Kentucky State University (KSU) regularly provides opportunities for students and families to tour the campus.  However, the BREDS Experience is a day dedicated specifically to provide middle and high school students the opportunity to learn about the rich history of the campus, programs offered and experience student life.  Students tour the campus, meet the various departments represented at the University, eat lunch in the cafeteria, attend a game and can even apply for admission.

Lexington is approximately 30 miles from the college campus but can seem miles away for minority youth who have never even heard of Kentucky State University.  Although the historically black land-grant institution once served the Lexington community well, it seeks to re-engage these communities as it competes with other viable institutions in and out of the state.  BREDS Day is one way to connect with youth and provide them with the opportunity to see how KSU can support their academic goals.  

For the Community Health Specialist, it is important to provide a connection for these gifted minds to engage in conversations with other like-minded youth and professionals who can assist them in their decisions to continue their education. The health of individuals, families and communities relies heavily on the ability to gain upward mobility by shifting their socioeconomic status. Education is one way to uplift the status of these youth and challenge them to become leaders in their communities and the world. 

This is significant because these youth benefit from programs and leaders in their community who were exposed to similar opportunities and made a commitment to give back.  As a result, approximately 100 youth from various community partners participated in this year's event.  These community partners represent a variety of organizations in the community which continuously engage youth in meaningful activities and experiences to improve their health outcomes and quality of life.  William Wells Brown Community Center, Charles Young Community Center, Survivors II, OMAC, and the Youth Advocate Program serve some of the most vulnerable youth in Lexington.  Each program is uniquely situated in the community and provides after-school and weekend activities and services to address such issues like violence and bullying.  Youth have the choice to participate in healthy lifestyle classes and physical activities, weekly mentoring sessions, workshops to promote career and academic development, and/or benefit from services to support families.