Making Beneficial Lifestyle Choices in Clinton County

Clinton County is challenged with diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and poor dietary and exercise habits. To address these negative health issues, Clinton County Extension Service partnered with the local Health Coalition and community agencies to offer Big Blue Shape Up. Seventy-seven participants, ages 12-73, enrolled in the 10-week program, which covered topics such as basic nutrition, weight loss myths, the importance of calcium, the relationship between emotional health and weight management, and portion control. Weekly physical activity ranging from walking, chair yoga, zumba, and low-impact aerobics helped 65 participants lose a collective 443 pounds! Evaluations indicate that 56 participants felt they gained strategies for handling weight effectively, and 36 are eating more fruits and vegetables.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Clinton county please click the link.

Promoting Healthy Homes and Communities in Clay County

In Kentucky, women’s health ranks low compared to other states. Clay County Family & Consumer Science Cooperative Extension along with co-sponsors Memorial Hospital, Eastern Kentucky University and Clay County Public Library offered 35 women and pregnant teens an opportunity to increase self-confidence and learn about nutrition and money management at a program called “New Year, New You.” The program offered free haircuts, makeovers, jewelry-making, decorating from nature’s treasures, women’s health, budgeting, and an inspirational luncheon speech from Anne Shelby. In addition to sponsorship, four presenters volunteered time and a restaurant provided lunch. Fifty percent enjoyed having their hair and makeup done; “I loved the treat, it made me look and feel wonderful.”

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Clay county please click the link.

Making Beneficial Lifestyle Choices in Clark County

Clark County Cooperative Extension continues to fight obesity. Taught by the FCS Agent over eight weeks, “Weight: The Reality Series” enrolled 21 participants. Sessions included information on grains, five a day, dairy, and proteins; and participants weighed in each week. Ninety percent reported that they are more effective in managing their weight; 100% monitor weight; 60% include physical activity as part of their daily routine. 80% now consume more fruits and vegetables on a regular basis; 90% select and eat low-fat or non-fat dairy products; and 100% have developed a supportive environment for healthy weight management. Collectively, 97 pounds have been lost, and a monthly support group has formed to keep weight-loss morale up.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Clark county please click the link.

Securing Financial Stability in Christian County

With current economic conditions, money management was identified as a significant need of women in Western Kentucky. This determination gave rise to the yearly seminar “Money Sense for Women,” which brought together the expertise of the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent and community partners such as local financial institutions and women’s organizations. The free seminar has taught local women credit and savings basics, avoiding identity theft, and skills for dealing with financial crisis. A survey of participants revealed that 87% had gained knowledge that would spur them to change their financial practices. Five months later 60% of the participants reported that they had improved their financial situation based upon skills they gained at the seminar.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Christian county please click the link.

Making Beneficial Lifestyle Choices in Casey County

To combat deficiencies in literacy, health, and welfare, Literacy, Eating, and Activity for Preschoolers (LEAP) program was offered in Head Start, with fourteen participants. Parents report reading more frequently to children and making positive nutrition changes; teachers report preschoolers were trying healthier foods. In conjunction with Commodities Day, which distributes food to about 300 families, Family and Consumer Sciences provided nutrition education. Participants report trying recipes, budgeting, meal planning, and healthier eating. FCS Agent and partners provided a weight-loss program in which six parent-child teams and one individual participated. The top individual lost 122 pounds; the teams lost 414.3 pounds. Also, Weight: the Reality Series was taught twice, with fifteen people losing over 5% of body weight.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Casey county please click the link.

Accessing Nutritious Food in Carter County

What child doesn’t need more fruits, vegetables, and exercise? To fill that need, Carter County Extension Family and Consumer Science Agent and community education partners offered the UK program LEAP (Literacy, Eating, and Activity for Primary). The FCS Agent presented lessons with a story promoting nutrition, an activity to reinforce the material, and a taste-test of a new food. Accompanying newsletters were sent home to parents. Based on observation, around 90% of students pre-school through first grade tried all of the foods. One ecstatic parent phoned the Agent, saying her son asked for turnips after tasting them in LEAP. Success was measured by observation and formal evaluations from teachers and parents.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Carter county please click the link.

Promoting Healthy Homes and Communities in Carroll County

Kentucky ranks seventh-highest in the nation for adult obesity; Kentucky children have the fourth-highest rate of childhood obesity in the country. The Centers for Disease Control reports that Kentucky leads the nation with 28.4% inactive adults, compared to 16% nationally. To address the need for safe physical activity, Extension joined counties across the state for Second Sunday. To stimulate fun, easy physical activity, streets were closed for a one-mile walk and four hours of activities, including jumping rope, hula hoops, sack races, yoga, zumba, karate, and competitions. The FCS Agent coordinated the effort with community partners and volunteers. As a result of the program, local residents continue to challenge the community to be active throughout the year.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Carroll county please click the link.

Accessing Nutritious Food in Carlisle County

A study of Kentucky Supplemental Nutrition Assistance recipients revealed a diet low in grains, meats, vegetables, fruits, and dairy. To address this need in Carlisle County the Nutrition Education Program paraprofessional taught 49 limited-resource families how to serve nutritious meals, keep foods safe, and use local food resources effectively. Ninety-five percent improved the nutritional quality of their diet by planning meals using the food guide pyramid, considering healthy choices, and reading Nutrition Facts. Thirty-eight percent increased physical activity; 25% began feeding their children breakfast. Thirty-three percent demonstrated improved food handling and hand washing practices; 28% planned meals, followed a grocery list, and compared prices. Twelve percent fewer families could not afford to eat properly, and fewer ate meals away from home.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Carlisle county please click the link.

Embracing Life as You Age in Campbell County

More than one-third of adults ages 65 years and older fall each year, making fear of falling a real concern for the aging adult. To address this issue, Campbell County Cooperative Extension Service offered an eight- week program, “The Matter of Balance,” which focused on reducing fear, increasing activity, and prevention strategies such as action plans, home hazard checklists, assessing risk-taking behaviors, exercise training, and practical problem-solving. After the program, 100% of the 18 participants felt more comfortable talking with others about their fear of falling, and 100% felt more comfortable increasing their activity. One participant said “My thinking has changed. I believe that exercising can help prevent a fall.”

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Campbell county please click the link.

Nurturing Families in Calloway County

Requests resulted in a beginning sewing class taught by the Calloway County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent from August to April. Eleven volunteers followed 4-H guidelines to teach an overwhelming 96 participants, an increase from last year’s 55. Children were taught repair techniques, to use a sewing machine and serger, and to launder properly. Final garments were completed for judging and the 4-H Fashion Revue. Of the 90 participants, about 30 completed the first half of the program; 2 were male; 25 completed a garment; 15 became new 4-H members; 17 participated in the Fashion Revue; and 9 participated in the Fashion Revue for the first time. Community members donated over $4,000 of sewing supplies.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Calloway county please click the link.

Securing Financial Security in Caldwell County

With the current economy, many people need to make their money go further. Job loss and unemployment are concerns for many Caldwell County families, and creating a budget can help lessen those worries through use of careful planning. The 4-H Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, local financial institutions, and Family Resource Center presented “Dollars and Sense” to encourage greater dialogue about personal finances. This program gave low-income individuals the opportunity to ask financial representatives about their money, learn basic budgeting skills, how to be a savvy shopper, and how to keep a checkbook. Ninety-six percent of participants reported their knowledge of money management had increased after completing the program.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Caldwell county please click the link.

Securing Financial Stability in Butler County

Mammoth Cave Area Extension Agents, with multiple community partners, developed a family-budgeting program called Add Up the Savings to further fiscal and physical health. In January 338 learned to save money and calories while eating out, with evaluations showing that 100% made better nutritional choices and saved money. In February and March, 94% of 344 gardeners had increased knowledge and 95% said they would use the information to raise a garden this season. In April 43 food shoppers had a 100% increase in knowledge about grocery-store savings. In May, over 100 people learned to prepare more meals at home and maintain freezer and pantry items to prepare simple, quick meals.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Butler county please click on the link.

Empowering Community Leaders in Bullitt County

Four years ago, the Family & Consumer Science Extension Agent was asked by a local policymaker to help pursue Main Street certification from the Kentucky Heritage Council. Over 130 individuals, 10 groups, 9 businesses, and all 9 City Councilmen supported the effort. With the FCS Agent, six volunteers held 36 meetings, attended seven state Main Street trainings or conferences, and conducted 13 events. Over 40 citizens served on subcommittees and the Main Street Board. The City Council and Mayor hired a Main Street Manager, allocating $50,000 to the position. Committee members have donated over 7,000 hours valued at $141,750. Because of this high-visibility Extension programming, the city was awarded $205,000 for funding sidewalks and beautification.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Bullitt county please click on the link.

Accessing Nutritious Food in Breckinridge County

Is cooking for one or two really worth the effort? Fifteen percent of the population in Breckinridge County is aged 62 and older, and many families consist of a single elderly person, couples just starting out, or single parents with a child. “Cooking for One or Two,” taught by the Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent, addressed this issue by encouraging the fourteen participants to prepare meals at home regardless of how many were sitting down for dinner. The lesson covered the benefits of cooking at home and for smaller numbers, including the opportunity to try new recipes; adapting meals to satisfy individual preferences; adjusting quantities; and freezing, organizing, and planning meals.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Breckinridge county please click the link.

Promoting Healthy Homes and Communities in Breathitt County

Because Breathitt County has impaired waterways, advisory groups frequently list water-quality and solid-waste issues as top priorities. The Kentucky River Authority provided a grant to Breathitt County Cooperative Extension Service to conduct teacher training on watershed quality issues. With 127 students, the 4-H After School program covered watershed quality issues and conducted field trips to monitor a local stream. Students were interested in related art projects, resulting in a public art show themed around water quality. Student docents guided guests through the exhibit of watercolor paintings, pencil drawings, photography, and three-dimensional trash sculptures. Continuing this focus on water, an Earth Day after-school program educated thirty-five students on the water cycle and ground water.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Breathitt county please click the link.

Nurturing Families in Bracken County

In today’s declining economy both parents in many households work to make ends meet, limiting time for family meals. However, research shows that eating together keeps doors to communication open, provides time to reconnect, and shows kids that they are a priority. To emphasize the important role of family meals, Bracken County Family and Consumer Science Agent, with local Family Resource & Youth Service Centers began monthly Family Time sessions that focused on nutrition, child abuse, internet safety, and quality family time, with emphasis on family meals and spending quality family time together. On average 15 families participated. Of the participants 80% reported an increase in sharing family meals and 50% have increased their weekly family activity time.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Bracken county please click the link.

Making Beneficial Lifestyle Choices in Boyle County

Childhood obesity, linked to diseases such as diabetes, is a preventable problem. To teach children early in life the benefits of healthy eating, nutrition habits, and physical activity, Boyle County Extension taught Exploring MyPyramid with Professor Popcorn. Of the 800 grade-schoolers, over half learned that hands should be washed after sneezing, after using the bathroom, and before eating. Additionally, 375 participants identified two or more examples from each of the food groups. 150 eat different kinds of vegetables and 180 eat different kinds of fruits most days of the week. 150 report eating whole grains most days. 225 almost always wash their hands before they eat; 150 are more physically active.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Boyle county please click on the link.

Empowering Community Leaders in Boyd County

In collaboration with Ashland Independent School System, Ashland Human Rights Commission, the State Human Rights Committee, and the local Ministerial Association, the Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Program celebrated 100 years of civil rights, with over 200 people attending the event. State Representative Rocky Adkins was master of ceremonies; guest speakers included the State Human Rights Commissioner and a State Human Rights Board Member. Directors of United Way, Ashland Chamber of Commerce, and Ashland Community & Technical College attended. The Centennial highlights the focus of Boyd County Cooperative Extension efforts to promote educational opportunities for diverse audiences. Successful programs include Spanish and English language programs, housing, and a Cultural Diversity Fair.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Boyd county please click the link.

Promoting Healthy Homes and Communities in Bourbon County

A Wellness Coalition, led by Bourbon County Extension and community partners, sought significant funding to foster health and wellness. A $30,000 grant was awarded to promote community gardens, smoking cessation, nutrition in schools, and built-environment (trails and skateboard) parks. A $60,000 grant was awarded to further policy change in those areas. In addition, Get Fit Bourbon County enrolled 25 people, with the goal of fostering behaviors that could lead to weight loss. Of the 17 people completing it, 100% stated they were exercising and/or walking more; they were better informed about healthier eating; they were more likely to make better lifestyle choices concerning health; and they had an increased understanding of how stress affects health.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Bourbon county please click the link.

Empowering Community Leaders in Boone County

Census statistics indicate that more people from around the world are making Northern Kentucky home. In an effort to bridge cultures, Boone County Cooperative Extension Service started Tuesday Supper Club that met monthly at independent ethnic restaurants. A written evaluation completed five months after the start of the program demonstrated that all (100%) had met people they did not know prior to the club. Seventy-three percent indicated they had improved their ability to interact with others during a meal, and 74% had tried new foods. Sixty-seven percent were more aware of the importance of small business and improved their knowledge of the cultures in the region.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Boone county please click on the link.

Making Beneficial Lifestyle Choices in Bell County

By using LEAP curriculum, the Extension Office, with Family Resource Centers and several school teachers, reached 400 students in pre-school through second grade with critical educational information. The FCS Agent and FSNEP assistants visited six schools, reading stories that encouraged physical fitness, proper oral health, correct hand washing, and healthy eating. Children listened and participated in hands-on activity relating to the book. All students gained knowledge on hand washing and tooth brushing. Teachers reported that 85% of the children aspired to incorporate more physical activity in their school day. One teacher stated, “My class loves to dance and get moving because of your story and the zumba dance that you did with them.”

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Bell county please click the link.

Making Beneficial Lifestyle Choices in Bath County

To help people learn how to lose weight safely and keep it off, Bath County offered the 6-week series “Be a Loser.” Thirty-three people participated in one or more classes, learning how to begin healthy weight loss, to eat healthier, and to incorporate more physical activity into their lifestyles. Fifty percent tracked their food intake in a provided notebook; half of those reported correcting bad food habits such as eating late at night or snacking too often; 75% reported using better portion control; 87% reported increased consumption of fruits and vegetables; and 50% reported eating breakfast more often. Six participants formed a walking group when classes ended to continue their physical activity.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Bath county please click the link.

Promoting Healthy Homes and Communities in Barren County

Due to ever increasing rates of overweight and obesity in youth and adults, the Barren County Nutrition Coalition under the direction of the Barren County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences, presented the Second Sunday program. On Second Sunday in October, community citizens participated in walking and activities such as cardio and stretching, timberwalking, hula hoop, and an obstacle course at Beaver Trail Park to highlight the importance of physical activity in our daily lives. The goal of the day was to walk a combined 117 miles to signify the distance around the perimeter of Barren County. The goal was surpassed with a record of 147 miles walked during the event.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Barren county please click on the link.

Accessing Nutritious Food in Ballard County

Ballard County is plagued with high rates of diabetes, obesity, childhood obesity, and other nutrition and physical activity related disorders. Ballard County Cooperative Extension Service teamed with Ballard County Elementary School to target second grades for a Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) Extravaganza. SNAP-Ed is targeted to Food Benefit Program recipients to help them make healthier choices on a limited budget and choose a more active lifestyle. Ninety-eight students participated in a 5-day training program, which followed food from the farmer’s field to the dinner plate. Agents presented lessons on the food pyramid, and importance of being physically active. In a post survey 90% of the students made healthier food choices and increased physical activity.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Ballard county please click on the link.

Making Beneficial Lifestyle Choices in Anderson County

Obesity and inactivity rates are at all-time highs in the U.S., and the obesity rate in Kentucky is one of the highest in the nation (CDC). To address these issues in our community, the Anderson County Cooperative Extension Service with local sponsors implemented Second Sunday. This program emphasizes physical activity by closing a neighborhood street to traffic and opening the street to local residents. The event takes place the second Sunday in October across the Commonwealth. Anderson County residents celebrated by walking, riding bikes, and other activities on Main Street. One hundred and five participants enjoyed the physical activity break with no traffic during the event.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Anderson county please click the link.

Promoting Healthy Homes and Communities in Allen County

Since 1980, obesity rates have doubled in adults and tripled in children, with health risks comparable to aging twenty years. Because of local need, a Second Sunday coalition planned, developed, and constructed trail infrastructure within city limits. Second Sunday drew 200 youth and adults to Dumont Hill Park for a preview of the nature trail, exploring it for a scavenger hunt after an official opening by the cross-country team. Participants also walked two half-mile trails, where living history stations manned by students, Homemakers, and Civil War re-enactors taught Civil War heritage, including mock cannon shooting. Comments included: “I didn't know that we had this great trail and property right in downtown!”

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Allen county please click the link.

Accessing Nutritious Food in Adair County

Tightened budgets have resulted in increased gardening, canning, freezing, and other methods of long-term storage. Family and Consumer Sciences Agents conducted a workshop to teach the value and safety of food preservation. Freezing, drying, water-bath and pressure-canning techniques were taught in two half-day sessions. Eighty percent of participants stated that they were confident that they could repeat the skills learned in the workshops. After the sessions last season, 15 of the 23 participants returned evaluation forms reporting safely canning 415 quarts of produce and freezing 165 quarts. By popular demand two more sessions were taught in the summer of 2010, reaching twenty novice or first time food preservationists.

To see the entire Building Strong Families county profile for Adair county please click the link.

Building Strong Families in Kentucky

During 2009 – 2010, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension collected detailed impact data for three specific programs. The following outcomes were documented through these programs.

- 40% of participants in “Weight – the Reality Series – Body Image” succeeded in losing 5% of their initial weight during the program.

- 78% of children who participated in “LEAP – Litera¬cy, Eating, and Activity for Preschool” increased their level of physical activity.

- 25% of participants in “Small Steps to Health and Wealth” decreased their expenses as a result of the program.

Please click on the link for a the entire Kentucky profile