There are many benefits to joining a club. Clubs provide a sense of community and belonging. They offer opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and network. Clubs can also help you develop new skills and interests, and provide support and encouragement according to an article in Lifestyle Magazine.  The Barren County 4-H Council wanted to provide a different opportunity to get parents and youth reconnected with the 4-H program.

The 4-H Kick-Off Carnival was a great way to connect with parents, students and the community. Flyers, explaining about 4-H Clubs, time and location of the event were sent to all youth in Kindergarten through 8^th grade. Electronic billboards were used for the first time to advertise. Notices were sent to the newspaper, radio stations, cable TV stations, school announcements and social media.

The 500 people lined up from the front door to the street to visit each of the sixteen 4-H booths representing community, county and project 4-H clubs and programs. They registered to get additional information about the 4-H club meetings. The attendees also had a 4-H Carnival pass to get signed at each booth that made them eligible for door prizes and refreshments. When the clubs met letters were sent to everyone who requested information and  the response was overwhelming as over 300 new members enrolled in clubs, programs and camp. 

In addition to new 4-H members, the 4-H Kick-Off Carnival has provided new 4-H volunteers, leaders, judges and marketing for the Barren County 4-H Program.  Plans are underway for the 2023 4-H Kick-Off Carnival!!!