The single biggest way for Cooperative Extension to have a positive impact in the community is to focus on leadership development.  Taylor County Cooperative Extension has great opportunities for leadership development in youth and adult programs.

During a pandemic year, the Taylor County Extension Homemakers arose to the challenge to provide educational opportunities and fellowship.   COVID-19 caused many people to stay home, sometimes in isolation.  To create awareness of a deadly disease and bring joy to people, they conducted a Flock for a Cure fundraiser to raise money for Ovarian Cancer Research.  The fundraiser made a positive impact on 159 families during desperate times.  Approximately 15 leaders developed guidelines, marketing plans, and general rules for the fundraiser.  Flocking crews of 3-4 delivered 900 teal flamingos to 159 homes raising $4,270!   Homemakers also stepped up to the challenge of making over 800 masks, 370 surgical hats, and 25 bibs for face mask shields for local companies and individuals. In addition, they ran a “Souper Bowl” Food Drive that contributed two truck loads of canned goods and nonperishable food items to two blessing boxes and the local food pantry.  A To-Go Soup Luncheon was held to help fund three $1,000 Homemaker scholarships given annually.

Local homemakers serve in leadership roles on the area and state level as well.  One homemaker serves as first vice president for KEHA, another leader serves as Lake Cumberland Area president, and another leader serves as Lake Cumberland Area treasurer.  One homemaker served on the KEHA Leadership Academy steering committee and another attended the academy and follow-events.  

The Taylor County Cattlemen’s Association has also been active during the pandemic.  They held a Ribeye Sandwich fundraiser for pickup.   They also promoted beef products for several community events in the county including a Juneteenth celebration and a local mission store customer appreciation lunch.  They also administered the CAIP Cost Share program of $126,334 and the YAIP Program of $16,000.

The Taylor County Jr. Cattlemen’s Association has approximately 15 members.  One member serves as vice president of the Kentucky Jr. Cattlemen’s Association and another serves as treasurer.