The Kentucky 4-H Issues Conference began in 1989 and has been an important part of the Kentucky 4-H Program positive experiences offered each year. The 4-H Issues Conference is a prime example of a successful youth and adult partnership because the entire program design process involves youths and adults. It is important that all voices are heard. The focus of the conference is to teach the process for addressing local issues through identification, planning, implementation, and evaluation. The goal is that the 4-Hers will take the skills and strategies learned back to the community and be able to address an issue in their community. 

Our partnerships in 2024 included the Kentucky 4-H Program, the UK Libraries, the KY State Parks System, Cumberland County Tourism, and the Cumberland County Fiscal Court. The Cumberland County Judge-Executive served as keynote speaker and the tourism board reviewed the final presentations. 

There were 100 4-Hers and 20 Adults in attendance, This was the largest post-Covid attendance. All regions of the State were represented and the attendance represented a diverse population. 

Based on data collected at the end of the conference: 

*My understanding of how to identify local issues: 96% of Delegates reported High/Very High After the Conference 

*My understanding of the process of addressing local issues: 90% of Delegates reported High/Very High after the Conference 

*My Public Presentation Skills: 80% of Delegates reported High/Very High after the Conference 

*Confidence in my ability to make a difference in my community: 80% of Delegates reported High/Very High after the Conference 

Planning has begun for the 2025 4-H Issues Conference.