In Johnson County, economic uncertainty—driven by job market fluctuations and agricultural shifts—affects youth through unstable family environments and limited resources. A recent community needs assessment identified youth life skills training as the top priority, highlighting the urgent need to prepare young people for successful, self-sufficient futures.

According to Kentucky by the Numbers, over 30% of children in Johnson County live in poverty, and more than 1,500 youth receive SNAP assistance. Additionally, over 2,400 youth in our county are classified as economically disadvantaged. As poverty rates continue to rise in our region, it is critical that local youth are equipped with the skills and tools needed to make sound financial decisions.

To address this need, Johnson County 4-H partnered with the Flat Gap Family Resource Center and the 21st Century Grant Representative to offer an after-school financial literacy program for 4th–6th grade students, using the Dollars and Sense curriculum. Participants engaged in activities such as “Needs vs. Wants” and “How Much Do I Cost?”

A total of 16 youth and one adult volunteer participated in the program.

At the conclusion of the activities, participants completed a post-program survey. The results showed:

• 93% reported an increased awareness of the challenges involved in managing money.
• 68% said they would be more cautious when making purchases in the future.
• 75% indicated they would consider their budget before buying items.

When asked what surprised them most about the program, students responded:

1. “How much money it really costs to buy stuff.”
2. “How much food and stuff my mom and dad buy for me and my sisters.”
3. “Stuff is really expensive—and even more expensive when you add them together.”
4. “It’s a lot of money for a parent to buy stuff for us and themselves.”
5. “That potato chips are a want, not a need.”

This program equipped participating youth with foundational financial literacy skills critical to their future independence and decision-making. As a result of the activities, students demonstrated increased awareness of budgeting, spending habits, and the distinction between needs and wants. The program empowered students to think more critically about their role in family finances and the real-life costs of everyday items. The success of this initiative highlights the importance of continuing and expanding youth financial literacy programming in Johnson County.