By: Rebecca Konopka
Carter County Extension Agent
Across the Bluegrass, health is more than just a personal matter—it’s something we often experience together as a community. That’s the heart of the One Health Initiative, a statewide effort led by the University of Kentucky and supported by The Bill Gatton Foundation. Its mission is to highlight the vital connections between the health of people, animals and the environment.
Kentucky One Health Week 2026—observed Nov. 1 through Nov. 7—brings this mission to life with the theme, “Connected by Health. United for Kentucky.” Whether it’s clean water, safe food or strong communities, our well-being is deeply tied to the world around us.
Your Carter County Extension Service plays a key role in this initiative. Extension serves as the link between university research and everyday life. We’re not just sharing information—we’re helping Kentuckians turn knowledge into action. Through local events and practical information on nutrition, agriculture and environmental care, Extension helps build healthier habits across the Commonwealth.
During One Health Week, you may come across social media posts highlighting tick-borne disease, sustainability and animal care. You might also hear radio messages encouraging you to prioritize health. These reminders reflect how individual choices can strengthen families and communities.
One Health is more than a call to personal action—it’s a collaborative solution to complex challenges. By connecting people, animals and the environment, the initiative is laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient Kentucky.
Backed by UK’s 16 colleges, hundreds of academic programs and a network of community partnerships, the UK Cooperative Extension Service is helping build a healthier future together.
To learn more about One Health or get involved in One Health Week, contact your Carter County Extension office, or visit https://onehealth.mgcafe.uky.edu. Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expressions, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, or physical or mental disability.
