Describe the Issue or Situation.

In recent years, homesteading has captured the imagination of many seeking a more straightforward, more grounded way of life. More than just a trend, it’s a lifestyle rooted in self-sufficiency, sustainability, and a deep desire to reconnect with the land. Homesteaders often grow their food, raise livestock, and produce goods by hand, reducing dependence on modern industries. They value knowing exactly where their products come from, prioritizing organic, chemical-free practices for the health of their families and the planet. For these individuals and families, homesteading is not just about living off the land — it's about living with intention.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

To meet the growing interest in homesteading and self-sufficiency, the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Agent and the Agriculture (Ag) Agent collaborated to develop and deliver a Homesteading Series from February through July. This hands-on, skills-based educational program was designed to empower participants with practical knowledge and confidence in various aspects of sustainable living.

The series featured monthly classes, each focused on a distinct homesteading skill:

• February – Bread Making

• March – Goat Milk Soap Making

• April – Green Cleaning Products

• May – Pressure Canning

• June – Growing Your Own Vegetables

• July – Beekeeping and Small Ruminant Animals

• Participants received take-home materials including recipes, Extension publications, and other supplemental resources. Each class emphasized practical application, allowing participants to create and take home their products.
  The program was designed to reach a broad audience with the message that homesteading is accessible to everyone, regardless of whether they live on a farm, in a suburban area, or a city. The key message promoted was that with the right tools and knowledge, individuals can build a self-sufficient lifestyle tailored to their environment.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

A total of 32 individuals participated in the series. The audience primarily consisted of white, middle-aged females, with one male participant. Most of the participants either lived on a farm or had prior farm-related experience. This demographic indicates a strong interest in reinforcing or expanding existing self-reliance skills among rural or semi-rural residents.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

Evaluation data was collected through participant feedback and post-class discussions. Responses reflected increased knowledge, enthusiasm, and intent to implement the skills learned:

• 100% of participants reported learning a new skill they had never tried before.

• 90% stated they planned to continue practicing at least one of the homesteading skills at home.

• 85% expressed interest in attending future classes or a continuation of the series.

Sample participant comments included:

• “I love this soap, and it was much easier to make than I thought it would be.”

• “I have never learned how to pressure can before now; I am excited to start!”

• “Can’t wait to go home and try this cleaning product out and make some others to see how they work.”

These responses suggest a meaningful increase in both knowledge and confidence among participants. The series not only equipped individuals with new skills but also fostered a community of learners motivated to adopt more sustainable and self-sufficient lifestyles. As a result, the program contributed to the broader Extension goals of improving quality of life and promoting sustainable living practices.