Cooperative Extension continues to search out new ways to connect the public with valuable information. Families in the Eastern portion of the state are particularly in need of skills related to producing and preparing their own food since many have limited resources or have health conditions related to diet and exercise. The 36 counties that are served by the Robinson Center for Appalachian Resource Sustainability (RCARS, or The Robinson Center) contain most of Kentucky’s counties that rank in the poorest category determined by health outcomes.(www.countyhealthrankings.org, 2019)

RCARS Mission Statement is to “Increase the long-term value added, sustainable income, and sustainable flow of economic, ecological, and social goods and services from the land, natural resources, and people of Eastern Kentucky and the Appalachian Region.” They found a well suited partner when Remake Learning Days Across America, sponsored by the Public Broadcasting System and Kentucky Educational Television, brought their project to Eastern Kentucky. Remake Learning Days Across America (RLDAA) is a celebration of innovative experiences and opportunities for youth to develop their sense of creativity, perseverance and curiosity. These events are designed to be hands-on, relevant and engaging educational experiences for youth of all ages and their families. 

Several of the educational departments housed at RCARS worked together to offer events as part of the Eastern Kentucky April learning week. 4 workshops were offered during evening hours to allow family groups to participate. 

• All About Soils:   Learn the science of soils and conduct your own experiment as you gain a better understanding of where our food comes from and the role of soil in feeding the world.

• Cast Iron Cooking:  Learn how to prepare several recipes outdoors using cast iron pots and Dutch Ovens. Venison Chili and Dutch Oven Pizza are just two of the dishes!

• Cutting Board Workshop:  Create your own beautiful hardwood cutting board made from local Kentucky grown trees. Router, drill, sand and finish your cutting board on site.

• Straw Bale Gardening:  Learn about gardening in small spaces as you plant your own straw bale garden.

58 people registered to attend workshops during RCARS Learning Days. Several were people new to educational opportunities at RCARS or new to Cooperative Extension as a whole.

Quote from teacher who brought agriculture students to the straw bale gardening: “Last night was AWESOME! I am so grateful for you telling me about it. We had a blast! The kids had a blast as well. If there are any more classes coming up please let me know. This was a great opportunity for my kiddos.”

From a youth participant in the cutting board workshop: “There are a lot of invasive bugs that destroy trees in Kentucky and we need to help.”