Areas of Focus
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Areas of Focus
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension is committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and families resulting in strong families for Kentucky.
To learn more about Family and Consumer Science programs and when they are offered, contact your local Extension office. Every county in Kentucky is supported by agents and support staff ready to help you get connected.
Financial Security and Economic Well-Being
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension helps individuals and families build the knowledge and confidence to make smart financial decisions. Our programs teach essential skills such as creating and following a budget, saving for long-term goals, managing debt, and planning for the future. We also guide families in using their resources wisely to navigate rising costs and financial uncertainty. Beyond personal finance, our programs encourage informed decision-making that supports overall well-being and resilience. By equipping people with these tools, we help strengthen households and contribute to more stable, self-reliant, and economically resilient communities across Kentucky.
View our ProgramsNutrition, Food Safety, Quality, and Access
Kentucky faces serious health and economic challenges, but Family and Consumer Sciences Extension programs are working to address them. These programs help individuals and families learn how to eat healthy, make informed food choices, and safely prepare fresh, affordable meals. They also support local farms by helping farmers grow their businesses and by making it easier for communities to access food grown close to home. Through workshops and hands-on learning, people gain practical skills and knowledge that improve their well-being and strengthen their communities. By promoting healthy lifestyles and local food systems, these programs contribute to a healthier, more resilient Kentucky.
View our ProgramsYouth, Adult, and Family Development
Family and Youth Development programs help both children and adults build stronger, healthier lives. These programs support parents and caregivers by offering guidance on how to foster positive relationships with their children and loved ones. Family and Consumer Sciences Extension also helps individuals feel more connected to their communities, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Caregivers gain tools to prepare children for kindergarten, make informed decisions, and care for themselves and their families. Families are introduced to valuable community resources, and statewide partnerships work together to ensure every home has the support needed to thrive.
View our ProgramsWork and Life Skill Development
In Kentucky, building a strong future starts with dedication to personal and professional growth. When people commit to developing skills, managing responsibilities, and balancing work and family life, they become more resilient and capable. Whether through a job, volunteering, or caring for others, this dedication strengthens the workforce, supports families, and helps communities thrive across the state. Our work through Family and Consumer Sciences help people build important skills they can use in both work and everyday life.
View our ProgramsHealth and Well-being
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension’s work focuses on helping individuals, families, and communities improve health and well-being in Kentucky. We offer programs that help people learn how to make healthy choices every day. These programs teach kids and adults ways to stay safe at work and home, get enough sleep, manage stress, and be active to stay healthy. Our programs connect people with local resources, like health centers and community events. These programs also work with local partners to make sure every community has fair and equal access to health support.
View our ProgramsMental Health and Well-being
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension empower people to care for themselves and support others. Our programs teach how to recognize when someone may need help, how to respond, and how to talk about mental health with kindness and respect. Participants learn healthy coping strategies like practicing self-care, reaching out for support, and building strong connections in their community. These programs also foster partnerships that expand access to mental health care and resources. Together, we’re working to create communities where asking for help is encouraged and everyone feels supported.
View our ProgramsSubstance Use Prevention and Recovery
Adults in recovery need support and support systems for long-term health and well-being. Family and Consumer Sciences Extension recognizes addiction as a chronic health condition. Our work focuses on reducing stigma through education and the use of respectful, positive language. Participants learn practical skills to support their recovery, including managing stress, developing healthy relationships, and staying active. Through strong partnerships with community organizations, we work to make recovery programs more accessible and effective across Kentucky.
View our ProgramsBuilding Leadership Capacity
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension programs empower individuals with practical skills that foster confidence, leadership, and community engagement. Through hands-on learning, participants gain tools to strengthen their local economies, support meaningful community initiatives, and enhance the quality of life in their county and our state. Many go on to serve as dedicated volunteers, contributing their time and talents to boards and civic groups—helping build vibrant, resilient communities across the Commonwealth.
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