The middle school period in a child's life comes with many obstacles and changes which include cognitive, physical, social and emotional. This is also a time when youth typically build their resilience with challenges in life such as grades in school, team sports and activities, personal growth and social changes. While navigating life and challenges, it is imperative that youth have a support network which includes family, friends, teachers, 4-H agent and other mentors. 

The Kentucky 4-H Teen Summit is an annual conference for middle school aged youth that offers opportunities for learning and meeting new people within a supportive environment. They attend sessions that can equip youth with leadership abilities while teaching them to lead others in a positive manner. Kentucky 4-H offers two session of Teen Summit, one in western Kentucky and one at Lake Cumberland. 

Bell County had two 4-H members attend the Lake Cumberland conference. One of the attendees attended Teen Summit in the past. The other youth had never spent the night away from home. Teen Summit offered an opportunity for these children to learn new things, develop their leadership skills and socialize with a new group of individuals.

Both Bell County attendees stated that they got out of their comfort zone and tried things that were new to them. The classes they participated in were not sessions they typically would choose. They both said they wanted to attend Teen Summit next year due to the learning experiences, leadership opportunities and the chance to meet new friends. One of  the youth enjoyed Teen Summit so much, it prompted her to attend 4-H Camp for the first time. The parents of both children stated that their child has exhibited more respectful traits at home while being proactive in household chores.