Summer is not summer without 4-H Camp. However, it is not cheap to attend. The cost for a 4-H member to attend 4-H Camp during the summer of 2022 was $260 and $275 in the summer of 2023.  Many families, especially those with multiple children, are not able to afford the high-quality educational experience. To address the unmet need, 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 for the past two years to provide the maximum allowed contribution towards each 4-H member’s camp fee ($210 per member in 2023). 

     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 in the summer 2022 and 2023 were filled and a waiting list was started.  2022 participation was the highest attendance since 2008. For 2022, seventy-two youth represent approximately 21.4% of all youth ages 9-14 in Cumberland county, the target age for 4-H Camp. 

     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 was to make friends. We know from abundance of research about the science of learning and development that feeling a sense of belonging to a group is an essential for a young person to thrive and is linked to performance in school and mental health. 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”.

     In addition to 4-H Camp, all 4-H programs in Cumberland County are free for youth. Donations are secured to support all youth who want to attend 4-H programs outside of Cumberland County.