In a collaborative effort, Knott County 4-H, Knott Co Board of Education, KCCHS, Beaver, Carr Creek, Cordia, Emmalena, Hindman, and Jones Fork Elementary schools through their Family Youth Resource Service Coordinators participated in University of Kentucky’s 2022-23“It’s Your Reality” program.  The program focus is financial literacy and life skills Knott County’s 8^th grade students participate annually in the event.  

Our Teen volunteers are essential to the program’s success.  34 KCCHS teen volunteers contributed a combined total of 238 volunteer hours.  According to the 2020 national volunteer rate for Kentucky, this totals $5,948 in-kind contribution to the program. Other adult community volunteers provided support, as well, for a successful learning opportunity.

Results showed overall positive impact of knowledge gained: 

Percentage of youth who indicated an excellent understanding of the concepts after participating in UK – “It’s Your Reality” program:

• Budgeting money 89% 
• Making wise financial choices 93% 
• Understanding the effect school performance & career choice on future lifestyle 95% 
• Cost of maintaining a household 86% 
• Cost of raising a child 90% 
• How the amount of income will affect lifestyle habits and purchasing ability 89% 
• The importance of saving for future economic goals 82% 

Percentage of youth who indicated a poor understanding of the concepts after participating in UK- “It’s Your Reality” program:

• Budgeting money 3% 
• Making wise financial choices 5% 
• Understanding the effect school performance & career choice on future lifestyle 2% 
• Cost of maintaining a household 6% 
• Cost of raising a child 3% 
• How the amount of income will affect lifestyle habits and purchasing ability 3% 
• The importance of saving for future economic goals 3%