There is an increased need for youth to develop cooperation, communication, leadership, and social skills in an environment where they are able to be independent. Camp creates this environment for these skills to develop.

To address this need Pulaski County spent several months preparing and advertising for camp to get as many youth involved as possible. Once at camp, youth were able to participate in classes and activities that allowed them to thrive and gain these skills with positive spark champions present to help guide youth throughout the week.

We had several local businesses, organizations, and individuals that donated money to lower the cost for each camper. These partners include Pulaski County District Board, Pulaski County 4-H Council, Kentucky Extension Master Gardener’s, Pulaski County Farm Bureau, AM Vets Post 125, Team Modern, United Cumberland Bank, Lloyd Moore, Brandon Hale, Jeff Hughes, Gosser’s Welding and Equipment Repair LLC, Somerset Tree Services & Trimming LLC, Just Among Friends Homemakers, Roundabout Homemakers, Lakeside Auto Sales, Danny Johnson Farms, E&B Feeders, Tommy Clark Farms, and Happy Valley Livestock.

Pulaski County brought 73 youth, 12 teen counselors, and 6 adult counselors as well as both County 4-H Extension agents. Of the 73 youth, 48 were female campers and 25 male campers.

Initial outcomes include campers learning new skills in various activities/classes such as rifles, archery, swimming, water safety, crafts, etc… They also met other campers from different parts of the state and gained knowledge of other cultures and communities.

For intermediate outcomes, some students chose to enroll in additional 4-H activities because of their time at camp. For example, the shooting sports activities at camp encourage youth to go back to their communities looking to enroll in 4-H shooting sports next season. Most of our camp activities can be connected back to programs within our community, such as swim teams, outdoor adventure club, and art day camps to name a few.

Potential long-term outcomes would include campers growing up to use these skills in future careers and becoming teen and adult counselors, giving back to camp. Also, the time spent at 4-H Camp having a lasting impact will encourage future camp attendance for generations to come.