In 2024, over 108,000 Kentucky 4-H youth participated in Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) projects, dedicating more than 653,000 hours to hands-on learning in areas like Nutrition, Culinary Arts, Sewing, Financial Education, and Entrepreneurship.

These programs are vital as Kentucky faces rising health and economic challenges, including a $36.31 billion obesity cost and shifting job markets. At the same time, industries like Hospitality and Tourism are growing, offering new career paths for youth.

4-H FCS programs provide youth with a sense of belonging, life skills, and career readiness, supported by trained volunteers and positive youth development practices. Kentucky 4-H is preparing the next generation to lead healthier lives and contribute to thriving communities.