The use of social media and videos has become a very important educational tool, especially throughout the coronavirus pandemic. According to Cisco, the worldwide leader in IT, by 2022, videos will make up 82 percent of internet traffic.

When face-to-face social interaction came to a screeching halt in March 2020, University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Family & Consumer Sciences administrators, specialists, agents and staff turned to video technology to stay connected with stakeholders and clientele all across the Commonwealth. Social media platforms became flooded with information to assist families with research-based information to address concerns about COVID-19, cleaning vs. disinfecting, self-care in recovery, food safety, and how to stay physically active while staying at home. Agents were also offered increased opportunities to participate in online trainings.

In addition, information was shared on timely topics including financial management, mindful eating, mental health, gardening in small spaces, and caring for those with dementia in a pandemic. Assisting those with heightened anxiety levels was also addressed by sharing information about tele-health options, engaging in hobbies, and online book clubs.

Agents assisted families and community groups with learning about virtual meeting opportunities and helping them stay connected by alternative means during times of quarantine. Hundreds of ‘Healthy at Home’ and ‘Brown Bag Programs’ by curbside pickup allowed families to participate in learning opportunities with Extension resources and supporting materials in a non-traditional manner.

Feedback has been very positive related to the efforts to reach out during this trying time. Families in our community have shown appreciation for the alternative methods of learning. A comment from a local gentleman stated, “I have always trusted information from the UK Extension office, now it just looks a little different, but it’s still very reliable.” That about sums it up. Our job is to calm the fears and assist in taking actions to help keep families safe and healthy in whatever form it takes.