Success StoryCommunity Collaboration Advances Eastern Kentucky



Community Collaboration Advances Eastern Kentucky

Author: Shad Baker

Planning Unit: Letcher County CES

Major Program: Community Strategic Planning

Plan of Work: Healthy People, Healthy Economy

Outcome: Long-Term Outcome

The challenge of transitioning the economy and resources of Eastern Kentucky to a sustainable and vibrant scene; one that accentuates the abundant natural resources and the creativity and work-ethic of a people rooted in the rugged mountains is worthy of the state's land-grant and outreach arm, the UK Cooperative Extension Service. In partnership with local business, healthcare, education and political leaders, the Letcher County Extension Service has sought to more fully capture the potential. The group, known as the East Kentucky Heritage Foundation has specifically targeted tourism development through hiking, horse and bicycle trails, road-side amenities to attract travelers to select venues, and the creation of a world-class shooting facility on a former mine sight. So far, $3.5 million in grant funding has been secured for the facility, the former rail-line through Whitesburg has begun the conversion to a bike and walking trail, and overlooks along Pine Mountain have been enhanced through multiple local donations. Extension was specifically sought out for our community engagement and well-known trail development background. When we all collectively push in the same direction, great things happen.






Stories by Shad Baker


Community Collaboration Advances Eastern Kentucky

about 4 years ago by Shad Baker

The challenge of transitioning the economy and resources of Eastern Kentucky to a sustainable and vi... Read More


Even in a Pandemic, Extension Keeps Serving Kentucky

about 4 years ago by Shad Baker

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many changes and stresses for the people of Kentucky and the nation... Read More


Stories by Letcher County CES


Kentucky Volunteer Forum

about 4 years ago by Crystal Smith

4-H youth development programs depend adult volunteers to promote, provide extension, and run extens... Read More


FitBlue Walking Program

about 4 years ago by Nanette Banks

According to the Centers for Disease Control, “physical activity such as walking can help improve he... Read More


Stories by Community Strategic Planning


Community Branding - Explore Cumberland County

Community Branding - Explore Cumberland County

about 4 years ago by Elijah Wilson

As part of an on-going community strategic planning initiative focused on communication and collabor... Read More


Ripple Effect Mapping & Other Story-Based Methodologies to  Energize Volunteer Groups and Jump Start Participatory Planning: The Case of the Green River Area Extension Master Gardener Association

Ripple Effect Mapping & Other Story-Based Methodologies to Energize Volunteer Groups and Jump Start Participatory Planning: The Case of the Green River Area Extension Master Gardener Association

about 4 years ago by Nicole Breazeale

In August of 2019, CLD Extension faculty member, Dr. Nicole Breazeale, met with Horticulture Agent, ... Read More