Civic engagement helps create and cultivate vibrant communities.  Studies have shown social capital is necessary for effective government and economic development.  Part of social capital is engaging in the legislative process, serving on local boards/council, and contributing in topics important to the community.

Overall in the US, social capital has been on the decline.  Currently, Kentucky ranks 48^th in civic health.  In response to the need to increase civic engagement, the Mammoth Cave Area Cooperative Extension Service created an “Empowering Local Leaders” program.  This program was shared with the agents of District 3 in September 2017.  The program was then delivered to the Carroll County Extension Council in October 2017.  Extension Agents taught council members the basics of the state and federal legislative process.  Agents also encouraged connecting with their elected officials on issues that are important to them and outlined a step by step process to communicate effectively with them.

A post-test was given to all participants.  After the presentation, 75% increased their knowledge of the legislative process.  After the program, 100% indicated they felt more prepared to contact an elected official about an issue that concerned them.  Due to the program, 37.5% are likely to contact an elected official in the next six months on topics that concern them or their community.  This final response may be an indication that the Extension Agents need to create opportunities for elected officials to meet face-to-face with our leaders.  In fact, one council member suggested that we bring back the Legislative Appreciation Breakfast we held a few years ago.

A follow-up on this program will take place at the County Extension Council meeting in 2019.