Research has proven that youth benefit from positive relationships with caring adults. According to the Interagency Working Group on Youth Programs, youth who have mentors typically have "increased high school graduation rates, lower high school dropout rates, and healthier relationships and lifestyle choices". 4-H Camp provides campers aged 8-15 such opportunities to be mentored and nurtured by caring cabin leaders, class instructors, teen volunteers, and camp staff members in hopes that these positive experiences will lead to better life outcomes. 

Graves County took 100 youth, 14 adult counselors, 3 teen counselors, and 1 agent to West Kentucky 4-H Camp in Dawson Springs this summer for a total of 118 people, breaking the all-time county camp attendance record. The last highest recorded attendance was in 96 people in 1999. Campers were able to participate in flag service, free recreation, swim time, camp dances, nature hikes, reflections, and several exciting classes, including ropes, horse, archery, rifle, canoeing, fishing, and more. 

Of the campers that attended, 100% received financial assistance toward the camp fee by the Graves County Extension District Board, who paid $125 toward every camper's fee. Scholarships were provided for those who needed further assistance by First Kentucky Bank, the Graves County 4-H Council, Wingo Family Resource Center, Symsonia Family Resource Center, Mayfield Migrant Education Program, and many tornado relief donations, who partnered together to make this an unforgettable week for the kids. After a very difficult year following COVID-19 and the devastating December 10th tornado, 4-H Camp was a great experience for all who attended.