The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension, Fulton County office, is excited to report a successful initiative aimed at improving parent engagement and preparedness for the upcoming 4-H camp. Recognizing the challenges many parents face with busy schedules, our office developed and implemented a comprehensive 4-H Camp Orientation Video. This innovative approach provided an alternative for those unable to attend the traditional in-person orientation sessions.

The orientation video was meticulously designed to cover all essential information, mirroring the content of our in-person meetings. Topics included detailed guidelines for camp participation, a comprehensive "what to bring" list, transportation logistics, clear expectations for campers, step-by-step instructions on completing various required forms, and answers to frequently asked questions.

A crucial component of this initiative was the implementation of a verification process. Parents who viewed the video were required to complete a short verification step at its conclusion, certifying their completion of the orientation. This ensured accountability and confirmed that vital information had been disseminated.

The results of this pilot project are encouraging. The 4-H Camp Orientation Video garnered 31 views, demonstrating a significant reach to our camp families. More importantly, 7 parents successfully verified their completion of the orientation after watching the video. While the number of verifications is a starting point, it represents a direct impact on parental preparedness and underscores the value of offering flexible access to crucial information.

This initiative not only leveraged technology to overcome logistical barriers for parents but also ensured that all families, regardless of their availability for in-person meetings, had access to the necessary information to prepare their children for a safe and enriching 4-H camp experience. The success of this video orientation highlights its potential as a valuable tool for future 4-H programs and strengthens our commitment to serving the needs of our community. We look forward to building upon this success and exploring further innovative ways to support our 4-H families.