A successful team effort in marketing extension in Campbell County has been our Community Celebration- Open House.  This event helps increase awareness among residents and the surrounding communities about The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service.  Across Kentucky, Extension continues to be the “best kept secret”.  In an effort to build awareness about extension and the research-based information and activities that are available, The Campbell County Cooperative Extension Service Team held this event at the Highland Heights Office on Saturday, September 10^th, 2022.  This was the sixth year for this family-friendly event and over 550 people attended this year which is about triple the attendance of the past years.   

Community partners were invited to participate in this event also.  These included the Campbell County Public Library, local food trucks, Campbell County Cattlemen Association, Beekeepers Association, Campbell County Police Department, a local chainsaw artist and the Northern KY Dulcimers provided entertainment.

In addition, extension agents, program assistants, staff and extension volunteers had booths and displays that highlighted programs, activities and available resources.  Horticulture provided resources on sustainable gardening highlighted an insect display and the importance of insects in our gardens.   4-H offered youth programs including nature crafts, paper flower craft and engaging games to excite the youth.   The 4-H Horse and Livestock Club members brought their animals to share with those attending and the miniature horse was especially popular.  Also popular were the goats used by FCS for Goat Yoga instruction.  Ag shared an herb bar and beef recipes to spark a new flavor in cooking beef and the Environmental Agent gave out free compost bins and talked about benefits of composting.

As a result of this team program, new contacts were make and 4-H Enrollment forms were collected for new and returning members.  On a written survey 55% of survey respondents indicated they plan to participate in future extension programs with many responding that 4-H and Cloverbuds as their programs of interest.  Plans are to continue this successful program.  The 2023 Open House & Community Celebration will be held on September 9^th from 10 AM – 2 PM.