

Inputs: 

4-H programs in energy usage and sources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful.   

Educated 4-H Agents, Program assistants and volunteers in 4-H Petroleum Power Curriculum.  

Accredited volunteers in SET.  

Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.  

Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  

Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.  

Engagement of volunteers and youth in delivering the programs and leading clubs.  

Engagement of communities in identifying and implementing programming based on meeting local needs.   

External stakeholder engagement and support such as Tractor and Farm Equipment dealers and industries in Kentucky. 

Date: Program Year

Audience: Youth 

Project or Activity: 4-H Camp

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H, the Land Grant System and American Camp Association.

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.  

Date: 4-H Program Year

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Caregiver Support

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Family Caregiver Health Bulletins, Faithful Families, Story Walks, Health and Wellness Ambassadors, Share Space Agreements, Health Coalitions, Be More, WIN, Health Partners, Bingocize, Walk Your Way, Families on the Move, County Walking Challenges; Nutrition for Older Adults, AARP Prepare to Care, In the Face of Disaster Toolkit; Living with Loss; Indoor Air Quality; Strong Bones for Life: Prevent Osteoporosis and Nourish Your Bones and Joints; Understanding and Coping with Farm Stress; Understanding Suicide; Savvy Online Grocery Shopping; Pathways to Wellness; Inspiring Grandchildren to Become Grand Cooks; Health Literacy for the Win; Tips for Managing Stress Eating; Estate Planning; Transferring Cherished Possessions; Emergency Health Information Cards; Time Well Spent; Consumer Protection; Scams; Masting Mindfulness; Eating for Health; Food as Health; Food Safety; Making Health Lifestyle Choices (Nutrition); Healthy Bladder Habits; Kick Kentucky Caner; Mental Health and Well-Being Series; Stand Up to Falling; The Mind/Body Connection; General Housing—Accessibility and Lighting; Keys to Embracing Aging; Mental Health Matters; How to Help Military Families; 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s; Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease; WITS Workout

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

Date: Ongoing/seasonal

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Kindergarten Readiness

Content or Curriculum: Laugh and Learn Playdates, Understanding Disability, Information Releases, and Publications

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, faith-based organizations, HeadStart/daycare organizations, healthcare providers and local clinics, health department, non-profits, schools, Homemakers, community centers, etc.

Date: Ongoing

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: Mental Health Access and Advocacy  

Content or Curriculum: BARN (Bringing Awareness Right Now) Farm Dinner Theater, Pathways to Wellness, Building and Maintaining Health Coalitions

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: Families & Individuals

Project or Activity: Physical Activity

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Faithful Families, Story Walks, Health and wellness Ambassadors, Shared Space Agreements, Health Coalitions, WIN, Health Partners, Bingocize, Walk Your Way, Families on the Move, County Walking Challenges, Mindfulness Trails, Fit Tips, Hiking for Health

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

Date: Ongoing/seasonal

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation 

Content or Curriculum: Jump Into Food and Fitness 

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  

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: September 1 – August 30 

Evaluation:

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: More public spaces are revitalized for community engagement (int)

Indicator: Number of individuals who reported that they contributed to efforts to improve public spaces through design, revitalization, or development (e.g., parks, community gathering areas, public art, creative placemaking projects) as a direct result of Extension-supported initiatives.

Method: Site visits, surveys, photo documentation, and community feedback.

Timeline: Tracked annually.

Outcome: Short Term 4-H Camp

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported that they take responsibility for their actions.   

Number of youth who reported 4-H Camp improved their ability to manage their emotions. 

Method: Survey 

Timeline: End of Camp

Outcome: Increased knowledge about nurturing parenting and caregiver support across the lifespan (e.g., how often you read to your child, benefits of spending time together, identifying selfcare behaviors, enhance communication) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported increased knowledge of nurturing parenting and/or caregiver support practices.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Enhanced community partnerships that equitably support family health (e.g., FRISC, Health Depart., DAIL, AAA,)(intermediate)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported seeking support from local community organizations and/or its individual member.

Method: Self-reported surveys

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

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

Indicator: 

Number of participants who reported they enhanced healthy relationships.

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.

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

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

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

Timeline: On-going; Surveys should be administered immediately after a program

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