There were concerns that during COVID-19 connections with community, volunteers and leadership would decrease and there would be a loss of engagement with FCS Extension programming.  There was also a concern there would be a decrease in Extension Homemaker membership and involvement.  COVID-19 has significantly impacted our ability to meet with community members, volunteers and leadership in person.  The majority of our participants do not utilize virtual/technology based programming.

To reduce the impact of these potential losses, weekly FCS newsletters were mailed, weekly newspaper articles, increase in social media contacts for those who do utilize technology, membership incentives, and educational grab and go kits were provided, as well as many other creative ideas were implemented.

FCS Extension received positive feedback from the community, volunteers and leaders.  Requests to receive FCS Extension newsletters increased from 245 to 321.  A new "In Stitches" newsletter was developed with 177 new recipients. Wayne County Extension Homemakers added 29 new members and has started two new Extension Homemaker Clubs during COVID-19.  Wayne County Extension Homemakers received the award for most new members from KEHA and $300 incentive for local programming.