Close Resources

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu

Impacts

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu




Fiscal Year:
Jul 1, 2024 - Jun 30, 2025


Success StorySew it, Grow it, Cook it



Sew it, Grow it, Cook it

Author: Cheyenne Lamb

Planning Unit: Montgomery County CES

Major Program: Horticulture, Consumer and Home

Plan of Work: Active Living and Health Promotions

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

Describe the Issue or Situation
 In today’s fast-paced world, many youth lack opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences that build practical life skills like sewing, gardening, and cooking. Recognizing a need for meaningful summer enrichment activities, especially for upper elementary students, the Family Resource and Youth Services Centers (FRYSCs) at Mt. Sterling and Camargo Elementary Schools sought to partner with community programs that promote creativity, self-sufficiency, and healthy living.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable)
 To address this need, the Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Service hosted a three-day summer camp, "Sew It, Grow It, Cook It," in partnership with the FRYSCs and supported by the Horticulture and Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) programs. The camp offered a unique blend of hands-on experiences in sewing, gardening, and cooking to help students gain valuable life skills in a fun and engaging way.

A certified Master Clothing Volunteer and her students generously contributed their time and expertise to lead sewing instruction. Extension agents from both Horticulture and FCS facilitated gardening and nutrition education activities, providing students with real-world experiences to apply at home and in their communities.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience
 A total of 26 students entering 4th and 5th grades participated in the camp—13 students from Mt. Sterling Elementary and 13 from Camargo Elementary. The target audience included youth from diverse backgrounds, many of whom receive services through the Family Resource Centers. Campers were selected by school coordinators based on interest and need, with the goal of providing enriching summer opportunities to underserved populations.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact
 Program evaluations and feedback from both participants and school partners demonstrated strong outcomes:

  • 92% of participants reported learning at least one new life skill (sewing, gardening, or cooking).
  • 85% said they were more confident using kitchen tools safely.
  • 100% of students expressed excitement about sharing what they learned with their families.
  • FRYSC coordinators reported increased student engagement and noted the camp fostered teamwork, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment.
  • One parent commented, “My child came home each day eager to show us what she learned—especially her sewing project! This camp gave her so much confidence.”

This collaborative program not only taught essential skills but also fostered pride, independence, and healthy habits among Montgomery County youth. Plans are already underway to expand the program in future summers due to its positive reception and proven impact.







Stories by Cheyenne Lamb


Beginning Beekeepers

about 16 days ago by Cheyenne Lamb

Interest in beekeeping has surged among Central Kentucky residents, especially small-scale producers... Read More


Growing Gardeners: Mapleton Elementary Junior Gardener Day Camp

about 16 days ago by Cheyenne Lamb

At Mapleton Elementary in Montgomery County, two raised beds and two large concrete planters on scho... Read More


Stories by Montgomery County CES


Sew WHAT?!

Sew WHAT?!

about 3 months ago by Sarah Congleton

Sew WHAT?!, a transformative sewing program, has blossomed into a beacon of community empowerment, p... Read More


Healthy Vittles

Healthy Vittles

about 6 months ago by Sarah Congleton

Healthy Vittles Cooking Series for the Holiday SeasonAt Montgomery County Cooperative Extension Serv... Read More


Stories by Horticulture, Consumer and Home


"Growing Together: The Success of Educational Garden Tours with the Washington County Garden Club"

"Growing Together: The Success of Educational Garden Tours with the Washington County Garden Club"

about 15 days ago by James Morgeson

Educational horticulture day trips with the Washington County Garden Club have proven to be a great ... Read More


Reduce Kitchen Waste With Vermicomposting

Reduce Kitchen Waste With Vermicomposting

about 15 days ago by James Morgeson

Participants in a recent vermicomposting workshop walked away with new skills, greater environmental... Read More