As part of Bloom Kentucky, “sprout outs” are our way of giving a meaningful shout out to programs fostering hope and resilience in our communities. We’re proud to spotlight the incredible work of Ohio County United for Youth.

Ohio County United for Youth is an organization led by young people in partnership with adult volunteers in Ohio County, Kentucky. Their work is guided by the Developmental Assets Framework, which “identifies 40 research-based positive experiences that influence young people’s development, helping them to be caring, responsible, and productive adults”. 

The mission of the organization is to create opportunities for young people to grow and learn about the various developmental assets. From “Asset Fairs” to the annual “Celebrate the Child” event, this group partners with churches and other organizations to create fun learning developmentally appropriate activities for children across age groups and their families. 

Their efforts include:

  • Youth Leadership Training Days where youth learn about leadership
  • National Family Day where families are encouraged to eat dinner together
  • Ohio County Youth Sunday where youth are invited to churches 
  • Christmas Parade where young people decorate and plan a float for the community
  • Veteran Valentine’s Day Cards where young people write V-Day cards to veterans 

Marianne Pieper, a long-time volunteer and Chair of Ohio County United for Youth, shared, 

“What I love about the framework is that everyone can help and everyone has a role in developing the assets of young people…as a community, we have to see young people are our community commitment and fill in when parents are unable to support their children like they want to…” 

Bloom Kentucky celebrates these incredible efforts by community members and young people who are determined to create an environment where every child can unlock their own unique assets. 

Positive youth development opportunities, such as Ohio County United for Youth, should be available to every kid in Kentucky. That’s why Bloom’s 2026 Policy Agenda includes a priority focused on creating mechanisms to direct social media settlement dollars towards positive childhood experiences. By investing settlement dollars in youth wellbeing and connection, Kentucky can boost PCES and support youth development and mental health.

Together, let’s create a Kentucky united for youth!