Health and SafetyPlan of Work
Boyle County CES
County Emphasis:
Health and Safety
Concentration 1:
Work and Life Skill Development
Concentration 2:
Health and Wellbeing
Concentration 3:
Mental Health and Well-Being
Concentration 4:
Sustainability, Natural Resources and Wildlife Management, and Environment
Situation:
Kentucky household income statistics are concerning, with the median household income in Kentucky on a downward trend (i.e., approximately $55,100, which is 74% of the U.S. median income). Most alarming, it is estimated that nearly 62% of Kentucky households do not generate sufficient income to meet living wage standards given the state’s average cost of living. The Kentucky Center for Business and Economic Research (2024) projects that, “a key for Kentucky’s future economic growth is to identify and successfully implement programs that increase the employment-population ratio, particularly for working-age adults.” The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service (CES) is committed to improving the work and life skill development of adults across the Commonwealth by offering programming designed to increase the human capital of constituents. This includes providing education and training on topics such as workforce preparation, job readiness, financial literacy, soft skills, and professionalism, among others.
In a 2023 University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment, with nearly 28,000 responses from across the state, Building Employee Soft Skills (e.g., communication, productivity, and teamwork skills) and Building Life Skills of Community Members were among the top ten Individual and Family Development Needs reported by Kentuckians.
Youth Focus
America’s future hinges on a prepared workforce and engaged communities collaborating to tackle society’s most pressing challenges. As of 2024, there are 2,465,949 job openings in Kentucky and nationwide there are 10 million unfilled jobs. Fasted growing jobs are in the fields of vocational education and higher education teachers, agriculture professionals, and digitally enabled roles: ecommerce specialists, digital transformation specialists, and digital marketing professionals (World Economic Forum, 2023). 85% of the jobs that will exist in 2030 haven’t been invented yet (Dell Technologies, 2019). 77% of employers say focus less on traditional school subjects, more on real-world skills (Kauffman Foundation, 2021). Skills like analytical thinking, creative thinking, resilience, flexibility, adaptability are key (World Economic Forum, 2023). According to the National 4-H Index Study 2024, 80% explored career options, 50% received guidance for college decisions, and 95% reported 4-H helped them identify things they were good at. To ensure a sustainable society, it is crucial that our youth are equipped to fill these positions. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System Community Needs Assessment (2023) has identified key priority issues related to life skill development for young people. These priorities include youth life skill training opportunities, youth workforce readiness, and maximizing youth voice in matters that directly impact them. Empowering our youth to actively participate in addressing societal issues is essential for a thriving future.
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.
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.
Ensuring the sustainability of Kentucky woodlands and natural resources, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, faces many challenges. Many landowners struggle to implement sustainable practices due to economic pressures, lack of access to technology, and workforce. The situation is
exacerbated by development and the increasing demand for food, which often leads to the overuse of land and water resources, contributing to soil degradation, deforestation, and water scarcity.
Kentucky is blessed with a rich array of natural resources, including vast forests, abundant waterways, and wildlife. With woodlands in each of the 120 counties and forest industries in 110 counties, Kentuckians in both rural and urban areas all derive benefits from woodlands. Hardwood forests cover 50% of Kentucky and 473,000 individuals own 88% of the 12.4 million forested acres in the state. Forests stimulate the Kentucky economy through employment and production to the tune of $13 billion annually and there are over 28,000 jobs in Kentucky’s forest sector. Forests provide recreational opportunities and are a powerful tool in efforts to promote sustainability and support native diversity. Wildlife management programs assist landowners through both urban and rural wildlife management and damage control initiatives.
However, Kentucky’s forests and natural areas face growing risks. Threats from climate change are increasing as evidenced by some of the warmest and wettest years on record during the past decade and Kentucky is ranked as the ninth most vulnerable state in the country by long-term climate change impacts. Extreme weather events, such as the December 2021 tornado in Western Kentucky and the 2022 flooding in Eastern Kentucky are becoming more frequent and severe. In addition, a wide range of invasive species (including insects, pathogens, animals, and plants) can cause problems in woodlands, forests and other natural areas, threatening management and long-term sustainability.
Kentucky’s Extension remains committed to developing adaptive management strategies for the critical issues facing the sustainability of farms, natural areas, and forests for today and in the future. Implementing soil and water conservation practices in both urban and rural watersheds is critical to the long-term sustainability of Kentucky’s natural resources.
Youth Focus
Educating youth about natural resources and environmental sciences is crucial for our future, as it empowers them to become proactive stewards of our planet. The Kentucky 4-H Youth Development Program aims to boost environmental literacy among youth, addressing a significant gap in environmental knowledge revealed by surveys from the Kentucky Environmental Education Council. America’s prosperity is inseparably linked to the health of our environment. A healthy environment is an essential component of the quality of life of humans and all living organisms (USDA, 2024). Optimistically, the National 4-H Council’s 2024 Index Survey found that 83% of youth enjoy science, 66% see it as a problem-solving tool, and 62% are interested in science-related careers. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension System’s 2023 assessment identified key priorities such as youth life skill training, workforce readiness, and promoting natural resource literacy. Through 4-H projects in natural resources and environmental sciences, young people develop life skills, learn responsibility, and gain knowledge about sustaining our natural resources through various projects and programs.
County Situation:
Despite a well-educated population and high median income per household, Boyle County still faces many of the health issues common throughout Kentucky. Kentucky by the Numbers reports in 2020, 31% of adults 18 and over reported no leisure time physical activity and 10.8% of adults 20+ were diagnosed with diabetes. According to the UK Nutrition Education Program, 38% of Boyle County adults were obese in 2022. In 2020-22, Boyle County reported 319 non-fatal overdose emergency department-related visits for any drug and 126 opioid-related non-fatal visits. Fatalities numbered 43 in the same period for any drug and 34 for opioid-related cases. To address health-related issues, a recent assessment from Boyle County citizens identified the following areas to be addressed by local Extension programming:
1. Ensuring individuals and families have access to affordable, nutritious food
2. Improved access to mental-health and well-being resources
3. Support for substance use, addiction prevention/recovery
4. Reducing youth obesity through nutrition education and exercise
5. Addressing food insecurity and diet-related chronic diseases
Long-Term Outcomes:
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.
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.
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.
Adult
- Economic, social, physical, or environmental situations that will change because individuals or communities adopted new (or improved existing) actions, practices, and behaviors (these also take time to mature)).
- Forests ecosystem and economic values are enhanced, resulting?in?healthier forests, improved water quality, and increased revenue?
- Wildlife habitat is increased and improved.
- The sustainability of agricultural and forestry operations is increased and opportunities for further growth are improved.
Youth
- Youth will advocate for natural resources in their communities.???
- Youth will be life and work ready, contributing to the natural resources community as consumers, leaders, and innovators.??
- Youth actively adopt and apply advanced natural resources practices, demonstrating a growing commitment to the natural resources community.?
Intermediate Outcomes:
Adult
- Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family, community, and occupational health and safety
- Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health or safety issues
- Increased organizational/site/community support for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health or safety issues
Youth
- 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.
- Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to health and well-being among 4-Hers.
- 4-H members will increase physical activity.
Adult
- Increased health-promoting behaviors that support family, community, and occupational health and safety
- Increased and/or strengthened partnerships to address community health or safety issues
- Increased organizational/site/community support for health-promoting behaviors that equitably address community health or safety issues
Youth
- 4-H members will practice general wellness habits.
- Increased self-reflection and exploration of personal values and beliefs related to health and well-being among 4-Hers.
- 4-H members will increase physical activity.
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.
Adult
- New or improved practices, behaviors, or choices that will occur in participants or communities because of the knowledge or awareness they gained from their contact with Extension (these are behavior change outcomes that are typically measured in follow-up evaluations because they require time to mature.)
- Actively install and use resource monitoring technology to assist in data-driven decision to monitor their forest’s health forest health, water resources, and land usage.
- Increase the number of Woodland owners that participate in economic incentives programs adopting sustainable forestry, water conservation, and soil management practices.
- Implement climate resilience strategies to withstand the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, sustainable water management, and adapting wildlife management to preserve biodiversity under changing climate conditions.
Youth
- Youth will take responsible action in natural resources conservation.??
- Youth will aspire to explore careers in natural resources and environmental sciences.??
- Youth will practice skills gained from 4-H natural resources projects and clubs.???
- Youth will communicate natural resources ideas and concepts more effectively.
Initial Outcomes:
Adult
Health promoting behaviors include but are not to, regular physical activity, safe preparation and consumption of nutritious foods, vaccinations, moderate or no consumption of alcohol, avoiding/reducing/eliminating tobacco use, health screenings, sleep, stress management, health literacy, pest prevention/reduction/management, and occupational safety.
- Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors.
- Increased awareness of community resources to support health-promoting behaviors.
- Increased confidence in making decisions related to health-promoting behaviors.
- Improved skills related to health-promoting behaviors
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
Adult
Health promoting behaviors include but are not to, regular physical activity, safe preparation and consumption of nutritious foods, vaccinations, moderate or no consumption of alcohol, avoiding/reducing/eliminating tobacco use, health screenings, sleep, stress management, health literacy, pest prevention/reduction/management, and occupational safety.
- Increased knowledge about health-promoting behaviors.
- Increased awareness of community resources to support health-promoting behaviors.
- Increased confidence in making decisions related to health-promoting behaviors.
- Improved skills related to health-promoting behaviors
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
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
Adult
- Increase the awareness of sustainable forest management practices, economic pressures and technological barriers facing woodland owners and other interested individuals.
- Increase knowledge and skills of individuals in both urban and rural settings to address immediate wildlife-related challenges and enhance biodiversity.
- Develop the skills and ability of Woodland owners and Ag producers to actively manage wildlife-related damage and nuisance.
- Develop emergency preparedness and response strategies focusing on preserving their Woodlands and mitigating immediate damage from events such as floods and tornadoes.
Youth
- Youth will explore their spark in natural resources.???
- Youth will gain knowledge and develop skills in natural resources and environmental sciences.????
- Youth will understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.???
- Youth will set goals to become good stewards of natural resources.??
- Youth will expand life and work readiness skills, gaining awareness of the diverse opportunities within the field of natural resources.?
Evaluation:
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
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
Outcome: Short?
Indicator:
- Number of youth who reported that they have identified their interest in natural resources.?
- Number of youth who reported that they understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.???
- Number of youth who reported that they understand natural resources concepts and ideas.
- Number of youth who reported that have set goals to become a good steward of natural resources.?
Method: Survey
Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity
Outcome: Medium
Indicator:
- Number of youth who reported that have applied the skills they learned in natural resources to other areas of their life, including at home, school and other programs.
- Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to conserve natural resources.
- Number of youth who reported that they have used their skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a natural resources project.
Method: Survey
Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year
Outcome: Long-Term
Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method: Survey
Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year
Learning Opportunities:
Audience: Youth
Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum: Jump Into Food and Fitness
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: September 1 – August 30
Audience: Youth
Project or Activity: Health Rocks
Content or Curriculum:
4-H Health Rocks! Curriculum.
Additional resources include Healthy Bodies: Teaching Kids What They Need to Know
Substance Abuse
Mental Health Services Administration.
Inputs:
- 4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.
- Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects.
- Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association
- Four residential camping facilities.
- Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.
- Utilization of approved research-based curriculum.
- Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.
- Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.
- Funding from local, state, and federal sources.
- Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.
- Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs
Date: September 1 – August 30
Audience: Youth
Project or Activity: Nutrition and Food Preparation
Content or Curriculum: Wellness in Kentucky
Inputs:
- 4-H Family and Consumer Sciences programs in which youth experience a sense of belonging, and developmental relationships, explore their spark, and actively engage in meaningful opportunities.
- Accredited and certified volunteers in 4-H FCS projects.
- Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association
- Four residential camping facilities.
- Cooperative Extension Educational facilities.
- Utilization of approved research-based curriculum.
- Outreach of the Cooperative Extension Land-Grant System.
- Funding from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.
- Funding from local, state, and federal sources.
- Engagement of youth and volunteers in program delivery.
- Engaging communities in identifying and implementing programming based on local needs
Date: September 1 – August 30
Audience: 4-Hers, Extension Professionals, Clientele
Project or Activity: Community, Access & Engagement Programs
Content or Curriculum: 4-H LIFE utilizes the curriculum Essential Elements which is sourced from Shop 4-H. Additional curriculum and content is sourced from Shop 4-H and other Land Grant Systems. Content for Adelante 4-H has been developed by the Land Grant System and sourced from other Land Grant systems. Content for Jr. MANRRS is sourced from the MANRRS society. All curriculum and content focuses on building community, as well as increasing access and engagement of youth.
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: 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: 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: 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
Audience: 4-H Members
Project or Activity: Kentucky 4-H Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences Academy and Teen Ambassador Program??
Content or Curriculum: Water, Entomology, Forestry, Wildlife; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources (e.g., Project WET, Project WILD, Project Learning Tree, Project Underground, Leopold Education Project)?
Inputs:
- 4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.???
- Accredited volunteers in natural resources.???
- Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.???
- Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.???
- Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.???
- Engagement of staff, volunteers, and youth in delivering the program.
Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)
Audience: 4-H Members
Project or Activity: 4-H Natural Resources Projects?(e.g., insect collections, leaf collections, leaf print collections, wood science projects, rock, mineral, and/or fossil collections)
Content or Curriculum: Entomology, Forestry, Wood Science, Geology; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources?
Inputs:
- 4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.???
- Accredited volunteers in natural resources.???
- Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.???
- Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.???
- Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.???
- Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program.
Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)
Audience: 4-H Members
Project or Activity: 4-H Natural Resources Programs (e.g., 4-H Forestry Field Days, 4-H Senior 4-H Forestry Judging Contest, 4-H Wildlife Challenge)
Content or Curriculum: Forestry, Wildlife, Entomology, Water; Curriculum - National and State-Level Research-Based, Vetted Publications, Curricula, and Educational Resources?
Inputs:
- 4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.???
- Accredited volunteers in natural resources.???
- Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.???
- Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.???
- Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.???
- Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program.?
Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)
Audience: 4-H Members
Project or Activity: 4-H Shooting Sports Program
Content or Curriculum: National 4-H Shooting Sports Training Curriculum?
Inputs:
- 4-H programs in natural resources in which youth experience a sense of belonging, developmental relationships, explore their spark, and are actively engaged in opportunities that are meaningful to them.???
- Accredited volunteers in 4-H Shooting Sports.???
- Research base of the Cooperative Extension Land-grant system.???
- Funding opportunities from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, Inc.???
- Funding from local, state, and federal sources, and grants.???
- Engagement of staff, volunteers and youth in delivering the program.
Dates: 4-H Program Year (September 1 – August 31)?
Audience: Adults
Project or Activity: Pesticide Licensing
Content or Curriculum: KDA pesticide licensing
Inputs: KDA, Extension Specialists ,extension agents
Date: Year- round
Audience: Adults
Project or Activity: Riparian Buffer plantings, Rain Gardens
Content or Curriculum: Installing rain gardens and riparian buffers along streams
Inputs: Extension specialists and staff, Bluegrass Green Source, CREEC, City of Danville
Date: Year Round
Audience: Adults and Children
Project or Activity: Earth Day Community Event
Content or Curriculum: Tree City USA,
Inputs: Arbor Day Foundation, Extension Specialists and staff, CREEC, Bluegrass Green Source, City of Danville, Boyle Co. Government
Date: Boyle Co. Earth Day Community Event
Audience: Adults
Project or Activity: Soil Testing
Content or Curriculum: Soil classes, fertilizer classes
Inputs: Regulatory Services, Extension specialists and staff
Date: Year Round
Audience: Adults
Project or Activity: IPM courses
Content or Curriculum: integrated pest management courses
Inputs: Extension specialists and staff, KDA
Date: Year Round
Audience: Adults and Children
Project or Activity: Beekeeping courses
Content or Curriculum: Beekeeping clubs and courses
Inputs: State Apiarist, Extension specialists and staff, Beekeeping Clubs
Date: Year Round
Audience: Adults
Project or Activity: Gardening 101, IPM strategies, Composting, Raised Bed Gardening, Backyard Homesteading
Content or Curriculum: Classes on garden to table products, pest ID and management, basic gardening skills
Inputs: Extension specialists, extension staff, KDA, CCD, KY Horticulture Council
Date: Year-round
Audience: Adults
Project: Invasive Species Workshop
Content or Curriculum: Identification, impacts, and removal of invasive plant species
Inputs: Extension specialists, extension staff, extension office and facilities, publications
Date: Fall
Audience: Housing Authority, Vocational Rehabilitation and Recovery Centers
Project or Activity: Gardening 101, Installing Gardens
Content or Curriculum: Agent classes, Extension Publications, basic gardening skills
Inputs: Extension specialists, extension staff, Publications
Date: Year-round
Audience: Adults and Youth
Project or Activity: Horticulture Walking Club
Content or Curriculum: nature walks, promoting physical activity and health
Inputs: Building connections, healthy lifestyle and visiting surrounding parks, extension office and wildlife refuges
Dates: Spring and Fall
Evaluation:
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
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
Outcome: Short?
Indicator:
- Number of youth who reported that they have identified their interest in natural resources.?
- Number of youth who reported that they understand how their actions and choices impact natural resources and the environment.???
- Number of youth who reported that they understand natural resources concepts and ideas.
- Number of youth who reported that have set goals to become a good steward of natural resources.?
Method: Survey
Timeline: Administered immediately following program/activity
Outcome: Medium
Indicator:
- Number of youth who reported that have applied the skills they learned in natural resources to other areas of their life, including at home, school and other programs.
- Number of youth who reported that they have taken steps to conserve natural resources.
- Number of youth who reported that they have used their skills and/or knowledge gained to complete a natural resources project.
Method: Survey
Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year
Outcome: Long-Term
Indicator: Long-term evaluation will be conducted using the National 4-H Index Study.
Method: Survey
Timeline: Administered at end of program year/club year
- Acting Associate Dean & Director — Craig Wood, Ph.D.
- S107 Ag. Science Center North
- Lexington, KY 40546-0091
- +1 (859) 257-4302
© 2024 University of Kentucky, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment