After two years of limited in-person interaction the desire was high for interactive, hands-on programing for youth. While the impact of social isolation on youth is still being studied, many teachers have expressed concerns about delayed social development. In an effort to be proactive, the Washington County 4-H Advisory Council requested a series of day camps through the 2022 program year. The first in effort was titled Handmade Holli-Day-Camp and focused on crafts to celebrate the Holiday season.

Three teen leaders, a Master Clothing Volunteer, and the county 4-H Youth Development agent worked to provide a full day of programming to a full class of ten youth aged 8-11 years old. They made ornaments from oven-baked clay, baked snickerdoodle cookies, and made their own kitchen aprons. For 40% of participants this would be their first experience at the Washington County Extension Office.

Many youth expressed they received new experiences as a result of the program. 70% of youth reported learning a skill they hadn’t possessed before. 80% of participants reported making new friends.