Fayette County CES

County Emphasis:

Building Healthy and Resilient Communities

Concentration 1:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access

Concentration 2:

Mental Health and Well-Being

Concentration 3:

Health and Wellbeing

Concentration 4:

Family and Youth Development

Situation:

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

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

Youth Focus

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

More than ever before, people are feeling the burden of stress on their wellbeing. More than 1 in 5 adults in the United States lives with a mental illness; in Kentucky, 43% of adults report signs or symptoms of anxiety or depression across their lifespan. At the same time, suicide is a leading cause of preventable death in Kentucky for individuals aged 10-34, and those over the age of 59.

Concern over the state of mental health and access to care was echoed in the Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, where respondents listed “improved access to mental health and wellbeing resources” as one of the top 6 priority issues. Kentuckians are aware of their need for knowledge and skills to recognize and respond to a mental health challenge, whether it be their own or to help someone else, and the ability to advocate for more mental health resources in all areas of the state.

Cooperative Extension is poised with the research and evidence-based resources needed to serve as a beacon of hope in times of distress through our ability to help overcome stigma, connect people to care, and amplify the voices of many to advocate for better quality of life for all.

Youth Focus

Kentucky’s youth population deserves safe and nurturing environments that foster their growth and wellbeing. Unfortunately, mental health challenges affect a significant portion of our youth, with 17% of those aged 6-17 experiencing mental health disorders, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (2023), and only 50% receiving treatment. The impact is profound, with one person in the U.S. dying by suicide every 11 minutes, and in Kentucky alone, 800 lives were lost to suicide in 2022. Recognizing the urgency, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service’s 2019 and 2023 statewide programming issue surveys highlighted mental health and wellbeing as priority areas. Nationally, 45% of 4-H participants reported high stress in a 2023 survey by 4-H.org. The University of Kentucky Community Needs Assessment (2023) indicates priorities of improve access to mental health and wellbeing resources, minimizing bullying and/or school violence, stronger parenting and relationship-building skills, and social, emotional, and/or behavioral education for adults working with youth. To address these concerns, the 4-H Program provides evidence-based educational programs focused on positive mental health and self-care, aiming to empower youth with decision-making and critical thinking skills, fostering resilience and overall wellbeing. By emphasizing mental health and offering targeted educational initiatives, we can create a brighter future for Kentucky’s youth.

The opportunities and resources available to support the health and well-being of adults and families in Kentucky vary widely. Disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure contribute to higher rates of chronic health conditions and lower quality of life. Prevention, early detection, and care are essential to maintain and/or improve quality of life. Yet, this burden is often placed on individuals to navigate the

healthcare system and traditional public health entities. Additionally, for decades, little attention has been given to the external factors that undoubtedly affect health such as access to care, education, nutritious foods, and safe physical spaces. These same issues and concerns were echoed throughout the 2023 UK Cooperative Extension Community Assessment. Within the top 15 priority issues identified by Kentuckians, “ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable nutritious foods” was #4 and “reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise” was #8. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, UK Extension aims to become a critical public health partner for addressing disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure through comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness programming that supports adult physical health and well-being.

Youth Focus

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

Family and Youth Development programming is essential for fostering healthy, supportive environments where both children and adults can thrive. By offering structured activities and educational workshops, UK Extension aims to build strong family bonds equipping young people and older adults with critical life skills. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, our programming also addresses social and emotional needs throughout the lifespan, promoting resilience and positive relationships which are two of the key concerns identified in the top 15 needs of Kentucky’s statewide needs assessment. Investing in such programs can prevent future challenges by supporting early intervention and personal growth. Ultimately, these initiatives contribute to the well-being of individuals and the stability of communities, making them a vital component of social development.

County Situation:

Fayette County, Kentucky, faces several health challenges that underscore the need for targeted interventions to build a healthier and more resilient community. Nearly 29% of adults report no leisure-time physical activity, while 16.2% describe their health as fair or poor, contributing to a diabetes diagnosis rate of 10.3% among adults aged 20+. Smoking rates remain high at 31%, and 9% of residents are uninsured, limiting access to essential healthcare services. Food insecurity is a pressing concern, with 7% of the population experiencing limited access to food, and the 2023 Extension County Needs Assessment identified "ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable, nutritious food" as the top community priority. Additionally, 30.6% of households include individuals aged 65+, with 7.6% of this population living in poverty, highlighting the vulnerabilities of older adults. These issues demonstrate the urgent need for community-level initiatives focused on promoting physical activity, improving access to nutritious food and healthcare, and addressing the social determinants of health to create a thriving and resilient Fayette County.

Long-Term Outcomes:

• 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
• Improved quality of life
• 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 confidence in making decisions related to health-promoting behaviors.
• Improved skills related to health-promoting behaviors
• 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 the 4-H Health and Well-Being Core Content Area.
• Increased access to mental health care and resources for all
• Family farms become economically viable
• Individuals and families of all incomes levels have access to affordable and nutritious foods
• Decrease in the number of Kentuckians with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease.
• More Kentuckians routinely met the guidelines for the consumption of (locally grown) fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Reduced incidence of mental health crises and suicide
• Increased meaningful social connections
• Increased support network
• Increased kindergarten readiness rates in the county and state
• Increased caregiver preparation
• Improved quality of family life

Intermediate Outcomes:

• Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family, community, and occupational health and safety
• Increased organizational/site/community support for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health or safety issues
• 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.  
• Increased use of de-stigmatized language
• Increased production of Kentucky-grown food and increased market opportunities for those products
• Improved dietary habits through: consumption of more fruits and vegetables, a variety of proteins and the number of meals prepared at home.
• Increased number of entrepreneurial food businesses.
• 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
• Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health or safety issues
• Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy community, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together.
• Enhanced community partnership that equitably support family health (e.g., FRISC, Health Depart., DAIL, AAA,)

Initial Outcomes:

• 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.
• Increased ability to recognize and respond to a mental health concern
• Increased awareness of Extension resources and programs supporting food access
• Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation.
• Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops.
• 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)
• Increased awareness and accessibility of community resources available to access fresh foods.
• 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 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.
• Increased confidence and motivation to reduce loneliness and social isolation.
• Improved skills related to nurturing parenting and caregiver support
• Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., reading to your child, spending time together, self-care, caregiver preparation, active living).

Evaluation:

Outcome	Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors (e.g., how to prepare nutritious foods, benefits of routine vaccinations/screenings, maintaining diabetes/ diabetes self-management) (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported/demonstrated improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding health-promoting behavior as a result of participating in a health and well-being program
Method	Observation by Agent or self-reported/returned surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome	Increased organizational/site/community support 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

 

Outcome	Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family and community health (e.g., physical activity and consuming nutritious foods) (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/ and or returned surveys
Timeline	Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture change over time

 

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 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	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have used knowledge and/or skills learned in health and wellbeing programs to complete a project.    Number of youth who reported that they have used nutrition as a way to improve their overall health.   Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in health and wellbeing based on their interests.
Method	Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey
Timeline	End of Club/Program Year

 

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study
Method	Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey
Timeline	1 or more years

 

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they learned the difference between healthy and unhealthy snacks.  Number of youth who reported that they learned about safe food handling and preparation.   Number of youth who reported that they learned about kitchen safety.   Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in Family Consumer Sciences.  Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of egg and/or poultry food safety practices. Number of youth who demonstrated/reported improved egg and/or poultry cooking skills.
Method	Evaluation Provided by Animal Food Sciences Department
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

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 awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging.  Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources.
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

 

Outcome	Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation;
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

 

Outcome	Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops. (initial)
Indicator	Number of farms or food businesses who retained or expanded market opportunities and/or sales including locally produced foods.  Number of individuals who attended certificate-based training on food safety, food preservation, food processing, liability, and/or marketing. (This includes: PBPT, Produce Safety Alliance Training, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, Value Chain Coordination Services Training, Farmers Market Sampling, Home-based Microprocessing….).
Method	HBM Post-Workshop Evaluation
Timeline	Annual (calendar year)

 

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	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 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 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 confidence and motivation to engage in nurturing parenting and caregiver support (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 they have used nurturing parenting and/or caregiving strategies to improve their skills
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow up evaluation

Outcome	Increased intentions to engage in nurturing parenting and caregiver support (e.g., spending more quality time together, engaging in meaningful talk) (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported they intend/plan to increase time spent nurturing and/or caregiving.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Enhanced community partnerships that equitably support family health (e.g., FRISC, Health Depart., DAIL, AAA,)(intermediate)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported seeking support from local community organizations and/or its individual member
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome	Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy communication, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together. (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported they enhanced healthy relationships.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress.

Learning Opportunities:

Audience	Families & Individuals
Project or Activity	Nutrition Education
Content or Curriculum	Publications, Faithful Families, Dining with Diabetes-Grilling/Moving toward Mediterranean editions, Food as Health Toolkit, Savor the Flavor, Plate it up! Kentucky Proud, Food as Health Toolkit
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, faith-based organizations, health coalitions, healthcare Providers and local clinics, health departments, non-profits, schools, company health and wellness, Homemakers, farmers’ markets, local farms/growers/producers, commodity groups, community centers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Families & Individuals
Project or Activity	Physical Activity
Content or Curriculum	Publications, Shared Space Agreements, Health Coalitions, Bingocize, FCS agent lead group fitness- i.e. Zumba
Inputs	Programmatic materials, FCS agent- 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(s)

 

Audience	Chrysalis House
Project or Activity	Gardening, cooking, lessons
Content or Curriculum	NEP healthy choices
Inputs	Agents, plants and seeds
Date(s)	ongoing

 

Audience	Gardener’s Toolbox classes
Project or Activity	Educational lectures
Content or Curriculum	Various topics
Inputs	Agents, volunteers, plants and supplies
Date(s)	ongoing

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum	4-H Cooking: 101, 201, 301, 401
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	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

 

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	Families and Individuals
Project or Activity	Mental Health Education Programming
Content or Curriculum	ACT (Awareness, Communication, and Triage and Treat) for Farm Families, CODE RED, Understanding and Coping with Trauma after Natural Disasters
Inputs	Programmatic materials, state specialist support, community partners, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing; 2025-2029

 

Audience	Individuals & Farmers
Project or Activity	Cook Wild
Content or Curriculum	Publications, trainings, recipes
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, facilities, non-profits, 4-H, faith-based organizations, Homemakers, community centers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Individuals & Farmers
Project or Activity	Home Based Micro Processing
Content or Curriculum	HBMP Training materials
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, facilities, health department, State of Kentucky, KDA, non-profits, schools, faith-based organizations, Homemakers, community centers, farmers, farmers’ markets, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Youth
Project or Activity	Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum	Literacy, Eating, and Activity for Primary Youth ( LEAP)
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.   Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association   Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.   Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.   Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs
Date(s)	September 1 – August 30

 

Audience	Families and Individuals
Project or Activity	Promoting Well-being
Content or Curriculum	The Mind-Body Connection series
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(s)	Ongoing; 2025-2029

 

Audience	Families & Individuals
Project or Activity	Physical, Environmental, and Occupational Safety
Content or Curriculum	In the Face of Disaster toolkit/curriculum
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, businesses, creative entrepreneurs, local farms/growers/producers, commodity groups, housing authorities
Date(s)	Ongoing/seasonal

 

Audience	Families and Individuals
Project or Activity	Parenting Education
Content or Curriculum	Navigating Trauma After a Natural Disaster; Emergency Health Information Cards; In the Face of Natural Disaster Toolkit; Food Safety
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, Family Resource Youth Support Coordinators; Department of Community Based Services, health departments, non-profits, faith-based organizations, schools, company health & wellness, community centers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

 

Audience	Families and Individuals
Project or Activity	Caregiver Support
Content or Curriculum	In the Face of Disaster Toolkit; Emergency Health Information Cards; the Mind/Body Connection series
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(s)	Ongoing/seasonal

 

Audience	Families and Individuals
Project or Activity	Kindergarten Readiness
Content or Curriculum	Laugh and Learn Playdates, Understanding Disability curriculum
Inputs	Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, volunteers, HeadStart/daycare organizations, healthcare providers and local clinics, health department, non-profits, schools, Homemakers, community centers, etc.
Date(s)	Ongoing

Evaluation:

Outcome	Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors (e.g., how to prepare nutritious foods, benefits of routine vaccinations/screenings, maintaining diabetes/ diabetes self-management) (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported/demonstrated improved knowledge, skills, opinions, or confidence regarding health-promoting behavior as a result of participating in a health and well-being program
Method	Observation by Agent or self-reported/returned surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

 

Outcome	Increased organizational/site/community support 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

 

Outcome	Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family and community health (e.g., physical activity and consuming nutritious foods) (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/ and or returned surveys
Timeline	Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture change over time

 

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 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	Medium Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they have used knowledge and/or skills learned in health and wellbeing programs to complete a project.    Number of youth who reported that they have used nutrition as a way to improve their overall health.   Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to pursue gaining more knowledge for a job in health and wellbeing based on their interests.
Method	Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey
Timeline	End of Club/Program Year

 

Outcome	Long Term
Indicator	Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study
Method	Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey
Timeline	1 or more years

 

Outcome	Short Term
Indicator	Number of youth who reported that they learned the difference between healthy and unhealthy snacks.  Number of youth who reported that they learned about safe food handling and preparation.   Number of youth who reported that they learned about kitchen safety.   Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in Family Consumer Sciences.  Number of youth who reported an increased knowledge of egg and/or poultry food safety practices. Number of youth who demonstrated/reported improved egg and/or poultry cooking skills.
Method	Evaluation Provided by Animal Food Sciences Department
Timeline	Immediate Post Program

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 awareness and accessibility of Extension resources and programs supporting food access. (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging.  Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources.
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

 

Outcome	Improved skills related to safe food preparation and food preservation. (initial)
Indicator	Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding the safe storage, handling, preparation and/or preservation of food through Extension programs and resources.
Method	Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Food Preservation;
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration; annual fiscal year (food system impact survey)

 

Outcome	Increased participation in Homebased Microprocessing workshops. (initial)
Indicator	Number of farms or food businesses who retained or expanded market opportunities and/or sales including locally produced foods.  Number of individuals who attended certificate-based training on food safety, food preservation, food processing, liability, and/or marketing. (This includes: PBPT, Produce Safety Alliance Training, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) training, Value Chain Coordination Services Training, Farmers Market Sampling, Home-based Microprocessing….).
Method	HBM Post-Workshop Evaluation
Timeline	Annual (calendar year)

 

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	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 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 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 confidence and motivation to engage in nurturing parenting and caregiver support (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 they have used nurturing parenting and/or caregiving strategies to improve their skills
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration or follow up evaluation

Outcome	Increased intentions to engage in nurturing parenting and caregiver support (e.g., spending more quality time together, engaging in meaningful talk) (initial)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported they intend/plan to increase time spent nurturing and/or caregiving.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome	Enhanced community partnerships that equitably support family health (e.g., FRISC, Health Depart., DAIL, AAA,)(intermediate)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported seeking support from local community organizations and/or its individual member
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome	Increased healthy relationships across generations that support healthy communication, nurturing behaviors, and quality time together. (intermediate)
Indicator	Number of participants who reported they enhanced healthy relationships.
Method	Self-reported surveys
Timeline	Ongoing/as changes are made and projects progress.