The Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA) has been working to improve the quality of life for families locally and globally for more than 85 years through leadership development, volunteer service and education. Cooperative Extension professionals partner with, provide research-based education for and advise KEHA at the local and state level as members develop and implement educational programs and projects. The program of work for KEHA is organized under eight state educational program chairs and guided by an active board of directors.

For the second time in four years, KEHA celebrated a statewide increase in membership. Program of work reports from 2017 documented specific impacts from the more than 14,400 members across the state related to each educational program emphasis. Through the family and individual development program, more than 2,000 members reported making a healthy lifestyle change as a result of a KEHA lesson. In support of 4-H and youth development, KEHA members provided more than $21,500 in funding for 4-H camp scholarships and volunteered more than 73,000 hours for youth activities. Approximately 31% of KEHA members reported changing their diet to improve health as a result of the KEHA food, nutrition and health programs. Through the KEHA international program, more than $3,500 was raised to support international projects through the Associated Country Women of the World. A member of KEHA traveled to the Philippines and distributed 140 water filters purchased with funds collected as part of the organization’s clean water program. In the area of cultural arts and heritage, sales of arts and crafts generated more than $37,000 in funding for community projects. The environment, housing and energy program documented that members grew and preserved more than 50,000 quarts of fruits and vegetables. As part of leadership development programming, KEHA awarded scholarships for higher education at the club, county and area levels totaling more than $86,000. Through the management and safety program, 16% of KEHA members learned to maximize profits and savings at yard sales and consignment shops.

 The Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association continues as an active volunteer organization creating improvements in quality of life for individuals and communities. The KEHA provides an integral volunteer base for Extension and members reported more than 252,000 volunteer hours in support of Extension-sponsored activities.