Grayson County CES

County Emphasis:

Strengthening Community Relationships

Concentration 1:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Concentration 2:

Family and Youth Development

Concentration 3:

Building Leadership Capacity

Situation:

Kentucky’s communities face distinct challenges that call for stronger connectivity, resilience, and leadership. Broadband access, especially in rural areas, remains essential for closing digital gaps that hinder economic and educational opportunities. The 2023 Community Needs Assessment highlighted improved broadband and digital literacy as key priorities for community resilience. In response, UK Extension supports local economies through initiatives that promote digital literacy, public space safety, and disaster preparedness, all of which strengthen social cohesion and economic sustainability.

Family and Youth Development programs foster healthy, supportive environments by offering activities and workshops that build strong family bonds and critical life skills. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, these efforts address social and emotional needs across the lifespan, promoting resilience and well-being—issues ranked among the top 15 statewide concerns.

Leadership development is also vital. The need to build leadership capacity—formal and informal—was a major theme in the state’s needs assessment. UK Extension focuses on preparing individuals for leadership and volunteer roles, enhancing local nonprofit and community capabilities. Training helps identify and empower emerging leaders, ensuring communities are equipped with the vision and skills needed to thrive.

Together, these efforts—digital inclusion, family support, and leadership development—form a foundation for resilient, connected, and forward-looking Kentucky communities.

Youth Focus

4-H opportunities profoundly impact individuals and communities in Kentucky by equipping youth with essential skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, fostering personal leadership, and community engagement. Skills like analytical thinking, creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, and adaptability are key to future employment (World Economic Forum, 2023). 77% of employers say that there should be less focus on traditional school subjects and more focus on real-world skills (Kauffman Foundation, 2021). In the 2023 University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Needs Assessment youth life skill training opportunities (such as leadership and communication skill opportunities), strengthening youth workforce readiness, and strengthening youth-adult or mentorship relationships were top priorities across Kentucky. According to the National 4-H Annual Index Survey (2024), 95% of youth identified their strengths through 4-H, 80% explored career options, and 50% received guidance for college decisions. Additionally, 75% enjoyed helping their community, and 93% felt inspired by 4-H, with 42% being inspired “a lot” to volunteer. These experiences build leadership capacity, promote civic engagement, and create connected, resilient communities by encouraging critical thinking and empathy. Furthermore, 4-H offers life skill training, strengthens youth workforce readiness, fosters mentorship, maximizes youth voice in important issues, and enhances peer-peer relationships.

County Situation:

Grayson County faces unique challenges that call for enhanced connectivity, resilience, and local leadership development. In rural areas like Grayson, limited broadband access continues to hinder economic growth and educational equity. The 2023 Community Needs Assessment identified improving digital access and literacy as top priorities for strengthening community resilience. In response, the University of Kentucky Extension supports initiatives in Grayson County that expand broadband use, promote digital skills, improve outdoor public spaces, and implement place-based disaster preparedness programs—helping the community better withstand economic shifts and natural disasters.

Family and Youth Development programs in Grayson County play a vital role in building supportive environments for all ages. Through structured activities and educational workshops, Extension helps families develop stronger bonds and equips individuals with essential life skills. Guided by the National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, these programs address social and emotional needs, promoting mental wellness and personal growth—key concerns identified by local residents.

Leadership development is also a pressing need in Grayson County. The needs assessment emphasized the importance of preparing community members for leadership and volunteer roles, and building the capacity of local nonprofits and civic organizations. UK Extension is actively working to strengthen leadership skills and confidence among emerging local leaders. Volunteer training further supports long-term engagement and community involvement.

Together, these efforts are building a stronger, more connected, and more resilient Grayson County—equipped to face current challenges and prepare for a brighter future.

Long-Term Outcomes:

Adult

Strong leadership pool for community boards and organizations

Strong boards and organizations accomplish more in the community

Increased community pride or investment

Improved local economy

Improved quality of life for citizens

Increased support network

Increased kindergarten readiness rates in the county and state

Expanded partnerships enhance problem-solving and resource-sharing

Improved quality of life through connection and civic engagement

 

Youth

Youth will demonstrate necessary leadership, teamwork, and communication skills needed to be successful in the workplace. 

Youth participation in community involvement increases.  

Youth will serve in leadership roles in their community.   

Youth will more effectively communicate, work with others, and contribute to driving change and shaping the future

Intermediate Outcomes:

Adult Participants gain confidence to lead Leaders are inspired to get more involved Leaders address community issues and needs Leaders recruit and engage others to participate in community projects Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy community, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together. Enhanced community partnership that equitably supports family health (e.g., FRYSC, Health Depart., DAIL, AAA,) Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies. More public spaces are revitalized for community engagement. Increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs. More individuals engage in local governance and civic groups.   Youth Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.      Youth will plan and implement a service project. Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.??  Youth will plan and implement a service project.???

Initial Outcomes:

Adult

Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources.

Improved understanding of disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.

Greater awareness of the benefits of public spaces.

Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity.

Improved awareness of civic engagement opportunities.

Greater knowledge of community partnerships and collaboration strategies

mproved leadership skills

Enhanced knowledge of concepts and practices

Increased knowledge about nurturing parenting and caregiving across the life span.

Increased awareness of community resources to support healthy families.

Increased confidence making decisions related to parenting and caregiving.

 

Youth

Youth will explore their spark in leadership. 

Youth identify personal strengths that contribute to leadership skill development (communication, teamwork, civic engagement).   

Youth identify personal strengths that contribute to leadership skill development (communication, teamwork, civic engagement).?? 

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

Youth realize how their actions impact others

Evaluation:

Adult

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: Improved leadership skills. (initial)

Indicator: Number of people reporting improved leadership skills (e.g., facilitation, conflict management, communication).

Method: Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation

 

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: 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: Giving time to serve in volunteer roles (e.g., KEHA or KALP members, Master programs, etc.). (initial)

Indicator: Number of people volunteering time to assist Extension or community activities and events (ex: KEHA or KALP members, Master programs, etc.)

Method: Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation; also monthly, quarterly, or annual volunteer hour reports.

 

Youth

Outcome: Short Term (Civic Education/Global Education)

Indicator: Number of youth who reported that they identified community needs.  Number of youth who expressed interest in expanding their knowledge of other cultures.  Number of youth who reported that they can identify aspects of their own culture. Number of youth who reported that they can name one responsibility they have as a citizen. Number of youth who report increased confidence interacting with others as a result of their participation in Extension arts activities.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Immediately post program

Outcome: Long Term 

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

Method: Survey  

Timeline: At least a year from participation

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Individuals

Project or Activity: Kentucky Extension Leadership Development (KELD)

Content or Curriculum: KELD curriculum (e.g., Learning styles, communication essentials, teamwork, dealing with conflict, generational differences, SWOT analysis, etc.), Publications, other materials and expertise

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

Dates: Ongoing

Audience: Individuals

Project or Activity: Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program (KALP), LEAD, CORE leadership programs.

Content or Curriculum: KALP, LEAD, CORE curriculum, Publications, other materials and expertise

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, external evaluators, community partners, volunteers, 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: 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: Individuals

Project or Activity: Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA)

Content or Curriculum: KEHA Leadership Academy, Homemakers Leader Lessons, Publications, Newsletters/News & Notes, Officer/Chairman training materials, KEHA State Meeting, various other resources and materials

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

Dates: Ongoing

Evaluation:

Adult

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: Improved leadership skills. (initial)

Indicator: Number of people reporting improved leadership skills (e.g., facilitation, conflict management, communication).

Method: Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation

 

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: 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: Giving time to serve in volunteer roles (e.g., KEHA or KALP members, Master programs, etc.). (initial)

Indicator: Number of people volunteering time to assist Extension or community activities and events (ex: KEHA or KALP members, Master programs, etc.)

Method: Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)

Timeline: Survey will be collected immediately after program participation; also monthly, quarterly, or annual volunteer hour reports.

 

Youth

Outcome: Short Term (Civic Education/Global Education)

Indicator: Number of youth who reported that they identified community needs.  Number of youth who expressed interest in expanding their knowledge of other cultures.  Number of youth who reported that they can identify aspects of their own culture. Number of youth who reported that they can name one responsibility they have as a citizen. Number of youth who report increased confidence interacting with others as a result of their participation in Extension arts activities.

Method: Survey 

Timeline: Immediately post program

Outcome: Long Term 

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

Method: Survey  

Timeline: At least a year from participation