The Pulaski County Detention Center houses approximately 350 inmates.  About 9 years ago, the Pulaski County Horticulture Agent had worked with an officer at the jail to assist them in growing their own vegetables.  Extension has a mission to try to serve those underserved audiences so another contact was made with the Programs Director at the detention center. 

     After being a part of another prison program in McCreary Co and talking to another Horticulture Agent with experience in this, what was born was an Introductory Landscape Horticulture Techniques Program.  Master Gardener teaching materials were used, however, the men would not be able to complete any volunteer hours so the Master Gardener name could not be used.

     Sixteen men housed in the detention center were interested in the program.  None had ever been aware what the Extension office had to offer.  The goal was to have them leave the facility with a certificate from the University of Kentucky that officially recognized that they went through this educational program. 

     Eleven sessions were taught August through September 2017.  Two specialists from UK and the ANR agent helped teach the program.  Ultimately, 15 men received their certificates that stated they had completed this program.  The ultimate goal is gainful employment once released.