Number and Description of Participants / Target Audience:
In response to rising food insecurity and declining food preparation skills among youth, the Jefferson County 4-H Program launched Cooking with a Purpose, a hands-on cooking club designed to teach practical culinary skills and promote healthy habits. This year alone, the program reached over 60 youth through before- and after-school sessions held at two elementary schools and two middle schools. Each six-session club welcomed up to 20 participants per group and included youth from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, many of whom face barriers to consistent access to healthy, home-cooked meals.

Program Description:
Using trusted resources such as Super Star Chef, Plate It Up Kentucky, and Plan Eat Move. Each lesson focused on essential kitchen skills, food safety, recipe reading, and nutrition education. Lessons ranged from breakfast preparation and pantry-based meals to incorporating more fruits and vegetables into everyday cooking. Youth were actively engaged in planning, preparing, and tasting meals—many for the first time.

Participants advanced in skill levels across sessions, with returning youth given opportunities to build on foundational knowledge and develop more advanced culinary techniques. The clubs also served as a space to explore how food is grown, sourced, and consumed, increasing awareness of the food system and local food access options.

Statement of Outcomes / Program Impact:
Evaluation data from the past year provides clear evidence of the program’s success and its impact on individual and family well-being:

• Over 90% of participants reported learning at least one new cooking skill.
• 92% of youth stated they had tried a food they had never eaten before as a result of the program.
• 88% reported feeling more confident preparing a simple meal at home following the club sessions.
• 76% of participants said they were more likely to help prepare meals with their families at home.
• Several youth shared that they had re-created recipes at home, demonstrating retention and application of knowledge beyond the classroom setting.

Beyond skills development, Cooking with a Purpose sparked conversations about food affordability, smart grocery shopping, and making healthy choices within limited budgets—crucial lessons for families facing food insecurity. Educators and family members have noted improved engagement in food-related activities at home and expressed appreciation for the program’s influence on their children’s independence and confidence.

Conclusion:
Cooking with a Purpose goes beyond teaching youth how to follow a recipe—it fosters resilience, empowers healthy decision-making, and supports lifelong habits that can help reduce food insecurity and strengthen family bonds. Through this initiative, 4-H is cultivating the next generation of confident cooks, informed consumers, and thoughtful leaders in Jefferson County. The program’s success lays a strong foundation for continued growth and expanded outreach in the years to come.