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: Initial 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 is to seek economic growth through more retail opportunities. Another goal is to enhance recreational opportunities with 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 2024 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 30 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 $104,000. Vendors said the EXPO was a valuable tool to help reach their customers. Exit surveys of 381 EXPO attendees indicated 68% spent money at the Expo, and comments included “Speakers were great” and “Love coming to this event”.
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