Close Resources

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu

Impacts

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu




Fiscal Year:
Jul 1, 2024 - Jun 30, 2025


Success StoryEmpowering Local Leaders



Empowering Local Leaders

Author: Jessica Hopkins

Planning Unit: Harrison County CES

Major Program: Community Engagement

Plan of Work: Community Engagement and Economic Development

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Civic engagement helps create and cultivate vibrant communities.  Studies have shown social capital is necessary for effective government and economic development.  Part of social capital is engaging in the legislative process, serving on local boards/councils, and contributing in topics important to that community.

Overall in the US, social capital has been on the decline.  Currently, Kentucky ranks 48th in civic health.  In response to the need to increase civic engagement, the Harrison County Cooperative Extension Service participated in an “Empowering Local Leaders” program.  The program was delivered to the County Extension Council.  Extension agents taught participants the basics of the state and federal legislative process.  Agents also encouraged connecting with their legislative officials on issues that are important to them and outlined a step by step process to communicate effectively with them.

After the presentation, 47% increased their knowledge of the legislative process.  After the program, 93% indicated they felt more prepared to contact an elected official about an issue that concerned them.  Due to the program, 60% are likely to contact an elected official in the next six months on topics that concern them or their community.

A follow-up survey will be distributed to members of the County Extension Council within the next year to gauge CEC member involvement with local and state elected officials.






Stories by Jessica Hopkins


Living With Alpha-Gal Webinar Event

Living With Alpha-Gal Webinar Event

about 25 days ago by Jessica Hopkins

Living with Alpha Gal Syndrome Webinar EventDescribe the situationWhile still considered “rare” rela... Read More


Giant Pumpkin Contest and Teal Pumpkin Project Trunk or Treat

Giant Pumpkin Contest and Teal Pumpkin Project Trunk or Treat

about 3 months ago by Jessica Hopkins

Describe the Issue or SituationCynthiana and Harrison County, Kentucky, are well-known for their fal... Read More


Stories by Harrison County CES


Living with Alpha-Gal Webinar Event

Living with Alpha-Gal Webinar Event

about 22 days ago by Jessica Barnes

Living with Alpha Gal Syndrome WebinarSuccess StoryWhile still considered “rare” relative to other m... Read More


Living With Alpha-Gal Webinar Event

Living With Alpha-Gal Webinar Event

about 25 days ago by Jessica Hopkins

Living with Alpha Gal Syndrome Webinar EventDescribe the situationWhile still considered “rare” rela... Read More