Situation:  It is critical for a healthy and sustainable community to have contributing members of society with necessary life skills. Currently in McCracken County there is a need to learn and practice healthy habits, create and live within a budget and form positive relationships with others. 

McCracken County manager asked if the Fall County Extension Council (CEC) meeting could be a luncheon meeting with table decorations of fresh flowers. The addition of tablecloths and fresh flowers arranged through floral design techniques would enhance the atmosphere of the meeting.  Making the meeting room more inviting helped CEC volunteers understand the importance of the meeting and their work in the county. 

Horticulture Agent explained that teaching basic floral design skills in a class at the Extension office would allow for people to learn by doing. The designs created could be borrowed for the CEC luncheon and then used by the participants. Class size was limited to 20 so that enough materials would be in place for the class. Class was advertised in Cooperative Extension Service (CES) newsletters, announcements and fliers. Participants reserved spots on first-come, first-served basis, and in accordance with “All Rights Efforts,” by contacting the office. Class was filled prior to the event.

Horticulture Agent used basic Floral Design classroom skills taken from UK curriculum and past experience in teaching classes. A series of steps to take was explained by demonstration with materials which are easily purchased in retail stores and written directions. After instruction, question and answer time was allowed. When everyone was ready to begin, participants used materials provided to create a single floral design in a small vase. 

Of the participants, 100% stated that they learned something. People learned to take cut flowers and use professional items available at local retail stores to make quality designs. Six participants asked if more classes in Floral Design could be offered at the Extension Service office.  Agent agreed to make more classes related to other holidays in 2019. 

In addition to this class teaching something new to area residents, Class participants and McCracken County Extension Master Gardener volunteers who participated expressed that they benefitted from the floral designs.  Volunteers at the CEC luncheon seemed to appreciate having a more-inviting atmosphere for this enhanced version of the semi-annual CEC meeting schedule.