The Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA) held the organization’s 89^th annual State Meeting at the Louisville Crowne Plaza May 9-11, 2023. More than 430 attendees from across the state, including 95 first-time participants, took part in the three-day meeting celebrating the theme “Let’s Take a Hike with KEHA.”

“Several first-time attendees came up to me and told me it was a great meeting, how much fun they had, and what they had learned. They said they would definitely be back next year,” said KEHA President Brenda Hammons. “The classes were full, and I heard wonderful comments from those who attended. Also, many commented about the quantity and quality of the cultural arts displayed.”

This year’s event kicked off with an opening luncheon May 9. The keynote speaker was Jessica Whitehead, curator of collections for the Kentucky Derby Museum. KEHA also celebrated 46 years of support for the UK Ovarian Cancer Research and Screening Program with the presentation of awards. Dr. Edward Pavlik, Ovarian Cancer Screening Research Director, was presented with a check for $40,966.57. KEHA’s lifetime contribution to the program is more than $1.62 million.

During the May 10 general session, the KEHA Choir performed seven songs. One of the songs had lyrics written specifically for this homemaker event, as a tribute to county Family and Consumer Sciences agents. The 32-member choir includes KEHA members from 21 counties and is under the direction of Wendy Hood, current Fort Harrod Area President. This was the sixth year the choir performed as part of the conference.

Three fundraising activities conducted as part of the meeting yielded more than $6,631 to support designated projects. A raffle generated $3,029 to add to the contributions to the UK Ovarian Cancer Research and Screening Program. A silent auction raised $1,670, and 275 handmade quilt squares were displayed and auctioned, providing $1,932. Both will help offset the cost of hosting the state meeting.

This year the homemakers participated in a service project benefitting the Center for Courageous Kids in Scottsville. At least 15 counties donated more than 60 twin-sized bed quilts, many of them handmade. The popular Cultural Arts and Heritage contest included around 700 entries that meeting attendees could view and enjoy.

“What a wonderful KEHA State Meeting it was this year! We laughed, listened to a great choir, admired Cultural Arts items from around the state, bid on silent auction items, promoted lifelong learning through the various sessions, and met old and new friends,” said KEHA 1^st Vice President Henrietta Sheffel. “Don’t miss out – join us next year at the 2024 KEHA State Meeting at the Bowling Green University Plaza and Sloan Convention Center.”

The annual state meeting provides a time for training, networking, recognition, and celebration. Attendees participated in educational seminars addressing topics ranging from potted and edible plants to cooking and healthy eating, and from money management to leadership. Additionally, a series of concurrent workshops provided training in each of KEHA’s eight educational program areas of emphasis. State officers also hosted training workshops for local, county, and area officers who attended. The KEHA State Meeting concluded with an awards luncheon and the installation of newly elected officers.

KEHA is a non-profit membership organization dedicated to education, leadership, and volunteer service. To learn more, like and follow the organization’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/officialKEHA or visit www.keha.org.