The 2023 UK Cooperative Extension Community Needs Assessment revealed that Hardin County residents view youth life skill development as a critical need, with 75% of respondents expressing concern about youth being unprepared with basic skills for adulthood. Additionally, over 74% of participants identified top community issues as being agriculture-related, including the sustainability of family farms and the need to preserve and manage agricultural land. As rural traditions fade and fewer young people are directly connected to farming, opportunities like the 4-H Country Ham Project help youth learn practical skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for Kentucky’s agricultural heritage and food systems. In addition to preparing the product of food, youth age 9 and up delve into a public speaking lesson where they compete in the County 4-H Speech and Demonstrations contest. The 4-H Country Ham Project helps address these challenges by blending agricultural education with hands-on learning, food science, and public speaking. 

The Hardin County 4-H Country Ham Project offered youth ages 5 and up a unique opportunity to learn about food preservation, Kentucky agriculture, and communication skills. With guidance from 4-H Agent, Jocelyn Kemp, and certified 4-H Livestock Leader, David Street, youth learned to cure and age their own country hams over a multi-month process. In addition to the agricultural component, the project also included a strong communication piece—each participant was required to write and present a speech, competing at least at the county level through 4-H, with opportunities to advance to are or state communications contests. This dual focus on agriculture and public speaking created a well-rounded learning experience that aligned with the county's goals of life skill development and agricultural education.

Fifteen (15) youth from Hardin County, ranging in age from 6 to 16, participated in the 2025 4-H Country Ham Project.

Many youth reported increased confidence in public speaking, with several saying it was their first time presenting in front of an audience. Parents noted that their children showed greater responsibility, time management, and pride in their work. Additionally, 80% of participants shared that they had a better understanding of Kentucky’s agricultural heritage and food systems, and 60% expressed interest in participating in another agriculture-related 4-H project. Through this project, youth not only gained practical skills and confidence but also became more connected to their community’s heritage and agricultural roots.