The Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA) has been working to improve the quality of life for families locally and globally for more than 92 years through leadership development, volunteer service and education. Cooperative Extension professionals partner with, provide research-based education for, and advise KEHA at the local and state level as members develop and implement educational programs and projects. The program of work for KEHA is organized under eight state educational program chairs and guided by an active board of directors. Kelly May, Senior Extension Associate, is the current state KEHA Advisor.

KEHA reported a continued increase in membership since the COVID-19 pandemic drop. Membership in 2024 totals 11,310. KEHA continues as an active volunteer organization. In 2023, KEHA members reported more than 720,000 volunteer hours with a value of $19.3 million to the Commonwealth. 

KEHA continues to work cooperatively with the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service and Family and Consumer Sciences Extension to improve the quality of life for Kentucky families. Programs educate members and the general public on a wide range of topics of importance to individuals and families. 

Program of work reports from 2023 documented specific impacts from members across the state related to each of the eight educational programs of emphasis. Through Cultural Arts & Heritage, KEHA clubs and county organizations generated more than $36,600 to support KEHA and community projects through sales of cultural arts and crafts items. Through Environment, Housing & Energy, more than 1,700 have learned the effects radon has on their health. About 1,600 members and family members participated in community projects as part of the self-care program of work through KEHA Family & Individual Development. KEHA clubs and county organizations provided more than $29,133 in 4-H camp scholarships. More than 2,300 members bought fresh foods at a local farmers’ market through the encouragement of Food, Nutrition and Health. Through the International program, counties and clubs raised $9,000 for Coins for Change. As part of Leadership Development, KEHA members and clubs reported more than 420,000 volunteer hours for community activities and events. And through Management and Safety, more than 1,700 members indicated they feel prepared to protect their money from fraud because of KEHA programming.

The organization’s 90^th annual State Meeting was a success, taking place May 7-9, 2024, in Bowling Green. More than 450 attendees from across the state, including 61 first-time participants, took part in the three-day meeting celebrating the theme “Blazing the Way with KEHA.” During the event, KEHA presented a check for $47,011.27 in continued support for the UK Ovarian Cancer Research and Screening Program. Three fundraising activities conducted as part of the meeting yielded more than $7,000 to support designated projects. This year the homemakers participated in a service project benefitting the Center for Courageous Kids in Scottsville. At least 14 counties donated about 90 twin-sized bed quilts, including some that were handmade. The KEHA choir performed seven songs, including one with lyrics written as a tribute to Kentucky’s homemakers and Extension. The popular Cultural Arts and Heritage contest included 677 entries that meeting attendees could view and enjoy.