Fayette County CES

County Emphasis:

Community Leadership Development

Concentration 1:

Building Leadership Capacity

Concentration 2:

Work and Life Skill Development

Concentration 3:

Connected & Resilient Communities

Situation:

Leadership is critical at several levels, from elected officials and internal management structure of organizations to project managers, team leaders, and those who inspire throughout a community. Thriving communities may require many leaders willing to take on leadership roles. And yet, it can be a challenge to identify new leaders or to encourage leaders to step up to the role without first building leadership capacity (CEDIK 2024). Respondents participating in the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment identified the need to build leadership capacity to enhance individual and family development and community and economic development. Kentucky has a statewide need to “prepare community members for formal/informal leadership and/or volunteer roles” and to build “capacity of local nonprofits and community leaders,” according to the survey. UK Extension aims to work on strengthening critical leadership skills and confidence for new and emerging leaders so that the pool of willing and capable leaders can rise to match local needs. Volunteer training can have motivational benefits ranging from inspiring volunteers to get more involved to keeping them in the program (Fox, Hebert, Martin & Bairnsfather, 2009).

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.

Kentucky household income statistics are concerning, with the median household income in Kentucky on a downward trend (i.e., approximately $55,100, which is 74% of the U.S. median income). Most alarming, it is estimated that nearly 62% of Kentucky households do not generate sufficient income to meet living wage standards given the state’s average cost of living. The Kentucky Center for Business and Economic Research (2024) projects that, “a key for Kentucky’s future economic growth is to identify and successfully implement programs that increase the employment-population ratio, particularly for working-age adults.” The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) is committed to improving the work and life skill development of adults across the Commonwealth by offering programming designed to increase the human capital of constituents. This includes providing education and training on topics such as workforce preparation, job readiness, financial literacy, soft skills, and professionalism, among others.

In a 2023 University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, with nearly 28,000 responses from across the state, Building Employee Soft Skills (e.g., communication, productivity, and teamwork skills) and Building Life Skills of Community Members were among the top ten Individual and Family Development Needs reported by Kentuckians.

Youth Focus

America’s future hinges on a prepared workforce and engaged communities collaborating to tackle society’s most pressing challenges. As of 2024, there are 2,465,949 job openings in Kentucky and nationwide there are 10 million unfilled jobs. Fasted growing jobs are in the fields of vocational education and higher education teachers, agriculture professionals, and digitally enabled roles: ecommerce specialists, digital transformation specialists, and digital marketing professionals (World Economic Forum, 2023). 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 haven’t been invented yet (Dell Technologies, 2019). 77% of employers say focus less on traditional school subjects, more on real-world skills (Kauffman Foundation, 2021). Skills like analytical thinking, creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, adaptability are key (World Economic Forum, 2023). According to the National 4-H Index Study 2024, 80% explored career options, 50% received guidance for college decisions, and 95% reported 4-H helped them identify things they were good at. To ensure a sustainable society, it is crucial that our youth are equipped to fill these positions. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023) has identified key priority issues related to life skill development for young people. These priorities include youth life skill training opportunities, youth workforce readiness, and maximizing youth voice in matters that directly impact them. Empowering our youth to actively participate in addressing societal issues is essential for a thriving future.

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.

County Situation:

In Fayette County, the development of community leadership is crucial, especially given the diverse educational and career pathways of its youth. With 1,663 high school graduates from 2020-2021 entering college and 7,569 students participating in career and technical education, there is a strong foundation for future leaders. The 2023 Extension County Needs Assessment identified youth life skill training opportunities as the second most critical need, highlighting the importance of preparing young individuals for leadership roles. Among the 2021-2022 high school graduates, 14% earned an industry certificate, 45.3% enrolled in at least one AP course, 46.4% earned college credit prior to graduation, and 57.4% pursued higher education. Fayette County's 67 legislative boards and commissions provide ample opportunities for community involvement and leadership. By focusing on life skill training and leveraging these educational achievements, the county can cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to address local challenges and contribute to community resilience.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• 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
• Youth will demonstrate necessary leadership, teamwork, and communication skills needed to be successful in the workplace
• Youth will more effectively communicate, work with others, and contribute to driving change and shaping the future.
• Improved quality of life for citizens
• Increased human capital among Kentuckians
• Improved quality of workforce
• Increased digital access improves economic and educational opportunities.
• Communities recover faster from disasters/economic disruptions
• Cultural heritage is preserved and integrated into communities
• Expanded partnerships enhance problem-solving and resource-sharing
• Improved quality of life through connection and civic engagement

Intermediate Outcomes:

• 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
• Leaders mentor others
• Increased knowledge transfer through volunteer-led positions
• Youth will plan and implement a service project.
• Youth will practice teamwork, responsibility, communication, conflict resolution techniques, and problem-solving skills.  
• Increased implementation of employability strategies/skills
• Increased salary/income
• Increased employment
• More citizens adopt digital tools for work and daily life.
• Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
• Increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs.
• New partnerships and networks address community challenges

Initial Outcomes:

• Improved leadership skills
• Enhanced knowledge of concepts and practices
• Knowledge gained through training programs
• Taking on leadership roles for the first time
• Assuming new leadership roles
• Participants give their time to serve in volunteer and/or advisory council roles
• Youth will demonstrate necessary leadership, teamwork, and communication skills needed to be successful in the workplace.
• Youth realize how their actions impact others
• Developed skills related to workforce development
• Improved employability and interpersonal skills
• Increased confidence to implement employability strategies
• Developed strategies for maintaining a health work-life balance
• Increased knowledge of digital tools and online resources.
• Improved understanding of disaster preparedness and recovery strategies.
• Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity.
• Greater knowledge of community partnerships and collaboration strategies

Evaluation:

Outcome	Knowledge gained through completing training programs. (initial)
Indicator	Number of people reporting enhanced knowledge of leadership concepts and practices (e.g. leadership styles, conflict resolution, team dynamics).
Method	Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)
Timeline	Survey will be collected immediately after program participation

Outcome	Increased engagement via knowledge transfer through volunteer-led/Advisory Council led Extension programs. (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who actively engaged in learning opportunities facilitated by trained Extension volunteers/Advisory Council members (e.g., FCS Advisory Council members , Master programs).
Method	Post-event/program surveys measuring participant engagement and knowledge gained; volunteer reports tracking education interactions.
Timeline	Data collected immediately after each program/event.

Outcome	Knowledge gained through completing training programs. (initial)
Indicator	Number of people reporting enhanced knowledge of leadership concepts and practices (e.g. leadership styles, conflict resolution, team dynamics).
Method	Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)
Timeline	Survey will be collected immediately after program participation

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have identified personal strengths in leadership (including teamwork, responsibilities, communication, conflict resolution, problem solving, parliamentary procedure).   Number of youth who reported that they have set goals to serve in leadership roles.   Number of youth who reported that they are interested in serving as a leader.
Method	Survey
Timeline	After Program/ Activity Completion

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they applied leadership skills learned in 4-H (e.g., teamwork, responsibilities, communication, conflict resolution, problem solving, parliamentary procedure) to other areas of their life, such as at home, school, etc.   Number of youth who reported that they have served in leadership roles beyond the 4-H club or county level.  Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills learned in to plan and implement a workshop or activity.
Method	Survey
Timeline	At end of Club/Program Year

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who developed a resume as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.   Number of youth who gained an increase in salary/income as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.  Number of youth who gained new employment as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.
Method	Survey
Timeline	At the end of the year program.

Outcome	Short term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported learning new skills to prepare or improve themselves for the workforce as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach. Number of youth who reported that they improved their job interview skills as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach. Number of youth who reported an improvement in their personal skills (e.g., communication, networking, time management) as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.  Number of youth who reported improvement in their confidence to implement employment strategies as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach. Number of youth who reported that they learned strategies for managing their work-life responsibilities as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.  Number of youth who reported expressing their thoughts or opinions.  Number of youth who reported using information to communicate with others.  Number of youth who reported demonstrating a skill they have learned.  Number of youth who reported serving in a leadership role.  Number of youth who reported working in a team / group to accomplish a common task or goal.  Number of youth who reported realizing how my actions impact others.  Number of youth reporting identifying the needs of others in their community.  Number of youth who reported participating in a service activity (community service, service learning, personal service to others).  Number of youth who reported recognizing leaders in their community or area of interest.  Number of volunteers who taught youth to express their thoughts or opinions.  Number of volunteers who taught youth how to use information to communicate with others.  Number of volunteers who provided opportunities for youth to demonstrate a skill they learned.  Number of volunteers who provided opportunities for youth to serve in a leadership role.  Number of volunteers who facilitated experiences for youth to work in a team/group to accomplish a common task or goal.   Number of volunteers who helped youth understand how their actions impact others.  Number of volunteers who facilitated the identification of the needs of others in their community.  Number of volunteers who coordinated service activities (community service, service learning, personal service to others).  Number of volunteers who taught youth to recognize leaders in their community or area of interest.
Method	Standard Evaluation
Timeline	Immediately post program (6+ hours)

Outcome	Leaders recruit and engage others to participate in projects. (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of people actively recruiting and engaging others to participate in community projects.
Method	Post-program survey (self-reported recruitment efforts); tracking participation in community-led projects.
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after program completion; follow-up conducted at three and six months.

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 applied leadership knowledge for individuals serving in formal leadership roles. (initial)
Indicator	Number of people reporting improved applied leadership knowledge (e.g., governance, financial oversight, strategic planning) from participation in board, officer, or leadership training programs.
Method	Post-training surveys measuring knowledge gained in governance-related skills
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after training; follow-up conducted at three and six months to assess knowledge application

Outcome	Increased participation in leadership roles by first-time leaders. (initial)
Indicator	Number of people taking on a leadership role for the first as a result of Extension leadership programs.
Method	Post-participation survey (self-reported leadership involvement); follow-up evaluation with community partners.
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after program completion and follow up evaluation conducted at six months.

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.

Outcome	Increased confidence to lead. (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of people reporting increased confidence in their leadership abilities.
Method	Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains); monitoring changes in local and state leadership positions.
Timeline	Survey will be collected immediately after program participation or via follow-up evaluation after six months.

Outcome	Leaders recruit and engage others to participate in projects. (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of people actively recruiting and engaging others to participate in community projects.
Method	Post-program survey (self-reported recruitment efforts); tracking participation in community-led projects.
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after program completion; follow-up conducted at three and six months.

Outcome	Increased community pride (long-term)
Indicator	Number of participants reporting a stronger sense of pride, identity, or community investment after engaging in Extension initiatives.
Method	Photos, documentation, post-program survey; follow up.
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after program completion; follow-up conduced at 3 and 6 months.

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	Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity (short term)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported  increased understanding of the value of building local cultural assets such as foodways, arts, and heritage traditions.
Method	Reflection surveys and community feedback.
Timeline	Collected within 30 days of participation.

Outcome	More individuals adopt digital tools for work and daily life (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of communities that reported implementing at least one new strategy to strengthen digital inclusion (e.g., improved public Wi-Fi, device access programs, digital literacy workshops) as a result of Extension-supported initiatives.
Method	Follow-up survey at 3 and 6 months.
Timeline	Collected at program completion and 6 months post-program.

Outcome	Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies (int)
Indicator	Number of businesses, farms, or households reporting faster post-disaster recovery due to preparedness actions learned through Extension.
Method	Post-disaster community case studies and resilience tracking.
Timeline	Assessed following disaster events.

Outcome	Increased ability to access, interpret, and apply data for informed decision-making (initial).
Indicator	Number of participants reporting increased confidence in accessing, interpreting, and applying data to inform local decision-making.
Method	Self-reported surveys collected after data literacy training sessions, Agent documentation of community plans, grant applications, or policy discussions that reference data profiles.
Timeline	After program or training participation

Outcome	increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs
Indicator	Number of participants in Extension arts or design-based community programs (e.g., story circles, murals, design charettes, creative placemaking) who reported increased connection or belonging.
Method	pre- and post- surveys from program participation,
Timeline	after program participation

Learning Opportunities:

Audience	Individuals and Community
Project or Activity	Master Clothing Volunteers (MCV)
Content or Curriculum	Publications, MCV training, continuing education/content experts
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, agents, Homemakers, MCV lead programming
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Individuals and Community
Project or Activity	FCS Advisory Council
Content or Curriculum	Publications, FCS quarterly meetings, exchange of programmatic ideas, FCS yearly service project
Inputs	Programmatic materials, FCS-paid staff, volunteers, community partners, agents, Homemakers, FCS advisory council members
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Teen Conference
Content or Curriculum	Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, and civic engagement.
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(s)	Summer

 

Audience	Master Gardener volunteers
Project or Activity	Master gardener training
Content or Curriculum	EMG manual
Inputs	Guest speakers, fieldtrips, project assignments
Date(s)	Alternating even numbered years

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	4-H Summit
Content or Curriculum	Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on leadership, communication, and civic engagement.
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(s)	Fall

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	4-H Camp Counselor Training (Teens)
Content or Curriculum	Content in the Camp Volunteer Training Guide is sourced from the American Camp Association best practices and focuses on developmental needs of campers, safety considerations, operating procedures, age-appropriate behavior management, and camper supervision techniques.
Inputs	These trainings are supported by the research base of the American Camp Association with materials provided by the 4-H State Office, funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc., local, state, and federal sources, grants, and led by County Extension Staff responsible for 4-H Camp.
Date(s)	Pre-Summer

 

Audience	4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele
Project or Activity	4-H Core Program Areas (Leadership, Agriculture, Natural Resources, Communcation and Expressive Arts, Science, Engineering and Technology, Health and Wellbeing, and Family Consumer Sciences), 4-H Camp, Cloverbud, Volunteerism
Content or Curriculum	Approved Kentucky 4-H Curriculum by Core Program Area or Area of Interest
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(s)	Program Year

 

Audience	Individuals
Project or Activity	Kentucky Agricultural Leadership Program (KALP)
Content or Curriculum	KALP curriculum, Publications, other materials and expertise
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, external evaluators, community partners, volunteers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Individuals
Project or Activity	Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA)
Content or Curriculum	Homemakers Leader Lessons, Officer/Chairman training
Inputs	Programmatic materials, training, mentoring, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profits, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Communities
Project or Activity	Supporting Citizen Engagement
Content or Curriculum	Creating Welcoming Communities
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, grant funds, local organizations and community partners, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Individuals, Families, Employees
Project or Activity	Development of Time Management Skills
Content or Curriculum	Time Well Spent: Productivity Skills for Success curriculum; Leader Lessons
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, businesses, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Individuals, Families, Employees
Project or Activity	Development of Employability Skills
Content or Curriculum	PROFIT; Recovering Your Finances curriculum
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profit organizations, schools, Court system, community centers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Individuals
Project or Activity	Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery
Content or Curriculum	In the Face of Disaster toolkit/curriculum
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Individuals
Project or Activity	Digital Literacy Initiatives
Content or Curriculum	State specialist support for Digital Literacy for Homemakers
Inputs	Programmatic materials, training, mentoring, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, non-profits, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Communities
Project or Activity	Building Connection in Communities
Content or Curriculum	Creating Welcoming Communities curriculum
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

Evaluation:

Outcome	Knowledge gained through completing training programs. (initial)
Indicator	Number of people reporting enhanced knowledge of leadership concepts and practices (e.g. leadership styles, conflict resolution, team dynamics).
Method	Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)
Timeline	Survey will be collected immediately after program participation

Outcome	Increased engagement via knowledge transfer through volunteer-led/Advisory Council led Extension programs. (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who actively engaged in learning opportunities facilitated by trained Extension volunteers/Advisory Council members (e.g., FCS Advisory Council members , Master programs).
Method	Post-event/program surveys measuring participant engagement and knowledge gained; volunteer reports tracking education interactions.
Timeline	Data collected immediately after each program/event.

Outcome	Knowledge gained through completing training programs. (initial)
Indicator	Number of people reporting enhanced knowledge of leadership concepts and practices (e.g. leadership styles, conflict resolution, team dynamics).
Method	Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains)
Timeline	Survey will be collected immediately after program participation

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have identified personal strengths in leadership (including teamwork, responsibilities, communication, conflict resolution, problem solving, parliamentary procedure).   Number of youth who reported that they have set goals to serve in leadership roles.   Number of youth who reported that they are interested in serving as a leader.
Method	Survey
Timeline	After Program/ Activity Completion

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they applied leadership skills learned in 4-H (e.g., teamwork, responsibilities, communication, conflict resolution, problem solving, parliamentary procedure) to other areas of their life, such as at home, school, etc.   Number of youth who reported that they have served in leadership roles beyond the 4-H club or county level.  Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills learned in to plan and implement a workshop or activity.
Method	Survey
Timeline	At end of Club/Program Year

Outcome	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who developed a resume as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.   Number of youth who gained an increase in salary/income as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.  Number of youth who gained new employment as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.
Method	Survey
Timeline	At the end of the year program.

Outcome	Short term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported learning new skills to prepare or improve themselves for the workforce as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach. Number of youth who reported that they improved their job interview skills as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach. Number of youth who reported an improvement in their personal skills (e.g., communication, networking, time management) as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.  Number of youth who reported improvement in their confidence to implement employment strategies as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach. Number of youth who reported that they learned strategies for managing their work-life responsibilities as a result of participating in an Extension workforce development program/outreach.  Number of youth who reported expressing their thoughts or opinions.  Number of youth who reported using information to communicate with others.  Number of youth who reported demonstrating a skill they have learned.  Number of youth who reported serving in a leadership role.  Number of youth who reported working in a team / group to accomplish a common task or goal.  Number of youth who reported realizing how my actions impact others.  Number of youth reporting identifying the needs of others in their community.  Number of youth who reported participating in a service activity (community service, service learning, personal service to others).  Number of youth who reported recognizing leaders in their community or area of interest.  Number of volunteers who taught youth to express their thoughts or opinions.  Number of volunteers who taught youth how to use information to communicate with others.  Number of volunteers who provided opportunities for youth to demonstrate a skill they learned.  Number of volunteers who provided opportunities for youth to serve in a leadership role.  Number of volunteers who facilitated experiences for youth to work in a team/group to accomplish a common task or goal.   Number of volunteers who helped youth understand how their actions impact others.  Number of volunteers who facilitated the identification of the needs of others in their community.  Number of volunteers who coordinated service activities (community service, service learning, personal service to others).  Number of volunteers who taught youth to recognize leaders in their community or area of interest.
Method	Standard Evaluation
Timeline	Immediately post program (6+ hours)

Outcome	Leaders recruit and engage others to participate in projects. (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of people actively recruiting and engaging others to participate in community projects.
Method	Post-program survey (self-reported recruitment efforts); tracking participation in community-led projects.
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after program completion; follow-up conducted at three and six months.

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 applied leadership knowledge for individuals serving in formal leadership roles. (initial)
Indicator	Number of people reporting improved applied leadership knowledge (e.g., governance, financial oversight, strategic planning) from participation in board, officer, or leadership training programs.
Method	Post-training surveys measuring knowledge gained in governance-related skills
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after training; follow-up conducted at three and six months to assess knowledge application

Outcome	Increased participation in leadership roles by first-time leaders. (initial)
Indicator	Number of people taking on a leadership role for the first as a result of Extension leadership programs.
Method	Post-participation survey (self-reported leadership involvement); follow-up evaluation with community partners.
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after program completion and follow up evaluation conducted at six months.

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.

Outcome	Increased confidence to lead. (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of people reporting increased confidence in their leadership abilities.
Method	Post participation survey (self-assessment of learning gains); monitoring changes in local and state leadership positions.
Timeline	Survey will be collected immediately after program participation or via follow-up evaluation after six months.

Outcome	Leaders recruit and engage others to participate in projects. (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of people actively recruiting and engaging others to participate in community projects.
Method	Post-program survey (self-reported recruitment efforts); tracking participation in community-led projects.
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after program completion; follow-up conducted at three and six months.

Outcome	Increased community pride (long-term)
Indicator	Number of participants reporting a stronger sense of pride, identity, or community investment after engaging in Extension initiatives.
Method	Photos, documentation, post-program survey; follow up.
Timeline	Survey collected immediately after program completion; follow-up conduced at 3 and 6 months.

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	Increased understanding of cultural development and community identity (short term)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported  increased understanding of the value of building local cultural assets such as foodways, arts, and heritage traditions.
Method	Reflection surveys and community feedback.
Timeline	Collected within 30 days of participation.

Outcome	More individuals adopt digital tools for work and daily life (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of communities that reported implementing at least one new strategy to strengthen digital inclusion (e.g., improved public Wi-Fi, device access programs, digital literacy workshops) as a result of Extension-supported initiatives.
Method	Follow-up survey at 3 and 6 months.
Timeline	Collected at program completion and 6 months post-program.

Outcome	Communities implement disaster preparedness and recovery strategies (int)
Indicator	Number of businesses, farms, or households reporting faster post-disaster recovery due to preparedness actions learned through Extension.
Method	Post-disaster community case studies and resilience tracking.
Timeline	Assessed following disaster events.

Outcome	Increased ability to access, interpret, and apply data for informed decision-making (initial).
Indicator	Number of participants reporting increased confidence in accessing, interpreting, and applying data to inform local decision-making.
Method	Self-reported surveys collected after data literacy training sessions, Agent documentation of community plans, grant applications, or policy discussions that reference data profiles.
Timeline	After program or training participation

Outcome	increased participation in cultural and arts-based programs
Indicator	Number of participants in Extension arts or design-based community programs (e.g., story circles, murals, design charettes, creative placemaking) who reported increased connection or belonging.
Method	pre- and post- surveys from program participation,
Timeline	after program participation