The problem

Researchers at Rutgers University attested to an increasingly large body of research that demonstrates activities in  horticulture can be used “as a therapeutic modality for people with physical, mental, emotional, and social disabilities, as plants are non-discriminating and non-threatening, and anyone can be successful utilizing this medium.” It was further stated that working plants and successful participation in horticultural activities “have unique qualities that lend themselves well to the rehabilitation of individuals as . . . success with plants can lead to successes in other aspects of life."

The educational program response

Since 2017, the Scott County Horticulture Program has offered custom wreath making workshops for the community during the Holiday season (November and December). Using the ‘No Hammer” wreathmaking frames and machines, individuals make custom wreaths and swags  using live greenery purchased  from a “Kentucky Proud” tree farm, and supplemented with evergreens harvested from local farms and landscapes. Individuals are taught how to use the supplies at hand to construct wreaths/swags to enhance their holiday décor. They also learn how to identify and use different evergreen species. This has proven to be a popular class, with many stating they escape holiday stress for a while, and meet with friends and family over an enjoyable activity. For many, it has become a Holiday tradition. 

However, the program is ever evolving. What began as one wreath making class offered in 2017, expanded to six classes in 2022. Many first time extension participants in wreath making have now attended other Scott County Extension programs and classes as well. In 2023, more classes were added to reach under served , at risk audiences and youth. Workshops were held for  women, families and students from a  local drug  rehabilitation center, a  local  alternative education high school program, and 4-H Horticulture Club. . Classes were held at the Scott County Cooperative Extension facility and the nontraditional learning environment, along with hands on activities appealed to these class participants. 

The participants/target audience

Community at large, drug rehabilitation facility residents, alternative education students, 4-H youth

Other partners (if applicable)

Scott County Public Schools, Mary's Safe Haven Rehabiltiation Center

Program impact or participant response.

Community at large - mitigate holiday stress, by meeting with friends and family over an enjoyable activity. For many, it has become a Holiday tradition

 Participants from the rehabilitation center - stated that they felt like they had gained confidence by completing a series of tasks which resulted in completion of an  aesthetically pleasing creation for their home environment. They were proud of their decorations and want to do more horticultural activities! 

Students from the alternative education program - were reluctant to participate in the beginning, soon saw the possibility of creating something which was, in their eyes, worthwhile and “pretty.” In open discussion, one student stated that it was not what he was expecting and he would now be willing to participate in more extension horticultural activities, with a group of students excitedly agreeing.

4-H Youth - learned how to identify and use different evergreen species,  earned a sense of accomplishment at mastering new knowledge