Cooperative Extension at Kentucky State University offers heirs’ property education as part of its broader work to serve families and communities across the Commonwealth

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky families working to protect land, preserve family assets, and plan for future generations are receiving support through one of many community-focused programs offered by Cooperative Extension at Kentucky State University.

Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension’s Community Resource Development team is expanding its heirs’ property and will clinic initiative, supported by a $12,000 special project award from the Kentucky Bar Foundation. The program helps families understand heirs’ property challenges, address unclear title and fractional ownership, and use estate planning as a tool for land retention and generational wealth.

The initiative is led by Casey H. Townsend III, State Specialist for Land Retention and Wealth Development and Realtor. Townsend provides program oversight, delivers educational sessions, and is developing standardized curriculum that trained community members can use to extend the program’s reach.

Virtual will clinics will be supported by Attorney John Borders of Borders & Borders in Louisville, helping families prepare for the future through will preparation and estate planning guidance.

The effort builds on earlier work supported by the Policy and Research Center at Alcorn State University, during which local heirs’ property workshops connected families with volunteer attorneys who helped draft wills.

Approximately 45 Extension personnel from 41 counties have been trained in heirs’ property education, prevention, and resolution. Their outreach has reached more than 352 community members statewide, with more than 244 individuals pursuing wills during or after program participation.

“These outcomes confirm that families across Kentucky want help protecting their land and planning for the future,” Mr. Townsend said. “This initiative connects education with action, ensuring people have both the knowledge and the legal support needed to secure their legacy.”

The program reflects the broader mission of Cooperative Extension at Kentucky State University, which delivers research-based education and practical resources to support families, farms, communities, and local economies across the Commonwealth.

For more information about upcoming heirs’ property workshops or virtual will clinics, contact Mr. Casey Townsend at 502-597-6417 or casey.townsend1@kysu.edu.