In a collaborative effort to address youth financial literacy, Knott County 4-H, Knott Co Board of Education, Beaver, Carr Creek, Cordia, Emmalena, Hindman, and Jones Fork Elementary Family Youth Resource Service Coordinators and Knott Co Gear-Up, provided countywide 8^th graders with University of Kentucky’s 4-H “It’s Your Reality” program.   Knowledge gained and applied showed positive results from pre and post evaluations.

Percentage of youth who demonstrated a proficient understanding of the following concepts after participating in the UK 4-H “It’s Your Reality” program:

1. Navigating everyday needs vs wants to budget a monthly salary 93% 
2. Recognizes how current school grades effect future career opportunities 90% 
3. Realizes the impact of school performance & career choice on future lifestyle 92.5% 
4. Understanding monthly expenses associated with maintaining a household 92% 
5. Identifying the expenses and relating the cost of raising a child 91.5% 
6. Grasps the importance of saving for future economic goals 92% 

An additional indication of program impact is the percentage of total youth audience who reported a poor understanding pre-program and progressed to a proficient level of understanding post program participation.  

1. Navigating everyday needs vs wants to budget a monthly salary 43% significant change in Knowledge, Skills and/or Behaviors of total youth audience
2. Recognizes how current school grades effect future career opportunities 31% 
3. Realizes the impact of school performance & career choice on future lifestyle 35%
4. Understanding monthly expenses associated with maintaining a household 36% 
5. Identifying the expenses and relating the cost of raising a child 64%
6. Grasps the importance of saving for future economic goals 43% 

            We truly value our amazing volunteers!  53 KCCHS teen volunteers contributed combined total of 424 volunteer hours to the program.  According to the 2023 Kentucky volunteer rate, the in-kind contribution totals $12,096.72 to the county program.                                                                                                                                                      

Their impact on the program goes beyond monetary value.  The effort and mentoring opportunity truly enhance the experience for the younger youth. These teens put in the extra effort to dress the parts of the store fronts to contribute to an enjoyable and interactive learning experience.  They make the day!