in order to find their place in the world (Fagell. P.L., 2019). Therefore, it is essential to provide positive experiences in which young people are able to explore the world in a safe environment. Historically, Kentucky 4-H sees a decline in enrollment numbers for middle school age youth. In an effort to retain this age group, the Area C1-C4 Teen Council worked to plan, implement, and evaluate an overnight leadership-focused retreat for middle schoolers (grades 6-8). 

C1-C4 Area Middle School Retreat provides youth the chance to learn about opportunities provided through 4-H, while developing friendships, leadership skills, and communication skills that may benefit them as they explore their strengths and interests.

At the North Central 4-H Camp, the 2022 event hosted 130 middle schoolers and teen leaders, along with 19 adults. Through 4-H programming, middle schoolers had the opportunity to create friendships with their peers and mentorships with older 4-Hers who served as their team leaders and taught their classes. Youth also heard from two Kentucky 4-H State Officers and completed a project to learn about the function of the KY 4-H State Leadership Boards. Of those surveyed: 

1. 90% of middle schoolers reported that they made new friends
2. 81% reported learning a new leadership skill
3. 92% got to know adults/teesn who care about them and are interested in their success
4. 91% report using skills learned in 4-H in other activities at home, school, or in their communities

A major benefit of the C1-C4 Area Middle School Retreat is to instill confidence in middle schoolers to become leaders in their local communities and share their new skills with others. Of the youth surveyed, 86% plan to use information they learned to make future decisions. 

A goal of 4-H Summit is to bridge the 4-H enrollment gap in middle school programs across the state. Of the youth who attended the retreat and completed the survey, 91% reported that they wanted to continue their participation in 4-H and attend future programs and events.