Describe the Issue or Situation.

The Pike County community needs assessment identified the need for more cross-program collaborations as well as programs that engage senior citizens and teach new skills. Community Arts (CA) and Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) program areas wanted to address these issues as well as introduce each other’s audiences to examples of the other’s programming. 

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

Pike County Community Arts introduced Brush ‘n Brunch, a painting class followed by a delicious and nutritious brunch recipe demonstration, a year ago. FCS joined nine months ago and the program has been offered monthly to participants. Recently, Community Arts surveyed participants to see how their views and behaviors have changed. During classes, participants are taught art techniques in acrylic painting. They paint their own canvas and are shown how to prepare a healthy recipe by FCS, leaving with a recipe card.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

18 participants, consisting of mostly seniors and Homemakers

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

After nine months of participation, 100% of respondents reported an increase in knowledge, opinions, and/or skills in the arts due to Brush 'n Brunch. 100% of respondents also reported an increase in creativity due to their participation in Brush 'n Brunch. 87.5% of respondents reported increased focus as well as increased confident or self-esteem in creating art. 100% of respondents reported an increase of perseverance and mindfulness.