Pendleton County CES

County Emphasis:

Enhancing Health & Wellness

Concentration 1:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access

Concentration 2:

Health and Wellbeing

Concentration 3:

Substance Use Prevention and Recovery

Concentration 4:

Mental Health and Well-Being

Situation:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access   It is proven that people who have access to and consume their daily dietary requirements of fresh fruits and vegetables are less likely to suffer from chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease and have an increased quality of life. Having the knowledge and skills to prepare or preserve fresh fruits and vegetables presents an additional barrier beyond obtaining fresh food access. With the goal of increasing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, the Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) aims to increase access to fresh food, as well as increase knowledge and awareness of how to select, store, safely prepare, process, and preserve these foods. CES prioritizes statewide partnership development that helps us meet our goals and objectives. We collaborate with statewide agencies including Kentucky Department of Agriculture, Community Farm Alliance, KY Farm to School Network, Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife and others to help build statewide systems that increase access and usage of fresh fruits and vegetables. These programs benefit Kentuckians because they support food access policy, systems and environmental changes in communities and across the state. They increase knowledge of how to grow, prepare, and preserve fresh fruits and vegetables. Youth Focus Kentucky faces significant health and economic challenges, with five of the top ten causes of death being nutrition-related. According to the Obesity Action Coalition the cost of obesity reached $36.31 billion. The rapidly changing social and economic landscape underscores the need for a healthy, productive, and engaged young people to contribute to a prepared workforce and engaged community to tackle these challenges. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System's 2023 Community Needs Assessment identifies critical priorities, including access to affordable nutritious food, reducing youth obesity through improved nutrition and exercise, and enhancing youth wellbeing through effective coping strategies. Kentucky 4-H plays a crucial role in addressing these needs by equipping young people with essential skills in nutrition, culinary arts, financial education, and entrepreneurship. 69% of youth reported that they learned about healthy food choices in 4-H. 4-H youth report an increase in preparing meals together as a family, increase in meals eaten as a family, and confidence in the kitchen. These programs not only foster healthier, more resilient individuals, but also contribute to the development of engaged citizens prepared to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving world.   Health and Wellbeing   The opportunities and resources available to support the health and well-being of adults and families in Kentucky vary widely. Disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure contribute to higher rates of chronic health conditions and lower quality of life. Prevention, early detection, and care are essential to maintain and/or improve quality of life. Yet, this burden is often placed on individuals to navigate the healthcare system and traditional public health entities. Additionally, for decades, little attention has been given to the external factors that undoubtedly affect health such as access to care, education, nutritious foods, and safe physical spaces. These same issues and concerns were echoed throughout the 2023 UK Cooperative Extension Community Assessment. Within the top 15 priority issues identified by Kentuckians, “ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable nutritious foods” was #4 and “reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise” was #8. Guided by the Cooperative Extension’s National Framework for Health Equity and Well-being, UK Extension aims to become a critical public health partner for addressing disparities in health-promoting knowledge, resources, and infrastructure through comprehensive health, nutrition, and wellness programming that supports adult physical health and well-being. Youth Focus Thriving youth are healthy, productive, and engaged (Arnold, 2024). According to Kentucky Kids Count Database (AECF, 2023) 41% of Kentucky teenagers are obese or overweight. Youth are also experiencing alarming levels of negativity about themselves, their confidence in the future, and their ability to find contentment in life (McKinsey & Company, 2022). 30% of youth are chronically absent (United States Department of Education, 2024). The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Needs Assessment (2024) identified key priorities issues related to health and wellbeing as need for improved access to mental health and wellbeing resources, reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and/or exercise, minimizing bullying and/or school violence. To address these issues, Kentucky 4-H creates opportunities for youth in the five domains of physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual health and well-being.   Substance Use Prevention and Recovery   Though substance use and substance use disorder have been pressing social problems for decades, the public health burden and consequence associated with substance use has rapidly worsened in recent years. Drug overdoses have surpassed car accidents as the leading cause of accidental death and overdoses have contributed to a reduction in average life expectancy in the US. Much of the substance use-related morbidity and mortality is a result of a persistent treatment gap. Each year, about 90% of people who need treatment for SUD in Kentucky do not receive it. To address this gap in service provision, more community-level programming is required to meet the complex needs of Kentuckians who use drugs. Cooperative Extension is uniquely positioned, both with deep connections to each Kentucky county and with its transdisciplinary team of specialists, to address the holistic needs of Kentuckians who use drugs including mental health, fair housing, second-chance employment, nutrition and physical health, and much more. Youth Focus Substance use and substance use disorder are persistent public health problems in Kentucky. Kentucky youth fare worse than their US counterparts in terms of numerous indicators of drug use and drug-related harm including cigarette and smokeless tobacco use, vaping, alcohol use, and illicit drug use such as opioid and methamphetamine use. Accordingly, the recent University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service Needs Assessment (2023) indicated substance use prevention is the primary concern among most Kentucky counties. Nevertheless, few Kentucky communities support prevention efforts that are informed by research. Cooperative Extension is well-positioned with deep collaborative community ties to support evidence-based prevention programming. Such programs may target substance use directly or indirectly by focusing on pertinent risk and protective factors and promoting overall well-being for Kentucky youth. Mental 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 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.

County Situation:

Pendleton County faces critical challenges in ensuring residents have access to nutritious foods and resources to improve health outcomes. The 2023 UK Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment highlighted top priorities, including access to affordable, healthy food and reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and exercise. With limited grocery options in rural areas and a significant portion of the population relying on food pantries or assistance programs, barriers to health and wellness are evident. Chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease remain prevalent, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. 

 

Data included: 

1. Access to Nutritious Foods and Health Resources: 
   1. Pendleton County faces challenges in ensuring access to healthy food, with 15% of households experiencing food insecurity. Many residents rely on food assistance programs. 
2. Obesity and Chronic Health Conditions:  
   1. Obesity affects 38.4% of the county’s population. 
   2. Chronic conditions like heart disease (11.4%) and diabetes (13.8%) are prevalent. 
3. Mental Health: 
   1. 20% of children in Kentucky experience mental health issues, a trend likely mirrored in Pendleton County. 
   2. The county is designated as a Medically Underserved Area (MUA), with limited access to mental health professionals. 
4. Physical Activity: 
   1. Only 24% of adults meet the recommended physical activity guidelines (150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week). 
5. Food Access Issues: 
   1. Pendleton County has limited grocery options and relies heavily on food pantries and assistance programs. 
   2. Only 10% of food sourced in local schools comes from regional farms, with opportunities to expand farm-to-school programs. 
6. Healthcare Access: 
   1. Pendleton County has a healthcare provider shortage, contributing to difficulties accessing care. 
   2. About 5.5% of residents are uninsured, slightly below the state average. 
7. Substance Use: 
   1. Opioid misuse affects approximately 4% of individuals aged 12 and older. 
   2. Smoking rates align with the state average of 24%, which is one of the highest in the U.S. 
8. Foodborne Illness: 
   1. The county reports 13 foodborne illness outbreaks per 100,000 people annually, slightly above the state average of 10. 
9. Cottage Food Compliance: 
   1. 40% of cottage food producers are not fully compliant with Kentucky's labeling and safety standards. 
10. Farm-to-School Programs: 
    1. Pendleton County Schools source less than 10% of their food from local farms, creating an opportunity to boost local food sourcing. 

 

Sources: Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Chronic Care Alliance, SAMHSA, Kentucky: By The Numbers, America’s Health Rankings, neilsberg, KYHA 

 

Through these targeted efforts, Pendleton County Extension is driving meaningful change to improve health outcomes, foster community resilience, and ensure access to essential resources. 

Long-Term Outcomes:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access  

Adult

• Individuals and families of all incomes levels have access to affordable and nutritious foods
• Family farms become economically viable.
• Kentucky’s local food and agriculture industry are thriving.
• Decrease in the number of Kentuckians with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease.
• More Kentuckians routinely met the guidelines for the consumption of (locally-grown) fresh fruits and vegetables.

Youth

• Youth report reduced risk for poor health, developmental delays, obesity, and malnutrition.    
• Youth increase educational outcomes.  
• Youth decrease poor overall health. 

 

Health and Wellbeing 

 Adult

• 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

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.

 

Substance Use Prevention and Recovery  

Adult

• Increased recovery capital
• Reduced adult substance use
• Reduced adult substance use disorder
• Reduced adult overdose fatalities
• Reduced stigma related to adult substance use
• Improved quality of life

Youth

• Improved social and emotional competency
• Reduced youth substance use
• Reduced youth substance use disorder
• Reduced youth overdose fatalities
• Reduced stigma related to youth substance use
• Improved quality of life

 

Mental Health and Well-Being  

Adult

• Reduced incidence of mental health crises and suicide
• Increased access to mental health care and resources for all

Youth

• 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:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access   Adult Increase and/or strengthen statewide and regional partnership to address community food system issues. Increased production of Kentucky-grown food and increased market opportunities for those products. Increase in the number of farmers’ markets and local food retailers that accept one or more food benefits as payment. Improved dietary habits through: consumption of more fruits and vegetables, a variety of proteins and the number of meals prepared at home. Increased number of entrepreneurial food businesses. Youth Youth will practice making wise nutrition choices.   Youth will practice food safety.      Youth will access nutritious foods.   Youth will prepare nutritious foods.   Youth will eat a variety of healthy foods daily. Health and Wellbeing   Adult 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 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.   Substance Use Prevention and Recovery   Adult Increased availability and accessibility of evidence-based recovery capital-building programs Enhanced community partnerships that target recovery from substance use disorder Youth Increased availability and accessibility of evidence-based prevention programs Enhanced community partnerships that target youth prevention Mental Health and Well-Being   Adult 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 mental health and wellbeing among 4-Hers.

Initial Outcomes:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access   Adult Increased awareness of and use of Food Connection Programs: Value Chain Coordinators, TFC Learning Kitchen, and Cultivate KY resources. 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 awareness and accessibility of community resources available to access fresh foods. Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, healthy eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.). Youth Youth will learn how to make wise nutrition choices.   Youth will learn the importance of food safety.   Youth learn how to access nutritious foods.   Youth will learn how to prepare nutritious foods.   Youth will aspire to eat a variety of healthy foods daily.   Health and Wellbeing   Adult 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 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 Substance Use Prevention and Recovery   Adult Increased knowledge about addiction as a chronic disorder Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery Increased confidence making decision related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.).  Youth  Increased knowledge about substance use and its effects Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.). Mental Health and Well-Being   Adult 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

Evaluation:

Mental Health and Well-Being  

 

Adult

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

Youth

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: Long Term 

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

Method: Survey or Interview 

Timeline: 1+ years 

Food Safety, Quality, and Access  

Adult

Outcome: Increased awareness of and use of Food Connection Programs: Value Chain Coordinators, TFC Learning Kitchen, and Cultivate KY resources. (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….). 
• Number of people ho?used Extension and/or Food Connection resources and/or services for pricing and/or marketing local foods (examples of services include: Kentucky Nutrition Education Program/KYNEP, PlateEatMove.com, Plate It Up Kentucky Proud!, Cook Wild Kentucky, Kentucky Value Chain Coordinators, Cultivate Kentucky Partnership, etc.). 
• Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 

Method: Agent Tool level from The Food Connection (being developed); 

Timeline: Annual: Food System Impact Survey (federal fiscal year); The Food Connection (calendar year); HBMP (annual calendar year)

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

Indicator: 

• Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 
• Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
• Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources. 
• Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.  

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

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

Outcome: 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.  
• Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting). 

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Champion Food Volunteer, 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: Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, health eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.). (initial)

Indicator: 

• Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
• Number of individuals who were introduced to health food access points (e.g. farmers markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.

Method: Food Systems Impact Survey, planeatmove.com website data, NEP resources distributed;

Timeline: Annual, fiscal year (Food Systems Impact Survey)

Youth

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: Medium Term  

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they applied skills and/or knowledge to prepare healthy snacks for self or family.  
• Number of youth who reported that they practiced safe food handling and preparation.  
• Number of youth who reported that they practiced kitchen safety. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills   and/or knowledge gained to complete a Family Consumer Sciences Project. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: End of the program year

Outcome: Long Term

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

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey 

Timeline: 1 or more years  

Health and Wellbeing  

Adult

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

Youth

Outcome: Short Term

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in health or wellbeing initiatives in their community. 
• Number of youth who reported that they understand the importance of habits or choices that promote health and wellbeing.  
• Number of youth who reported that they learned ways to be physically active  
• Number of youth who reported that they learned how physical activity contributes to overall health 
• Number of youth who reported that they learned how food impacts their overall health. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in health and wellbeing that fits their interest.  

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey

Timeline: Immediately after program/event 

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

 Substance Use Prevention and Recovery  

Adult

Outcome: Increased knowledge about addiction as a chronic disorder (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery (or related subject matter)

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery (initial)

Indicator: Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address substance use/recovery in the community

Method: Program metrics agents will track, and report based on their activities and partnerships related to substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery)

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC).

Outcome: Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in substance use prevention and/or recovery programming.
• Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC).

Outcome: Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased ability to use destigmatized language

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome: Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.). (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills (ST)
• Number of participants who used self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC)

Youth

Outcome: Increased knowledge about substance use and its effects (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery (or related subject matter)

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery (initial)

Indicator: Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address substance use/recovery in the community

Method: Program metrics (agents will track and report based on their activities and partnerships related to substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery)

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in substance use prevention and/or recovery programming.
• Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased ability to use destigmatized language

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome: Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.). (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills (ST)
• Number of participants who used self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC)

Learning Opportunities:

Food Safety, Quality, and Access  

 

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. 

Dates: Ongoing

 

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.

Dates: Ongoing

 

Audience: Individuals & Farmers

Project or Activity: Champion Food Volunteer

Content or Curriculum: Champion Food Volunteer Curriculum, publications

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, facilities, non-profits, 4-H, faith-based organizations, Homemakers, community centers, etc.

Dates: Ongoing

 

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: School, Community or Recovery Gardens

Content or Curriculum: NEP “Grow your own” publications, Hort. Dept. publications, youth gardening curriculum, Recovery Garden Toolkit

Inputs: Gardening materials, paid staff, community partners, 4-H, volunteers, grant funds, local organizations and community partners, schools, recovery centers, Nutrition Education Program

Dates: Ongoing

 

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: Farmers’ Market Toolkit

Content or Curriculum: Farmers’ Market Toolkit

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, facilities, health department, non-profits, schools, faith-based organizations, Homemakers, community centers, farmers, farmers’ markets, etc.

Dates: Ongoing

 

Youth

 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation 

Content or Curriculum: Teen Cuisine, Culinary Challenge 

Inputs: 

1. 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.  
2. Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
3. Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs.

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation 

Content or Curriculum: 4-H Cooking: 101, 201, 301, 401 

Inputs: 

1. 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.  
2. Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
3. Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs 

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation

Content or Curriculum: Put It Up: Food Preservation

Inputs: 

1. 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.  
2. Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
3. Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs 

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation

Content or Curriculum: International Foods, Passport Kitchen, Global Table

Inputs: 

1. 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.  
2. Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
3. Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs 

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation

Content or Curriculum: Exploring My Plate  

Inputs: 

1. 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.  
2. Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
3. Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation

Content or Curriculum: Literacy, Eating, and Activity for Primary Youth ( LEAP)

Inputs: 

1. 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.  
2. Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
3. Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs 

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation 

Content or Curriculum: Poultry Barbecue Camps, Chicken and Turkey Barbecue Contests, Egg Cooking Workshops, State 4-H Egg Chef Challenge 

Inputs: 

1. 4-H Poultry programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.  
2. Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Animal Food Sciences Department 
3. Accredited and certified volunteers. 
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.  
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs.

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

 

Audience: Youth  

Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation

Content or Curriculum: What’s On Your Plate 

Inputs: 

1. 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.  
2. Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects. 
3. Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association  
4. Four residential camping facilities.  
5. Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.  
6. Utilization of approved research-based curriculum. 
7. Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.  
8. Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.  
9. Funding from local, state, and federal sources.  
10. Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery. 
11. Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs

Dates: September 1 – August 30 

 

Learning Opportunities 

Health and Wellbeing  

Adult

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, Fitness for Produce, Hiking Club

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: Families & Individuals

Project or Activity: Physical, Environmental, and Occupational Safety

Content or Curriculum: Publications, presentations, trainings, demonstrations, In the Face of Disaster, Pest Control Short Course, Stop the Bleed, … … …

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, community partners, businesses, creative entrepreneurs, local farms/growers/producers, commodity groups, housing authorities

Date: Ongoing/seasonal

 

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

Learning Opportunities 

Substance Use Prevention and Recovery 

 

Adult

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Addiction Education

Content or Curriculum: Publications, Addiction 101, Harm Reduction 101

Inputs: Programmatic materials, community partners, ASAP Boards and Community Coalitions, residential treatment centers, detention centers, healthcare providers, clergy, and healthcare providers

Date: Ongoing

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Recovery Capital Building

Content or Curriculum: Healthy Choices for Your Recovering Body (HCYRB), Recovering Your Finances (RYF), Recovery Gardens, Positive Employability, Question. Persuade. Refer (QPR), Mind Art Recovery Kentucky

Inputs: Programmatic materials, community partners, ASAP Boards and Community Coalitions, residential treatment centers, detention centers, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and clergy

Date: Ongoing

 

Audience: Communities

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

Content or Curriculum: Addiction 101, Recovering Your Finances (RYF), PROFIT, Building Recovery Ready Communities (e.g. presenting to coalitions), Resources for Family Members and Concerned Others, Parenting in Recovery

Inputs: Programmatic materials, community partners, grant funding, elected officials, health coalitions, and other key stakeholders

Date: Ongoing

 

Youth

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Substance Use Prevention Programming

Content or Curriculum: Botvin Lifeskills, Strengthening Families, 4-H Health Rocks, Engaging People with Lived Experience (testimonies),

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, health coalitions, schools and school staff

Date: Ongoing

 

Audience: Families and Individuals

Project or Activity: Positive Youth Development

Content or Curriculum: Health Rocks, Positive Employability,  Mindful Mechanics, Get Experience in Mindfulness (GEM), Social/Emotional Health-Focused Programming

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, faith-based organizations, health coalitions, schools and school staff

Date: Ongoing

 

Audience: Communities

Project or Activity: Community-Based Substance Use Prevention

Content or Curriculum: Substance Use Prevention Education (i.e. Addiction 101, Ad Hoc Webinars, etc.), Engaging People with Lived Experience (testimonies), Strengthening Families

Inputs: Programmatic materials, paid staff, volunteers, community partners, elected officials, faith-based organizations, health coalitions, and faith-based organizations

Date: Ongoing

Learning Opportunities 

Mental Health and Well-Being  

 

Adult

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

 

Youth

 

Audience: 4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele

Project or Activity: 4-H State Task Forces 

Content or Curriculum: Curriculum is sourced from Shop 4-H and the Land Grant System, focuses on health and wellbeing. Additional resources include Healthy Bodies: Teaching Kids What They Need to Know, Mental Health First Aid, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and Youth Strong: Helping Youth and Families in Times of Disaster and Stress 

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: Program Year

Audience: 4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele

Project or Activity: Youth Strong: Helping Youth and Families in Times of Disaster and Stress (Club/Group/Individual) 

Content or Curriculum: Youth Strong: Helping Youth and Families in Times of Disaster and Stress Guidebook. 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 Youth who have experienced traumatic experiences or disasters.

Date: 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: Program Year 

Evaluation:

Mental Health and Well-Being  

 

Adult

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

Youth

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: Long Term 

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

Method: Survey or Interview 

Timeline: 1+ years 

Food Safety, Quality, and Access  

Adult

Outcome: Increased awareness of and use of Food Connection Programs: Value Chain Coordinators, TFC Learning Kitchen, and Cultivate KY resources. (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….). 
• Number of people ho?used Extension and/or Food Connection resources and/or services for pricing and/or marketing local foods (examples of services include: Kentucky Nutrition Education Program/KYNEP, PlateEatMove.com, Plate It Up Kentucky Proud!, Cook Wild Kentucky, Kentucky Value Chain Coordinators, Cultivate Kentucky Partnership, etc.). 
• Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 

Method: Agent Tool level from The Food Connection (being developed); 

Timeline: Annual: Food System Impact Survey (federal fiscal year); The Food Connection (calendar year); HBMP (annual calendar year)

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

Indicator: 

• Number of individuals reporting an increased awareness of how to find and prepare local food including responsible hunting/fishing/foraging. 
• Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
• Number of individuals who reported increasing their knowledge, skills, or intentions regarding nutrition and accessing healthy foods through Extension programs and resources. 
• Number of individuals who were introduced to healthy food access points (e.g. farmers’ markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.  

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

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

Outcome: 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.  
• Number of individuals who reported supplementing their diets with healthy foods that they grew, harvested, or preserved (e.g. community or backyard gardens, fishing, hunting). 

Method: Pre/post participant evaluations from: NEP agent-led curricula, Champion Food Volunteer, 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: Increase the number of partnerships and/or coalitions involved in promoting awareness of local food systems, health eating, and active living (e.g. Program councils, Health Advisory Boards, etc.). (initial)

Indicator: 

• Number of policy, systems, and/or environmental changes implemented within communities and organizations to promote active living, and healthy eating, including local food production and/or hunting/foraging and consumption (e.g. local food pantry can accept fresh foods or local game; starting/revitalizing a school or community garden; starting a walking club, etc.). 
• Number of individuals who were introduced to health food access points (e.g. farmers markets, CSAs, WIC, food pantries) through Extension programs or resources.

Method: Food Systems Impact Survey, planeatmove.com website data, NEP resources distributed;

Timeline: Annual, fiscal year (Food Systems Impact Survey)

Youth

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: Medium Term  

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they applied skills and/or knowledge to prepare healthy snacks for self or family.  
• Number of youth who reported that they practiced safe food handling and preparation.  
• Number of youth who reported that they practiced kitchen safety. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have used the skills   and/or knowledge gained to complete a Family Consumer Sciences Project. 

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey

Timeline: End of the program year

Outcome: Long Term

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

Method: Standard Evaluation Tool for Family Consumer Sciences: Survey 

Timeline: 1 or more years  

Health and Wellbeing  

Adult

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

Youth

Outcome: Short Term

Indicator: 

• Number of youth who reported that they have identified an interest in health or wellbeing initiatives in their community. 
• Number of youth who reported that they understand the importance of habits or choices that promote health and wellbeing.  
• Number of youth who reported that they learned ways to be physically active  
• Number of youth who reported that they learned how physical activity contributes to overall health 
• Number of youth who reported that they learned how food impacts their overall health. 
• Number of youth who reported that they have identified at least one job/career in health and wellbeing that fits their interest.  

Method: Standard Evaluation for 4-H Health and Wellbeing: Survey

Timeline: Immediately after program/event 

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

 Substance Use Prevention and Recovery  

Adult

Outcome: Increased knowledge about addiction as a chronic disorder (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery (or related subject matter)

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery (initial)

Indicator: Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address substance use/recovery in the community

Method: Program metrics agents will track, and report based on their activities and partnerships related to substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery)

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC).

Outcome: Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in substance use prevention and/or recovery programming.
• Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC).

Outcome: Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased ability to use destigmatized language

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome: Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.). (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills (ST)
• Number of participants who used self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC)

Youth

Outcome: Increased knowledge about substance use and its effects (initial)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased knowledge of substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery (or related subject matter)

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased awareness of community resources to support prevention and recovery (initial)

Indicator: Number of partnerships with community organizations, institutions, agencies, or individuals to address substance use/recovery in the community

Method: Program metrics (agents will track and report based on their activities and partnerships related to substance use prevention, addiction, and/or recovery)

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased confidence making decisions related to substance use (i.e. substance use refusal skills) (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported intended behavior change as a result of participation in substance use prevention and/or recovery programming.
• Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration

Outcome: Increased confidence and motivation to use destigmatized language (intermediate)

Indicator: Number of participants who reported an increased ability to use destigmatized language

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Repeated self-reported surveys and/or follow-up evaluations to capture behavior change over time

Outcome: Increased intentions to employ health-promoting behaviors (e.g., exercise, healthy nutrition, positive coping, etc.). (Short-term, ST, and Intermediate, BC).

Indicator: 

• Number of participants who reported that they intend to use self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills (ST)
• Number of participants who used self-care strategies to improve their recovery and/or substance refusal skills.

Method: Self-reported surveys

Timeline: Post-program/curricula survey administration (ST) and follow-up survey (BC)