Creating opportunities for young people to interact with the natural world in innovative and educational ways sets Kentucky 4-H apart as an organization dedicated to fostering positive youth development. It is crucial to introduce young minds to unfamiliar environments and species to expand their horizons. Additionally, any opportunity for developing life skills or soft skills among young audiences allows 4-H to contribute to shaping the next generation of responsible citizens.

With these objectives in mind, Areas C1-C4 organized the 4-H Jekyll Island Spring Break Trip. This exciting adventure brought together 81 middle school students from 15 counties.  Estill County had one youth participate accompanied by the agent.  Participants attended an educational day before the trip and then journeyed to the 4-H Center at Jekyll Island in Georgia. During their stay, the young explorers engaged in classes centered around the unique natural environment, with a particular focus on the local marine ecosystems. They had the chance to observe rare plants and animals, learn about tidal forces reshaping the beach, and experience hands-on activities in the ocean.

The trip also provided an opportunity for the participants to develop interpersonal skills through group living situations at a camp facility and hotel, manage their own belongings, and bond over an extended travel experience. Upon their return, 24 students completed a brief survey. Every respondent said they had fun, learned something new, were interested in future 4-H trips, and wanted to explore more about the natural environment. An impressive 95% of respondents reported getting to know someone new from another county and trying out a new activity.

One enthusiastic 4-H'er shared, "The trip was awesome sauce!!! I made a lot of new friends, learned that teamwork pays off, saw critters up close, and learned about beach ecosystems." Another participant commented, "All of it was great. I had the best time and learned a lot about sea life. Best experience..."