Impact Statement: Bracken County “Lunch and Learn” Series Promotes Lifelong Health and Wellness

The Bracken County Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent, in partnership with the Bracken County Health Department, launched a successful year-long Lunch and Learn series to promote health, safety, and financial wellness among local adults. This free, monthly program featured research-based information and healthy recipes from the University of Kentucky Nutrition Education Program.

Designed to support community well-being, the series focused on timely topics including Disaster Preparedness, Breast Cancer Awareness, Food Safety, Heart Health, Healthy Eating, Diabetes Prevention, Fraud Protection, Estate Planning, and more. Each session provided participants with practical tools to improve their daily lives and long-term health, paired with a delicious, nutritious meal to reinforce healthy eating habits.

Results and Outcomes:

Over 12 months, the program maintained consistent attendance, reaching an average of 10 adults per session.

92% of participants reported learning at least one new strategy to improve their health, safety, or financial well-being.

Participants expressed increased confidence in preparing healthy meals at home and understanding critical health issues like heart attacks and strokes.

Several attendees reported taking action, such as updating their estate plans, creating emergency kits, and reducing sugar intake following the diabetes session.

The program fostered a supportive environment that encouraged community engagement and lifelong learning.

By combining nutrition education with relevant life skills, the Lunch and Learn series has made a measurable difference in the lives of Bracken County residents. This program demonstrates the power of community partnerships and Extension programming in delivering high-impact education to rural communities.