Success StoryAccess, Equity, and Belonging



Access, Equity, and Belonging

Author: Elijah Wilson

Planning Unit: Cumberland County CES

Major Program: Camping

Plan of Work: 4-H Leadership Development

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Summer is not summer without 4-H Camp. However, for one 4-H member to attend 4-H Camp in the summer of 2022, the cost is $260 plus transportation. In spring of 2022, the Cumberland County Extension District Board made a commitment to make 4-H Camp affordable for all youth.   The Cumberland County Extension District Board voted to provide the maximum allowed contribution towards each 4-H member’s camp fee ($195 per member). 

The funding decision was made in response to obstacles that have prevented individuals from attending camp, including obstacles from groups who are marginalized because of race, language, economic status and other key factors. As stated by UK President Eli Capilouto, “Addressing access and equity requires commitment. It requires partnership. "(2021). Due to the funding, all camp spots allotted for Cumberland County (72 ) will be occupied for summer camp 2022. Cumberland County attends 4-H Camp July 25 - 29.

As part of the 4-H camp application process, all youth who receive funding are asked to write a narrative about why they want to go to camp. The number one reason cited is to make friends. We know from in abundance of research about the science of learning and development that feeling a sense of belonging to a group is a sensual for a young person to thrive. Making friends is not just fun, it is important for positive development. For many youth, 4-H camp is the highlight of the summer. As stated by one 4-H member “ It is all I really have to look forward to this summer because we live so far out in the country and I don’t get to go to town except to the grocery”.







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