The responsibility for raising a well-educated and civic-minded generation of children cannot rest solely with schools. The Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA) is a volunteer organization that works to improve the quality of life for families and communities through leadership development, volunteer service, and education. In Marshall County, KEHA members make a difference by teaching second-graders the importance of good manners, hand-written thank you notes, and honoring our veterans by sending hand-made patriotic-themed cards. 

One Friday each month, Extension Homemaker members meet with students to talk about examples of good and bad manners. The adult volunteers realize that in the hustle and bustle of today's families raising children, there isn't always time to teach etiquette. Allowing students to discuss these examples leads to a healthy discussion of the importance of saying, "please", "thank you" and "excuse me". Most students may never know who Emily Post or Emily Vanderbilt are or their place in history, but they will likely remember the volunteer who came to their classroom and focused on having these types of discussions.

In this digital age where most communication is done by e-mail or text message, Extension Homemakers take time to discuss the importance of handwritten notes. They discuss how sending notes in our own handwriting is very meaningful to the receiver. They spend time trying various pens and pencils on different types of paper, and how in only five to ten minutes, they have composed a keepsake that someone will cherish. Handwritten notes to friends and loved ones are intimate and personal in a way that email and typewritten text cannot fully convey.  

Extension Homemakers have a special place in their hearts for men and women who have served in the military. They enjoy sharing red, white & blue papers, pens, and markers with students who turn these simple elements into cards that bring smiles to those who played such an important part in the history of our Country. Including handwritten notes inside the handmade cards adds an extra special touch that will be very meaningful to these Veterans. 

KEHA members in Marshall County have established positive relationships and teachable moments that will impact the lives of these young students and others for many years to come.