Grant County 4-H continues its youth outreach and engagement to underserved audiences. We are committed to the positive growth of the underserved population in Northern Kentucky, including children, youth, and adults from all different cultural backgrounds.

Northern Kentucky School Districts counted 2,939 students as homeless during the 2016-17 school year.  The figure includes Boone, Campbell, Gallatin, Grant, Kenton, and Pendleton Counties.  These children were either living on the street, in cars, shelters, low cost hotels, or with family and friends. The Grant County NEP program, in conjunction with Lovesome Stables Equitherapy Staff and Volunteers, Upspring, and a Grant County’s Master Food Volunteer, had the opportunity to work for two days with homeless youth from Northern Kentucky.  Lovesome Stables Equitherapy provides a therapeutic equestrian environment for individuals with life challenges and Upspring works to serve the educational needs of homeless children and youth.  One of the Upspring instructors stated that several of the children were dealing with mental health issues.  The sixty children, who attended the program, ranged in ages from six to sixteen.  In addition to their time getting to ride horses, fish in a pond, and do an art project, Grant County NEP had the opportunity to do lessons from Professor Popcorn with the children.  They were given the opportunity to make their own lunch in addition to learning about handwashing, food safety, dairy, and my plate.  The children were very proud of preparing their own lunch.  Several stated they never had the opportunity to cook before.  One child stated “I’ve never had food like this before, it’s really good.” By the end of the program the children could identify the food groups, recalled half their plates should include fruits and vegetables, and demonstrated proper handwashing techniques. 

Grant County 4-H also assists with the Lovesome Stables Equitherapy Annual Horse Show by providing lunch, trophies and strong backs.  This year we supported 35 youth riders that have a wide variety of disabilities.  This program definitely benefits the riders with disabilities, but even more it makes an impact on the 4-H’ers who give of their time.  Several 4-H’ers have helped for several years and they consistently state that the time assisting with this program gives them a greater appreciation for what they have and also the time spent bonding with some of the riders is priceless.  Even the parents of participants enjoy and remember the day. ““It was a great day for everyone....and Chris still carries his medal with him wherever he goes....ready to whip it out at a second's notice to share memories of such a great occasion!!!"  The life experience gained in this program will benefit all involved for years to come.