Modern Homesteading member selling her art, Homemakers bazaar 2023The problem:  During a summer canning class participants were discussing the desire to learn many new skills. The challenge was the knowledge of fundamental skills that were once commonplace in households.  The participants expressed a desire to reconnect with these "old" skills such as canning, sewing, family support, food dehydration, small farm animal production, and artistic endeavors.   

The educational program response:  In response to the shared need for a return to basic homemaking and life skills, the Calloway County Cooperative Extension Service and the Family and Consumer Science agent, facilitated the formation of a new Homemakers Club.  The focus of the Modern Homesteading club was to learn and revive skills such as canning, food dehydration, sewing, small scale farming and socially conscientious gardening. 

The participants/target audience: The club meets monthly, with each meeting featuring an educational lesson of their choosing on a specific skill or topic.  The club focuses on shared common interests enhancing their homemaking and family support skills. 

Other partners (if applicable)

Program impact or participant response:  Beyond individual skill development, the club has had a positive impact on the wider community. Members have started small scale farming initiatives, shared produce, fresh eggs and crafts with members of the community and other Homemaker clubs.   As it continues to grow, the club not only preserves "old skills" but also cultivates a sense of connection, resilience, and sustainability within the community.  Several of the Modern Homesteading Homemakers sold some produce, eggs and arts and crafts at a bazaar held in the fall in conjunction with a county homemaker yard sale.  Some of the Modern Homesteading members have taught children and adults basic art and craft classes.