Civic engagement helps create and cultivate vibrant communities.  Studies have shown social capital is necessary for effective government and economic development.  Social capital are the individuals in a community who engage in the legislative process, serve on local boards and councils, keep aware of news and events, and contribute to ideas and initiatives that are important to the community.  

Overall in the U.S., social capital has been on the decline.  Kentucky ranks 48^th in civic health.  In response to the need to increase civic engagement, Cooperative Extension offices in the Green River Area conducted an Empowering Local Leaders program delivered to County Extension Council members.Extension agents taught the basics of the state and federal legislative process.  Agents also encouraged participants to communicate with their elected officials on issues important to them, and shared with them methods of effective communication.

A pre and posttest was given to participants.  After the presentation, 98% increased their knowledge of the legislative process.  After the program 97% indicated they felt more prepared to contact an elected official about an issue important to them.  Due to the program, 53% are likely to contact an elected official in the next three months concerning topics that concern them and their community.  

A follow-up session was conducted to give leaders a legislative update from the Kentucky General Assembly.  After the update 98% of the council members had a better understanding of the legislative process and are more likely to contact an elected official.  Since the first meeting, 54% put their knowledge to practice by contacting an elected official about a topic that was important to them.