Clay County is a small rural county in Eastern Kentucky where racial diversity is low. According to 2016 Census Bureau, Clay County’s population consists of 94.4% white, 2% Hispanic or Latino and 4.2% Black or African American. Therefore, the majority of individuals including youth, do not have a high range of opportunities to be exposed to other diverse cultures and foods. 

     The Clay County 4-H Agent conducted a three-day summer workshop open to all youth in the county that had an interest in exploring diverse cultures through various foods. The International Foods Project curriculum helps youth explore different countries by sampling their food and sharing traditions and customs. The workshops focused on two different countries—Mexico and Italy. Each meeting began with a brief history description of the country and authentic music and decorations were shared. Eighteen participants attended and were involved in cooking multiple foods related to each country’s culture. Youth prepared beef burritos, queso, sampled champurrado (Mexican hot chocolate), while learning basic cooking and measuring skills. For the Italy workshop, youth prepared mini lasagnas, herbed oil and sampled antipasto (Italian appetizers), which included black olives, salami and goat cheese. Many participants admitted that they had never tried or prepared the majority of the food that was offered until the workshop. Youth also gained knowledge on how different cultures obtain nutrients through each food group. 

Evaluation results:

93% reported acquiring a new cooking skills

88% reported trying a new food

96% reported learning something new of various cultures

93% reported feeling more confident in cooking skills

Parent statement:

“My child insisted that we take a trip to the grocery to buy ingredients for the beef burrito. She made dinner all by herself for the entire family.”