Author: Kelly Bland
Planning Unit: Ohio County CES
Major Program: Leadership
Plan of Work: Acquiring basic life skills in FCS and 4-H
Outcome: Long-Term Outcome
According to 4-H, 80% of children involved in community service projects report a stronger connection to their community, and 70% feel more confident in their ability to make a difference. The benefits of engaging children in community service are extensive. Research from the Corporation for National and Community Service indicates that children who participate in volunteer activities are more likely to perform better academically, with 60% of young volunteers showing improved grades. These experiences help develop essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. Engaging in community service also instills a lifelong commitment to civic engagement and social responsibility, with 75% of youth volunteers continuing to volunteer as adults. The McLean County Family and Consumer Science Agent partnered with 4-H Agents from Edmonson, Meade, Union, and Daviess counties to provide classes during camp week giving kids a chance to give back to counties across the Western Kentucky region.
At the Western Kentucky 4-H summer camp, 42 children participated in a community service class designed to teach the importance of giving back to their communities. The children engaged in various activities, such as creating a "how to sew" and card-making grab-and-go kits, creating care bags for those in need, and creating care packages for senior citizens. This hands-on approach allowed them to see the direct impact of their efforts and fostered a sense of responsibility and empathy.
By participating in the community service class at the Western Kentucky 4-H summer camp, the children not only contributed positively to their community but also gained valuable skills and experiences that will benefit them throughout their lives.
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