With over 12 years of funding the UK Military Teen Adventure Camp continues to serve military service members and parents along with teens from all over the country. The MTAC program was initiated through a grant opportunity funded by the Department of Defense between the Office of Miliary Community and Family Policy and the USDA NIFA. The goal has been to get military youth involved in 4-H experiences by way of High Adventure programming.  Through Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, we add the parent service member or alternate parent to help focus on the relationships between parent and teens together.

In 2023-2024 we facilitated three summer camps serving a total a total of 153 participants, 62 families. Participants were able to enjoy activities consisting of White-Water rafting, river tubing, rock climbing and rappelling, zip-lining, canoeing, hiking and outdoor exploration along with team building, campfire programs and game nights.  Families from every branch of service were represented (Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard) and we have a mix of Active Duty, Guard, Reserve and Veteran families.   

Some of the themes present in evaluations were communication, making memories, being able to have focused quality time on each other, stepping out of comfort zones (teens), connectedness, relationship building and not having to rely on technology.

Participant Quotes:

“My teen found a community of people like her. I watched her build relationships and foster empathy with other teens. The biggest thing I think she gained was confidence.” -Parent participant

“We have learned to take risks and open-up more. Trying new things together has been beneficial. The opportunity to unplug and laugh has been amazing.” -Parent participant

“I have learned to communicate clearly and to keep calm in stressful situations, especially with your parents. Don’t let ego control your thought process. Your parents have the best intentions, so at least try to listen.” -Teen participant

“I learned to take chances and never give up.” -Teen participant

“This camp showed how other people understood what we go through as military kids.” -Teen participant

Overall, this year has not only been amazing for the MTAC team, but families continue to return and spread the word about our camping programs. It has been a pleasure and will always be a pleasure to give back to our military families because they sacrifice so much for our country!