4-H Camp is a great opportunity for youth to make new friends, build self-confidence, gain independence, strengthen problem-solving skills, and step out of their comfort zone. According to the American Camping Association, the shared experiences of campers contributes to the critical skills that are associated with social-emotional learning, which decreases the rate of depression, anxiety, and lack of connection. 4-H Camp is also one of our greatest recruitment tools, as it serves as a gateway to other 4-H activities, clubs, and projects.

However, the Kentucky 4-H Camping program continues to rise in cost and is not accessible by the low-income youth of Rockcastle County, which make up 36.5% of the total population under 18 years of age (Kentucky: By the Numbers, 2014).

To offset the registration price for 4-H Camp, 4-H Youth Development Agent, Alyssa Cox, sought assistance from the Rockcastle County Extension District Board and other local agencies.  The Extension District Board eagerly agreed to cover the cost of programming, bringing the registration price down to $65.00 per camper. Alyssa also met with Rockcastle County Extension Homemaker Clubs, who actively fundraise for 4-H Camp throughout the year, and she was able to secure 19 camper scholarships. After fundraising, the Rockcastle County 4-H Council was able to offer scholarships to every youth that indicated need. As a result, 24 total campers were able to participate at a reduced price of $20.00.

In a thank you card to one of our donors, one 4-H camper wrote, “Thank you so much for your sponsorship. I have had the best time of my life this week and have made so many new friends. I would not have been able to come without your help. It means the world to me!”