The problem

Inclusivity at county fair 

The educational program response

Sunshine Day

The participants/target audience

differently abeled and sensory issue adults and youth

Other partners (if applicable)

Community volunteers

Program impact or participant response.

Sunshine Day at Bourbon County Fair

For the second consecutive year, Bourbon County Extension helped plan and implement the second “Sunshine Day” at the county fair.  This free family event creates a fun but calmer event for adults and youth with special needs and sensory processing disorders.

There were two sessions of Bourbon County Sunshine Day.  First session was a morning through early afternoon session for adults 21 and over with special needs.  There were 175 participants in this session.  Each participant had the opportunity to:

1. Visit the project exhibit area
2. Face Painting
3. Ride the fair carousel
4. Participate in one carnival game
5. Visit the petting zoo
6. Decorate their personal sun visor
7. Enjoy the DJ and music on stage
8. Free snow cones (made and provided by 4-H members)
9. Blender Bike smoothies

A free lunch was provided for all participants, volunteers and caregivers (approximately 200 meals) by the 4-H Council.  

The second session was conducted during late afternoon hours and planned for developmentally challenged youth 20 and under.  There were youth from 16 families participating in these two hours of fun-filled event.  Activities included:

1. Petting Zoo
2. Sensory play area
3. Corn Crib game
4. Face painting
5. Crafting
6. Carousel rides
7. Obstacle Course
8. Opportunity for each to participate in a special goat show (with awards included)

The public in attendance at the goat show learned of the importance of low stimulation for individuals with sensory processing disorders.  They were instructed how to encourage and support the exhibitors with sign language rather than cheering and clapping.

Three members of the Extension Office staff served on the planning committee for this event and the entire office served as volunteers to make this a successful day for all.  

Enjoying the excitement and fun activities is something that most individuals take for granted.  The opportunity to participate in the activities, fellowship and smells of the fair are not an opportunity for all, due to various limitations.  Bourbon County Extension helped plan an implement a day at the fair that made this enjoyment possible by planning adaptations for those needed.