Describe the Issue or Situation.

In the past, the Louisville Area Extension Homemaker members participated in individual monthly leader lessons presented at each county's Extension office. Each lesson was taught by one Family & Consumer Sciences agent who traveled to each of the seven counties in the area. However, these lessons often had low attendance, which led to concerns about the program’s effectiveness and use of resources. The Area Extension Homemaker Council recognized the need for a more efficient approach that would attract greater participation while providing valuable content. As a result, the council voted to consolidate the lessons into a single, area-wide seminar, with the support of Family and Consumer Sciences Agents, who would lead the lessons. 

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

A one-day seminar was held for members in the seven counties, offering four engaging lessons: "Using Your Air Fryer," "Scam Red Flags & Avoiding Fraud," "Handy to Have Emergency Health Information Cards," and "Savvy Online Grocery Shopping." Nearly 50 participants attended a significant increase compared to the total attendance from all seven counties in previous years. Homemaker members from across the area were able to connect, exchange ideas, and learn in a more time-efficient format. The seminar provided a valuable opportunity for networking, personal development, and education. Attendees were encouraged to share the information learned to their counties and clubs with other members.  

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

Nearly 50 participants attended a significant increase compared to the total attendance from all seven counties in previous years. Homemaker members from across the area were able to connect, exchange ideas, and learn in a more time-efficient format. 

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 the community because of the program/outreach.

The seminar provided a valuable opportunity for networking, personal development, and education. Attendees were encouraged to share the information learned to their counties and clubs with other members. 

Evaluation results from the seminar demonstrated its success. Participants reported that the topics were highly relevant, with 90% of attendees stating they found the lessons well-organized and applicable to their daily lives. Many participants valued the new seminar format, with over 80% saying they preferred having multiple classes in one day rather than attending separate sessions once a month. The program not only reached a larger audience but also had a measurable impact on the participants' knowledge, particularly in online shopping and fraud prevention. As a result, Extension Homemaker members left the seminar feeling more informed and empowered, with new tools and skills to enhance their daily lives. Plans are being made to offer this same format for leader lessons presented each spring and fall.