The objectives of C1-C4 Area 4-H Teen Retreat are to develop leadership and teamwork skills, foster civic engagement, expand knowledge and skills related to 4-H core content areas, have fun, make new friends, create a sense of belonging, expand social skills, and develop positive youth-adult partnerships. This overnight educational experience is a culminating event for the C1-C4 Area Teen Council, who worked for several months to plan implement, and evaluate this 2-night, 3-day program for their peers. Not only did the C1-C4 Area Teen Council work to plan this event, but many members also taught workshops and funshops, and the officer team lead the program throughout the weekend.

At the Feltner 4-H Camp, the 2024 event hosted 56 high school delegates and teen leaders, along with 11 adults. Through 4-H programming, delegates had the opportunity to create friendships with their peers and mentorships with agents who served as advisors. Youth also heard from one of the Kentucky 4-H State Officers and completed a project to learn about the function of the KY 4-H State Leadership Boards.

At the conclusion of the conference, attendees reported the following:

· 86% of delegates reported that they made new friends

· 88% reported learning something new

· 92% experienced a good or exceptional experience at the event while working with the adults/teens

Another goal of the event is to encourage continued 4-H participation among high school age youth. Of the youth who attended the retreat and completed the survey, 90% reported that they wanted to continue their participation in 4-H and attend future programs and events