Calloway County CES

County Emphasis:

Enhancing the health and well-being of rural communities through strategic collaboration, effective communication, strengthened community connections, increased access to local food, and the sustainable development of small businesses and family farms.

Concentration 1:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Concentration 2:

Health and Wellbeing

Concentration 3:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access

Concentration 4:

Small Farm Development

Situation:

Connected & Rural 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.

 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.

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.

 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.

Food Safety, Quality, and Access:

It is proven that people who have access to and consume their daily dietary requirements of fresh fruits and vegetables are less likely to suffer from chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease and have an increased quality of life. Having the knowledge and skills to prepare or preserve fresh fruits and vegetables presents an additional barrier beyond obtaining fresh food access.

 With the goal of increasing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) aims to increase access to fresh food, as well as increase knowledge and awareness of how to select, store, safely prepare, process, and preserve these foods. CES prioritizes statewide partnership development that helps us meet our goals and objectives. We collaborate with statewide agencies including Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Community Farm Alliance, KY Farm to School Network, Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife and others to help build statewide systems that increase access and usage of fresh fruits and vegetables. These programs benefit Kentuckians because they support food access policy, systems and environmental changes in communities and across the state. They increase knowledge of how to grow, prepare, and preserve fresh fruits and vegetables.

 Youth Focus

 Kentucky faces significant health and economic challenges, with five of the top ten causes of death being nutrition-related. According to the Obesity Action Coalition the cost of obesity reached $36.31 billion. The rapidly changing social and economic landscape underscores the need for a healthy, productive, and engaged young people to contribute to a prepared workforce and engaged community to tackle these challenges. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System's 2023 Community Needs Assessment identifies critical priorities, including access to affordable nutritious food, reducing youth obesity through improved nutrition and exercise, and enhancing youth wellbeing through effective coping strategies. Kentucky 4-H plays a crucial role in addressing these needs by equipping young people with essential skills in nutrition, culinary arts, financial education, and entrepreneurship. 69% of youth reported that they learned about healthy food choices in 4-H. 4-H youth report an increase in preparing meals together as a family, increase in meals eaten as a family, and confidence in the kitchen. These programs not only foster healthier, more resilient individuals, but also contribute to the development of engaged citizens prepared to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Small Farm Development: 

Small farm development is a crucial aspect of the Kentucky agricultural sector, especially in the context of supporting rural economies and ensuring food security. The National

 Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) defines a small farm as an operation with a gross cash farm income of $250,000 or less. These farms are typically family-owned and operated, and they represent more than 90 percent of farms in the U.S. These farms face challenges such as urbanization, an aging farmer population, farm consolidation, new and beginning farmers, and changing climate patterns.

 Small farms play a vital role in the competitiveness and sustainability of rural and farm economies, protecting and enhancing natural resources and the environment, and maintaining rural populations. Urban small scale farm production is an emerging and fast grow segment of farm economies. The development and sustainability of small farms is important in providing a nursery for new enterprises and marketing systems, which is crucial for innovation and diversification in agriculture. Small farm development can be hindered by access to capital, markets, and technology. Additionally, owners of small farms may lack the knowledge or resources to implement sustainable practices that could improve their economic viability and environmental stewardship.

 Kentucky Cooperative Extension will continue to aid small farm owners by providing educational opportunities and increasing awareness of resources offered through various programs and online platforms. This includes developing new and improved practices to reduce production costs, protect and improve soil and water resources, and offer options for specialty crop production. Extension personnel will also promote whole farm plans, estate planning, farm transitions, risk management, and market opportunities.

 The development of small farms is imperative for the health of Kentucky’s agricultural sector, rural communities and emerge urban agriculture.

County Situation:

Calloway County, Kentucky, is a rural community rooted in agriculture, small business, and strong family values. However, like many rural regions across the Commonwealth, it faces ongoing challenges that impact the health, economic stability, and social well-being of its residents. Issues such as limited access to healthcare providers, nutritious local food, broadband connectivity, and sustainable business development affect the daily lives of families and individuals. According to the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment (2023), top concerns in Calloway County include improving access to local food, supporting small farms and businesses, and increasing opportunities for youth engagement and wellness.

To address these challenges, UK Cooperative Extension in Calloway County is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of the community through collaboration, connection, communication, increased local food access, and support for the sustainable growth of small businesses and family farms. By connecting residents to resources that promote physical and mental wellness, supporting digital and economic inclusion, and fostering a thriving local food system, Extension is working to build a more resilient and self-reliant county.

Programs focus on strengthening community partnerships, supporting beginning farmers and entrepreneurs, educating families on nutrition and food preservation, and creating safe, inclusive spaces for youth to grow. Initiatives such as local produce distribution, 4-H health and leadership programs, and farm management workshops exemplify how collaboration and access lead to healthier communities.

With an intentional, place-based approach, Calloway County Extension aims to empower families, youth, farmers, and local leaders to create a sustainable future. These efforts not only improve individual and community well-being but also contribute to the long-term vitality of rural Kentucky.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Increased digital access improves economic and educational opportunities.

Sustained investment in public spaces strengthens local economies

Cultural heritage is preserved and integrated into communities

Expanded partnerships enhance problem-solving and resource-sharing

Youth participation in community involvement increases.?

Individuals and families of all incomes levels have access to affordable and nutritious foods

Family farms become economically viable.

Kentucky’s local food and agriculture industry are thriving.

Decrease in the number of Kentuckians with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease.

More Kentuckians routinely met the guidelines for the consumption of (locally-grown) fresh fruits and vegetables.

Achieve a stable economic environment where small farms are consistently profitable and competitive within both local and broader markets. 

Establish networks of urban farms that are integral to their local food systems, providing fresh produce and fostering urban-rural agricultural links. 

Strive to have all participating small farms fully implement sustainable practices that protect and enhance natural resources. 

Equip small farms to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of changing climate patterns, ensuring their sustainability and resilience. 

Enhance the role of small farms in maintaining rural populations and contributing to cultural heritage, ensuring that these communities remain vibrant and connected.

Intermediate Outcomes:

More public spaces are revitalized for community engagement.

More individuals engage in local governance and civic groups.

New partnerships and networks address community challenge

Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.??

Youth will plan and implement a service project.

Increase in the number of farmers’ markets and local food retailers that accept one or more food benefits as payment.

Improved dietary habits through: consumption of more fruits and vegetables, a variety of proteins and the number of meals prepared at home.

Increased number of entrepreneurial food businesses

Assist small farm owners in developing and implementing comprehensive whole farm plans that address financial, production, and environmental aspects.

Support the establishment of new farm enterprises that can offer innovative products and practices, enhancing the economic resilience of the small farm sector.

Provide robust support for estate planning and farm transitions to ensure the longevity of small farms across generations.

Develop and disseminate advanced risk management tools and insurance products tailored for the unique needs of small farms.

Increase the accessibility of modern agricultural technologies to small farms, coupled with training programs that enable owners to effectively use these technologies. 

Initial Outcomes:

Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources.

Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity.

Improved awareness of civic engagement opportunities.

Greater knowledge of community partnerships and collaboration strategies

Youth successfully worked in a team environment to accomplish a task.??

Youth realize how their actions impact others.

Increased awareness of Extension resources and programs supporting food access.

Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation.

Increased participation in Homebased Micro processing workshops.

Increased awareness and accessibility of community resources available to access fresh foods.

Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, healthy eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.).

Develop and launch targeted educational programs that focus on sustainable practices, risk management, and cost reduction specifically tailored for small farm owners.

Increase access to existing resources and tools including online platforms to increase awareness and usability for small farm owners.

Facilitate connections between small farm owners and local markets, including urban markets, to help diversify sales channels and improve income stability.

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: Increased awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. (initial)

Indicator: 

Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 

Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 

Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources. 

Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.  

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation, Champion Food Volunter Leader Training; the Learning Kitchen Participant follow-up eval. TBD; # of certified Champion Food Volunteers in each county;

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

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: Increased organizational/site/community supports for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health and safety issues (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of projects or initiatives working to improve a community health or safety issue

Method: Documentation (direct observation, photo, repeated survey) or interviews

Timeline: Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress

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: Short Term (SET Programs) 

Indicator: Number of youth who reported that they learned critical thinking skills in SET programs/projects.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Immediately post program 

Outcome: Medium Term (SET Programs)

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported that they can apply critical thinking skills that they learned in SET programs/projects in other areas of their life.   

Number of youth who reported that they have used knowledge and/or skills gained to complete a SET project.  

Method: Survey 

Timeline: End of Program Year

Outcome: Long Term (SET Programs)

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Survey 

Timeline: 1+ years 

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Individuals & Farmers

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, Food as Health Toolkit, Family Mealtime, maternal and child health program materials, www.planeatmove.com, Super Star Chef, Farm to School, Hunger in Kentucky

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, faith-based organizations, health coalitions, healthcare Providers and local clinics, health department, non-profits, schools, company health & wellness, 4-H, Homemakers, farmers’ markets, local farmers/growers/producers, commodity groups, community centers, etc. 

Dates: Ongoing

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: Non-commercial urban and community gardeners 

Project or Activity: Programming for specialty crop production and management that is non-commercial 

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Fact Sheets, Workshops, Field Days, County Meetings, Regional Meetings, Field Visits, emails and phone calls 

Inputs: Extension Specialists, Kentucky Horticulture Council, USDA funding, Dept of Labor funding, county agents, KDA, professional member organizations, community advocacy and faith-based groups, schools 

Dates: TBA

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

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: Increased awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. (initial)

Indicator: 

Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 

Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 

Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources. 

Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.  

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation, Champion Food Volunter Leader Training; the Learning Kitchen Participant follow-up eval. TBD; # of certified Champion Food Volunteers in each county;

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

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: Increased organizational/site/community supports for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health and safety issues (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of projects or initiatives working to improve a community health or safety issue

Method: Documentation (direct observation, photo, repeated survey) or interviews

Timeline: Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress

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: Short Term (SET Programs) 

Indicator: Number of youth who reported that they learned critical thinking skills in SET programs/projects.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Immediately post program 

Outcome: Medium Term (SET Programs)

Indicator: 

Number of youth who reported that they can apply critical thinking skills that they learned in SET programs/projects in other areas of their life.   

Number of youth who reported that they have used knowledge and/or skills gained to complete a SET project.  

Method: Survey 

Timeline: End of Program Year

Outcome: Long Term (SET Programs)

Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study. 

Method: Survey 

Timeline: 1+ years