The 2023 Community Needs Assessment conducted by the Cooperative Extension Service identified "strengthening youth workforce readiness" and "youth life skill training" as two of the top three priority issues in Christian County. Community stakeholders expressed a need for youth to be better prepared for leadership roles, professional communication, and responsible citizenship—skills essential for both personal success and community growth.

In response, Christian County 4-H and Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) collaborated to develop and deliver a youth leadership program tailored to address these needs. The program focused on effective communication, civil discourse, and etiquette, equipping youth with foundational life and workforce skills.

Through a partnership with Christian County Public Schools, 31 students from the Gifted and Talented Leadership group participated in a hands-on learning experience. Activities included:

• Public speaking exercises
• Structured debates
• Practicing table-setting and dining etiquette during a formal lunch

The program was designed to engage youth through experiential learning, helping them apply their skills in real-time scenarios.

31 youth from the Christian County Public Schools Gifted and Talented Leadership group participated. These students represented a high-achieving population with demonstrated potential for future leadership. The program aimed to enhance their existing abilities with real-world skills that support both professional and personal development.

Post-program surveys showed significant gains in participants’ communication and life skills:

• 100% of youth indicated they gained or strengthened their ability to express their thoughts or opinions.
• 100% reported they used information from the training to communicate with others.
• 100% said they understood how their actions and opinions could impact others.
• 100% indicated they learned new skills to prepare or improve their life.
• 100% reported learning new personal skills as a result of participating in this Extension workforce development program.

These outcomes demonstrate the program’s success in building critical workforce and life skills among youth in Christian County, contributing to a more confident, capable, and civically-minded generation.