Camp numbers have not met expectations within our county in the past, but have been on the rise in the last couple of years.

The Hardin County 4-H program continues to believe that the camp experience has several positive impacts for youth ages 9-14 including personal growth, eliminating screen time and fostering independence and leadership while creating opportunities for mentorship and positive role modeling from teens and adults. We have witnessed first hand a number of youth overcome obstacles while at camp and can see personal growth in just a few days that will have long term positive impacts especially in areas of social-emotional development and leadership.

The previous year our camping program broke attendance records for the county.  In 2023, our numbers increased 57% and broke attendance records again.  This was made possible by keeping the cost of camp down for families due to the contribution from our county District Board, numerous donations to allow for scholarships and the year round promotion for camp in our school clubs. All of our available beds were filled before our camping date. 

The 4-H Council also agreed to cover the cost of one child to attend camp for any adult chaperone that agreed and was approved to attend.  This greatly helped our recruitment efforts for volunteers.

Based on the results of camping numbers from last year's efforts Extension staff continiued to implement a number of efforts to increase awareness of the camping program and available scholarships to offset the cost for lower-income families.  Various forms of media were used to market camp including the local broadcast network, local radio stations and social media promotions including newsletters and flyers.  The 4-H agent enlisted the help of staff and volunteers to put on the second annual 4-H Summer Camp Block Party in the county to kick off the beginning of summer break.  The block party included activities and games that campers might experience at camp in a scaled down version including, outdoor games, relay races, crafts, and a light meal.  More than 60 youth along with 30 adults/parents attended the event. The event was made possible with the help of eight adult volunteers and six teen volunteers, all of whom agreed to attend camp as teen counselors or CITs.  

School clubs have played a key role in recruitment for camp and expanding our reach into norhtern communities has allowed us to reach campers that may have not previuosly attended including those from minority communities and low income families.