Greenup County CES

County Emphasis:

Enhancing the overall well-being of Greenup County Citizens

Concentration 1:

Financial Security and Economic Well-Being

Concentration 2:

Health and Wellbeing

Concentration 3:

Mental Health and Well-Being

Situation:

Adult-

A disproportionate number of Kentuckians live in economically distressed communities (39% of Kentuckians, compared to 15% nationally). Further, most Kentucky households are concerned with financially sustaining a quality of life that allows them to survive and thrive in an economically challenged society. From housing to grocery expenses, the cost of living continues to rise, and households are ill-equipped to adjust. Securing financial stability is vital for the well-being of state constituents. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) is committed to improving the financial security and economic well-being of families across the Commonwealth. Related CES programming is designed to help Kentuckians become more economically resilient by promoting financial literacy education, comprehensive family resource management skills, and small business engagement and support.

In a 2023 University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, with nearly 28,000 responses from across the state, Building Financial Literacy and/or Resource Management Skills was among the top 10 state-identified priority issues reported by Kentuckians, and Efforts that Support Local & Small businesses was among the top 10 Community & Economic Development needs in the state.

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.

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-

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.   In Kentucky, economic uncertainty due to job market fluctuations and agricultural shifts impacts youth through unstable family environments and limited resources. Hospitality, retail, and tourism generated over $10 billion in 2023, with job growth in culinary arts, tourism, and hobby industries. The unemployment rate increased by 4.7% from July 2023 to July 2024. According to the Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023), priorities include building financial literacy and resource management skills, youth life skill training (e.g., leadership and communication), strengthening youth workforce readiness (e.g., entrepreneurship, business development), and engaging diverse and non-traditional youth audiences. America’s future relies on a ready workforce and engaged communities to tackle major challenges. Kentucky 4-H develops youth potential for lifelong success through essential skills in communication, leadership, and civic engagement. 80% of 4-Hers reported that 4-H helped them explore career options and 95% reported 4-H helped them identify things they were good at, and 50% reported 4-H helped them with college decision-making. 4-H programs equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to thrive in their personal lives, family lives, and communities.   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.

County Situation:

Long-Term Outcomes:

Adult-

Increased financial literacy skills

Improved financial security and stability

Improved financial and economic well-being

Routinely meeting guidelines and recommendations for health behaviors that promote wellness and quality of life

Community environments that equitably support health-promoting behaviors where people live, learn, work, and play

Increased availability and accessibility to community-based health resources

Reduced rate and burden of non-communicable chronic diseases and injury

Decreased health disparity prevalence in Kentucky counties

Improved quality of life

Reduced incidence of mental health crises and suicide

Increased access to mental health care and resources for all

Youth-

Kentucky 4-H members report decreased obesity.    

Increased number of 4-Hers who pursue employment in the health and wellbeing field. 

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.

Youth will have increased economic security.  

Youth will make sound financial decisions. 

Youth will have an increased rate of savings.

Kentucky 4-H members report a reduced number of youth that are considering suicide.  

Increased number of 4-Hers who pursue mental health & well-being employment.  

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

Intermediate Outcomes:

Adult-

Increased sound financial decision making

Implementation of financial literacy and resource management strategies/skills

Increased savings (e.g., as a result of budgeting, saving, reducing debt, spending wisely, stretching resources)

Increased access to community financial resources

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

Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health or safety issues

Increased organizational/site/community support for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health or safety issues

Increased use of de-stigmatized language

Increased use of self-care and other coping strategies

Increased advocacy for mental health and wellbeing resources

Increased partnerships (number or strength) to address mental health and wellbeing issues within the community

Youth- 

4-H members will practice general wellness habits.   

Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to health and well-being among 4-Hers.  

4-H members will increase physical activity. 

Youth will practice responsible consumer and financial management decision-making such as budgeting, actions on needs verses wants.   

Youth will practice habits and skills that contribute toward sound economic and financial well-being.

4-H members will practice general wellness habits.    

Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to mental health and wellbeing among 4-Hers.

Initial Outcomes:

Adult-

Strengthening financial literacy and well-being, including but not limited to, budgeting, spending wisely, saving, using credit responsibly, reducing debt, estate planning, fraud reduction, etc.

Improved financial literacy knowledge

Improved employability and interpersonal skills

Increased confidence to implement employability strategies

Developed strategies for maintaining a health work-life balance

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.

Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors.

Increased awareness of community resources to support health-promoting behaviors.

Increased confidence in making decisions related to health-promoting behaviors.

Improved skills related to health-promoting behaviors

Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern

Increased ability to use de-stigmatized language

Increased knowledge of self-care and other coping strategies

Increased knowledge of mental health and well-being resources (interpersonal and community-based)

Youth-

Increased knowledge of positive mental health practices  

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

Improved attitudes and beliefs towards healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  

Increased knowledge of general wellness practices

Youth will increase knowledge in understanding personal financial management. 

Youth will aspire to make SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound) economic and financial well-being decisions. 

Increased knowledge of positive mental health practices  

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

Improved attitudes and beliefs towards healthy habits and practices among 4-Hers.  

 Increased knowledge of general wellness practices 

Evaluation:

Adult-

Outcome: Improved knowledge related to financial literacy concepts (initial)

Indicator: Number of individuals who reported increased knowledge of family finance and/or resource management concepts.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Improved financial and/or resource management skills (e.g., creating a budget, checking credit report, developing an estate plan, etc.) (initial)

Indicator: Number of individuals who reported developing skills related to family finance and/or resource management

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow-up evaluation 

Outcome: Increased confidence to implement family finance and resource management skills (e.g., budgeting, spending wisely, saving, using credit responsibly, reducing debt, estate planning, reducing fraud, etc.) (initial)

Indicator: Number of individuals who reported improved confidence to implement family finance and/or resource management skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased sound financial decision making (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of individuals who made a sound financial decision (e.g., regarding credit, budgeting, savings, debt, estate planning, fraud reduction, etc.).

Method: Self-reported surveys, documentation, or interviews

Timeline: Follow-up evaluations to capture action/behavior change over time.

Outcome: Implementation of financial literacy and resource management strategies/skills (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of individuals who implemented at least one strategy to better manage their family finances and resources (e.g., considered wants/needs, avoided bank fees, reviewed tax forms, set savings goals, started estate plan, developed budget, increased fraud protection, etc.).

Method: Self-reported surveys, documentation, or interviews

Timeline: Follow-up evaluations to capture action/behavior change over time.

Outcome: Increased access to community financial resources through Extension support (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of grants or tangible financial resources accessed by communities, nonprofits, or small businesses as a result of Extension-supported initiatives

Method: Tracked through self-reported surveys from community partners, nonprofits and small businesses, documentation from grant reports where Extension provided support

Timeline: Ongoing

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 confidence and motivation to engage in health-promoting behaviors (e.g. add physical activity, consume more nutritious foods, receive vaccination or screen) (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: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow up evaluation

Outcome: Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g. vaccinations, screenings, preparation/consumption of nutritious foods, active living, pest prevention) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported intentions to implement a behavior learned from a health and well-being program

Method: Demonstration 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

Outcome: Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health issues (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of community partners (community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals) worked with to offer health and well-being programming in the community

Method: Agent record of community partnerships utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing; Each partnership should be reported once per reporting period

Outcome: Increased organizational/site/community supports for health-promoting behaviors (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of volunteers who supported health and well-being programming in the community

Method: Agent record of volunteers utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing: Each volunteer should be reported once per reporting period

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: Increased partnerships (number or strength) to address mental health and well-being issues within the community

Indicator: Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and well-being in the community.

Method: Agent record of community partnerships utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing; Each partnership should be reported once per reporting interval

Outcome: Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns.

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

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

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 of mental health and well-being resources (interpersonal and community-based)

Indicator: Number of participants who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and well-being in their community

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

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

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: Increased advocacy for mental health and wellbeing resources

Indicator: Number of participants who adopted strategies to support or promote mental health and well-being in their community.

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
Method	Super Star Chef Pre/Post Test
Timeline	Immediately before and after program

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported learning  the differences between purchases made for “needs” vs “wants”  Number of youth who reported that they learned about budgeting.  Number of youth who reported that they learned about savings.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and wellbeing for youth in the community. Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns. Number of youth who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing. Number of youth who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community. Number of youth who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Immediately post-program

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have identified  one or more jobs that might be a good fit for them in Family Consumer Sciences.   Number of youth who reported that have taken steps to pursue gaining knowledge for a job in Family Consumer Sciences.   Number of youth who reported that they have practiced budgeting skills.   Number of youth who reported that they have practiced needs versus wants knowledge when making purchases on a budget. .  Number of youth who reported that they have included savings in their budget.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	End of Program Year

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who adopted self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing. Number of youth who adopted strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community. Number of youth who reported behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
Method	Survey
Timeline	3-6 months post-program

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	1 or more years

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Survey or Interview
Timeline	1+ year

Learning Opportunities:

Audience: Individuals, Families, Employees

Project or Activity: Development of Financial Literacy Skills

Content or Curriculum: Use Less. Spend Less. Stress Less. curriculum; publications; MONEYWI$E newsletter and podcasts; PROFIT; Recovering Your Finances curriculum; OneOp; Big Blue Book Club; In the Face of Disaster; Leader Lessons; Money Habitudes; etc. 

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, financial entities and organizations, businesses, etc. 

Date: Ongoing

Audience: Individuals, Families, Employees

Project or Activity: Development of Family Resource Management Skills

Content or Curriculum: Use Less. Spend Less. Stress Less. curriculum; publications; MONEYWI$E newsletter and podcasts; PROFIT; Recovering Your Finances curriculum; OneOp; Leader Lessons; etc. 

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, Court system, community centers, etc.

Date: Ongoing

Audience: Individuals, Families, Employees

Project or Activity: Estate Planning

Content or Curriculum: Estate Planning publication series; Transferring Cherished Possessions curriculum; MONEYWI$E newsletter and podcasts;OneOp; Leader Lessons; farm succession and legacy building programs; etc.

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, farms, 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

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: 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: Communities

Project or Activity: Policy, Systems, and Environmental (PSE) Approaches

Content or Curriculum: Pathways to Wellness, Faithful Families, Story Walks, Shared Space Agreements, parks and trail development, Active Community Toolkit, resources for early case and education settings, food system work (e.g. farmers’ markets, backpack programs, community gardens), SNAP-Ed toolkit, creating and Maintaining Health Coalitions, Arts in Health publications, CEDIK Healthy Communities toolkit

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

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Mental Health Education Programming

Content or Curriculum: Adult Mental Health First Aid, QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), CODE RED, ACT (Awareness, Communication, and Triage and Treat) for Farm Families, Understanding and Coping with Trauma after Natural Disasters, After the Storm, Blue to You  

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 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: 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	Youth
Project or Activity	Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum	Wellness in Kentucky
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(s)	September 1 – August 30

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Health Rocks
Content or Curriculum	4-H Health Rocks! Curriculum.   Additional resources include Healthy Bodies: Teaching Kids What They Need to Know   Substance Abuse   Mental Health Services Administration.
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(s)	September 1- August 30

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum	Super Star Chef Curriculum- NEP
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(s)	May- July

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Building a Healthy, Wealthy Future
Content or Curriculum	Building a Healthy, Wealthy Future
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  Clothing Volunteers  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(s)	September 1 – August 30

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Reality Store/ Dollars and Sense
Content or Curriculum	It’s Your Reality
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  Clothing Volunteers  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(s)	Spring

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Piggy Bank Contest
Content or Curriculum	Money Habitudes   Building a Healthy Wealthy Future   Jump$tart: Reality Check   Money Smart   Building Your Financial Future   Kentucky Saves Week
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  Clothing Volunteers  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(s)	Fall/Spring

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Teen Conference
Content or Curriculum	4-H Major Study of Emphasis   Money Habitudes   Building a Healthy Wealthy Future   Jump$tart: Reality Check   Money Smart   Building Your Financial Future
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  Clothing Volunteers  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(s)	Summer

Audience	4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele
Project or Activity	Mental Health First Aid
Content or Curriculum	Mental Health First Aid (Youth). Additional resources include Healthy Bodies: Teaching Kids What They Need to Know, and National Alliance on Mental Illness
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. Focus is on Adults working with youth.
Date(s)	Program Year

Audience	4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele
Project or Activity	Your Feelings Matter (Club/Group/Individual)
Content or Curriculum	Your Feelings Matter Curriculum. Additional resources include Healthy Bodies: Teaching Kids What They Need to Know, Mental Health First Aid, and National Alliance on Mental Illness.
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. Focus is on Grades 4-8.
Date(s)	Program Year

Evaluation:

Adult-

Outcome: Improved knowledge related to financial literacy concepts (initial)

Indicator: Number of individuals who reported increased knowledge of family finance and/or resource management concepts.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Improved financial and/or resource management skills (e.g., creating a budget, checking credit report, developing an estate plan, etc.) (initial)

Indicator: Number of individuals who reported developing skills related to family finance and/or resource management

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow-up evaluation 

Outcome: Increased confidence to implement family finance and resource management skills (e.g., budgeting, spending wisely, saving, using credit responsibly, reducing debt, estate planning, reducing fraud, etc.) (initial)

Indicator: Number of individuals who reported improved confidence to implement family finance and/or resource management skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased sound financial decision making (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of individuals who made a sound financial decision (e.g., regarding credit, budgeting, savings, debt, estate planning, fraud reduction, etc.).

Method: Self-reported surveys, documentation, or interviews

Timeline: Follow-up evaluations to capture action/behavior change over time.

Outcome: Implementation of financial literacy and resource management strategies/skills (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of individuals who implemented at least one strategy to better manage their family finances and resources (e.g., considered wants/needs, avoided bank fees, reviewed tax forms, set savings goals, started estate plan, developed budget, increased fraud protection, etc.).

Method: Self-reported surveys, documentation, or interviews

Timeline: Follow-up evaluations to capture action/behavior change over time.

Outcome: Increased access to community financial resources through Extension support (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of grants or tangible financial resources accessed by communities, nonprofits, or small businesses as a result of Extension-supported initiatives

Method: Tracked through self-reported surveys from community partners, nonprofits and small businesses, documentation from grant reports where Extension provided support

Timeline: Ongoing

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 confidence and motivation to engage in health-promoting behaviors (e.g. add physical activity, consume more nutritious foods, receive vaccination or screen) (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: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow up evaluation

Outcome: Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g. vaccinations, screenings, preparation/consumption of nutritious foods, active living, pest prevention) (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported intentions to implement a behavior learned from a health and well-being program

Method: Demonstration 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

Outcome: Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health issues (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of community partners (community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals) worked with to offer health and well-being programming in the community

Method: Agent record of community partnerships utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing; Each partnership should be reported once per reporting period

Outcome: Increased organizational/site/community supports for health-promoting behaviors (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of volunteers who supported health and well-being programming in the community

Method: Agent record of volunteers utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing: Each volunteer should be reported once per reporting period

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: Increased partnerships (number or strength) to address mental health and well-being issues within the community

Indicator: Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and well-being in the community.

Method: Agent record of community partnerships utilized in programming

Timeline: Ongoing; Each partnership should be reported once per reporting interval

Outcome: Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns.

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

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

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 of mental health and well-being resources (interpersonal and community-based)

Indicator: Number of participants who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and well-being in their community

Method: Post-participation survey/evaluation results

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

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: Increased advocacy for mental health and wellbeing resources

Indicator: Number of participants who adopted strategies to support or promote mental health and well-being in their community.

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
Method	Super Star Chef Pre/Post Test
Timeline	Immediately before and after program

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported learning  the differences between purchases made for “needs” vs “wants”  Number of youth who reported that they learned about budgeting.  Number of youth who reported that they learned about savings.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address mental health and wellbeing for youth in the community. Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of how to respond to mental health concerns. Number of youth who intend to adopt self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing. Number of youth who intend to adopt strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community. Number of youth who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
Method	Survey
Timeline	Immediately post-program

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have identified  one or more jobs that might be a good fit for them in Family Consumer Sciences.   Number of youth who reported that have taken steps to pursue gaining knowledge for a job in Family Consumer Sciences.   Number of youth who reported that they have practiced budgeting skills.   Number of youth who reported that they have practiced needs versus wants knowledge when making purchases on a budget. .  Number of youth who reported that they have included savings in their budget.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	End of Program Year

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who adopted self-care strategies to improve their own mental health and wellbeing. Number of youth who adopted strategies to support or promote mental health and wellbeing in their community. Number of youth who reported behavior change as a result of participation in mental health and wellbeing programming.
Method	Survey
Timeline	3-6 months post-program

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Standard Evaluation Tool for 4-H Family Consumer Sciences: Survey
Timeline	1 or more years

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method	Survey or Interview
Timeline	1+ year

Success Stories