Many individuals and families in rural Kentucky lack the necessary knowledge to prepare estate plans that protect their assets, reduce legal burdens, and ensure proper care for their loved ones. Confusion around wills, trusts, power of attorney, probate processes, and guardianship often results in families being unprepared in times of crisis. Without proactive planning, families may face costly legal processes, conflicts, or the unintended distribution of property.

To address these challenges, the Livingston County Extension Office hosted a free Estate Planning Workshop on May 1, 2025, at the Extension Office in Smithland, KY. The program was facilitated in partnership with Whitlow, Roberts, Houston & Straub, PLLC, with legal professionals Teris Swanson and Eric Straub leading the presentation. Topics covered included the difference between wills and trusts, healthcare directives, probate avoidance, guardianship for minors, and strategies for long-term care planning.  A total of 47 participants attended the workshop. Attendees represented a diverse group, including retirees, parents of young children, farmers, and small business owners. Most participants had limited prior knowledge of estate planning and were seeking tools to help protect their families and assets.
Evaluation data showed a measurable increase in participants’ understanding and confidence regarding estate planning topics:

• 87% of participants improved their understanding of how to manage or address estate planning issues affecting their families or businesses.
• 91% reported being better able to identify appropriate estate planning strategies.
• 85% indicated increased confidence in handling estate or financial matters.

Behavioral intentions also showed strong results:

• 93% of participants indicated they would set at least one estate planning goal for their family or business.
• 89% planned to take action toward implementing at least one estate planning strategy.
• 81% committed to fully implementing a strategy discussed during the workshop.

Satisfaction was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority strongly agreeing that the information was timely, practical, and applicable to their personal or professional lives. One participant wrote, “I finally understand the difference between a will and a trust. This workshop gave me peace of mind.”

This workshop provided individuals and families with the tools and motivation to make informed legal and financial decisions, ultimately promoting stability, reducing court involvement, and strengthening community resilience.