Relevance: According to U.S. Census Bureau data from 2022, approximately 44 million Americans live with a disability, representing 13% of the civilian noninstitutionalized population. In Kentucky, 18.1% of people have a disability trumping the national average. People included in this group experience difficulties with hearing, vision, cognitive, walking, or independent living.  In addition, the National Center for Education Statistics data indicates the percentage of public-school students who receive special education or related services has risen over that past decade.  As these numbers increase, so does the need for educational awareness and institutional support. 

Response: To build strong families across Kentucky, the Family and Consumer Science Extension Department (FCS) in collaboration with the Human Development Institute (HDI) at the University of Kentucky equipped county agents with the resources to make a difference. In 2021, HDI asked a county agent, Kristi Shive, to join a Community Conversations event to learn what needs exist among organizations in her county who work with individuals with disabilities that cooperative extension could address.  The largest need identified was the lack of disability awareness among youth. In 2023 as a part of this mission, FCS Parenting and Child Development Senior Extension Specialist, Dr. David Weisenhorn and FCS Family Health Extension Specialist, Katherine Jury combined efforts to write a 13 lesson Understanding Disability curriculum. Created for young school-aged children aim, each book-led lesson is designed to help build understanding and consideration of others who experience various disabilities.  

Results: During the 2023-2024 fiscal year, 105 county extension agents received training including a learning session from HDI collaborators on inclusive language regarding disability, roll-out of the curriculum package, and opportunities to engage in program planning. Over 90% of agents trained reported learning new and helpful information, and nearly all agents stated this is a program they plan to implement in the 2024-2025 fiscal year. 

Public Value Statement:  When you support Extension family programing, communities gain the knowledge that builds awareness which leads to beneficial change in the community.