Author: Mary Lawson
Planning Unit: Menifee County CES
Major Program: Camping
Plan of Work: Science Education
Outcome: Initial Outcome
Menifee County 4-H continues to grow in our small community.
Menifee County 4-H recently hosted an exciting day camp, where local youth had the opportunity to explore various fields, including cooking, science, agriculture, and robotics. Through hands-on activities, participants learned valuable life skills and developed a deeper appreciation for these subjects. The cooking sessions taught them how to prepare nutritious meals, fostering both independence and healthy habits.
In the science workshops, campers conducted experiments that sparked curiosity and critical thinking. Agriculture lessons connected them with the region’s rich farming heritage, teaching sustainable practices and the importance of local food systems. These lessons inspired many to consider future careers in agriculture, recognizing the essential role it plays in their community.
Robotics was a standout session, where campers collaborated to build and program robots, blending creativity with technical skills. The challenge of designing functional robots engaged the youth in teamwork, problem-solving, and technological innovation. This introduction to STEM fields opened up new possibilities for the future.
Parents and guardians expressed pride in their children’s newfound confidence and practical skills. Many noted that the camp provided not only educational growth but also personal development, as the youth showed increased responsibility and curiosity about the world around them. These experiences fostered a sense of achievement and self-efficacy.
The success of this 4-H camp underscores the importance of providing diverse learning experiences to young people in rural communities. By exposing them to different fields, Menifee County 4-H is empowering the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators. Their program continues to demonstrate how community-based education can transform lives. 22 Youth were reached in this educational experience. We hope next year we can raise that number to 50.
Overall, Menifee County 4-H's day camp was a tremendous success, helping youth discover their potential while also having fun. The skills learned in cooking, science, agriculture, and robotics will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on these young individuals, as they apply them to future endeavors both in school and beyond.
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