Author: Kelly Jackson
Planning Unit: Christian County CES
Major Program: Horticulture, Consumer and Home
Plan of Work: Nurturing the development of local economic and community growth.
Outcome: Intermediate Outcome
The Christian County 2030 Vision Plan, prepared by the local Chamber of Commerce, is a plan to guide improvements in the community and bring together multiple community partners in a unified approach to achieve progress. One goal of the vision plan seeks economic growth through more retail opportunities. Another goal is to enhance recreational opportunities that bear a low user cost to the average citizen. Utilizing Master Gardener volunteers, the Cooperative Extension Service in Christian County developed and hosted a Garden and Outdoor Living EXPO in April 2023 to provide more retail opportunities to local and regional horticulture product and service providers in a free, family-friendly atmosphere. Short educational classes were offered on the second day. Over 800 local residents interacted with 27 vendors during the 2-day EXPO. A survey of vendors indicated sales totaling nearly $17,000 during the event. Prospective sales estimates by vendors totaled $13,000. Vendors said the EXPO was a valuable tool to help reach their customers. Exit surveys of 349 EXPO attendees, indicated 67% spent money at the Expo and comments included “Enjoyed all the speakers- great topics” and they indicated they “loved the variety of vendors”.
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