**Pendleton County Extension Office Country Ham Project: A Recipe for Success**

The Pendleton County Extension Office Country Ham Project has matured over the years, this initiative has grown into a thriving success story, uniting youth, adults, and the local community in the art of preserving country hams.

**Youthful Beginnings:**

It all began with the enthusiasm of 19 4-H youth and 7 Cloverbuds who embarked on the path of preserving and celebrating the iconic country ham. With dedication and guidance from their mentors, they learned the intricate steps of this age-old tradition, instilling values of responsibility, teamwork, and culinary appreciation.

**Expanding Horizons in 2023:**

In a momentous leap, the project expanded its reach in 2023. A partnership between the 4-H Agent & Agricultural Extension Agent brought in 28 adults eager to share in the learning journey. Their expertise and passion further enriched the program, making it an intergenerational endeavor.

**Transferring Wisdom:**

As a remarkable aspect of this expansion, experienced 4-H youth stepped into leadership roles, partnering with the Ag Agent to teach the adults about the history of country ham and demonstrate the proper curing methods. This transfer of knowledge bridged generational gaps and created a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.

**Local Partnerships:**

The project's commitment to local collaboration shone brightly through its alliance with a pastured pig farmer. This partnership ensured a supply of 8 pastured hams of various production methods, and showcased a local farmer, elevating the project's offerings.

**Showcasing Talent at the Kentucky State Fair:**

The pinnacle of the project's achievements was witnessed at the Kentucky State Fair, where the 4-H participants showcased their acquired knowledge. One young participant claimed 1st place in their division for a captivating speech and secured 2nd place overall. Two other participants proudly earned recognition for their hams in their respective age divisions out of over 1,000 hams entered into the state competition.

**Culminating in Style:**

The grand finale of this culinary journey was the 12th annual 4-H Country Ham Dinner & Auction. The event was a testament to the project's resounding success, as the ham auction alone raised over $8,000, with generous add-ons from the community. This not only celebrated the participants' hard work but also ensured the project's sustainability for years to come.

The Pendleton County Extension Office Country Ham Project stands as a shining example of how a shared passion for tradition, learning, and community can transform lives and create a legacy. It's a story of success that continues to enrich the lives of all those involved, and it's a tale that will undoubtedly be told for generations to come in the rolling hills of Pendleton County, Kentucky.