In Hardin County, most youth have limited exposure to the local food system and few opportunities to explore agricultural careers. According to a recent community needs assessment, 75% of respondents felt youth in Hardin County need more life skills training. Additionally, over 74% of respondents identified agricultural-based issues as top community needs—specifically, the sustainability of family farms, preserving/managing agricultural land, and ensuring access to affordable, nutritious food. To address these concerns and engage middle school youth, the Food, Farming, and Community (FFC) program was introduced in an urban school setting through a collaboration between UK Cooperative Extension, local farmers, and educators.

Hardin County 4-H Agent Jocelyn Kemp partnered with North Middle School in Radcliff, KY to deliver the Food, Farming, and Community curriculum to 6th and 7th grade students. This evidence-based program was delivered over a six-week classroom and farm visit series and designed to enhance life skills by increasing awareness of local food systems, nutrition, and agricultural related careers. Program highlights included preparing SNAP-friendly recipes, exploring virtual farming through an esports platform, meeting a local farmer and his heifer, and a culminating field trip to a local farm. These hands-on experiences helped bridge the gap between students and agriculture in a meaningful and accessible way.

Ninety North Middle School students in grades 6 and 7 participated in the program. The program also included two local farming operations as community partners, bringing real-world perspectives into the classroom.

Post-program evaluation showed that students significantly increased their understanding of local food systems and the role they play as consumers and potential producers. Over 80% of participants reported feeling more confident in identifying nutritious foods and how to prepare them. Additionally, 65% of students indicated they had a better understanding of agricultural career options, and several expressed a new interest in pursuing ag-related studies or work. One student shared, “I didn’t know farming could look like this or that there were so many jobs in it.” Through this collaborative effort, youth not only gained life skills but also began seeing themselves as active participants in their local food and agriculture system.