Jim Phelps was the first-born of 12 children, born to hard-working parents, in the Kentucky’s Appalachian region. He attended Berea College during a time when hard-working students could earn their tuition by working their way through school. Majoring in Agricultural Science, he decided to return to the Appalachian Region and make a difference on the lives of youth whose backgrounds were similar to his own.
Jim never married; during his 40 year career, all of which was spent in Knott County, his 4-H members became his children. He truly devoted his life to improving the lives of 4-H members in Knott County.
Jim worked with the Carr Creek Fish and Game Club and the 4-H Shooting Sports Club to combine leadership efforts in hosting training sessions for range officers. The 128 participants included 4-H competitors, coaches, and parents. A total of 206 students graduated from the Knott County Hunter Education Association Workshop.
Jim also reached hundreds of youth from Knott County with intense programs and activities in geology, earthquake preparedness, photography, bicycle safety, aeronautical training, and the importance of water in maintaining a healthy body. He also coordinated programs on Antarctic exploration, space and forestry education.
Jim immersed himself into the community, volunteering at the Hindman Settlement School where he had been a member since 1973, serving as the Lifeline Chair. He also worked with the Gingerbread Festival, Hindman Settlement School’s Family Folk Week, guiding participants on an 80-minute flora and fauna program on the Martha Burns Nature Trail. Jim was also a sound technician for local churches.
