The Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA) is a volunteer organization that works to improve the quality of life for families and communities through leadership development, volunteer service, and education. Developing effective leaders is critical for the future and success of the Homemaker organization. This has been quite a challenge for many counties.

The Homemaker membership in Powell County as of January 2023, was 27 members. For many years, Powell County only offered one traditional day-time club and one specialty day-time club (quilting). As an effort to grow membership in 2023, the Powell County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent started an Evening Homemaker club to reach a broader audience. Additionally, to entice members of the community to join their local homemakers, the FCS Agent offered several programs throughout the year at reduced or no cost for members. In partnership with the Agent, Homemaker members planned a Family Holiday event to serve as a membership drive at the end of 2023.

This strategy helped to almost double the homemaker membership in Powell County by January 2024 with 48 paid members. Homemaker members have taken advantage of leadership development opportunities by attending area and state meetings. Two members have accepted leadership positions by serving as Bluegrass Area Vice President and Leadership Development Chair. Several members have volunteered to lead educational workshops in partnership with FCS Extension such as beginner sewing and crochet. The specialty quilt club has plans to participate in the Dresses for Africa community service project. Lastly, Powell County homemaker members are gearing up to host the Bluegrass Area Annual Homemaker Meeting in Fall 2024.