From June 10-13, 2025, agents, campers, teen leaders and adult volunteeers from the Bell County Extension Office attended the JM Feltner Kentucky 4-H Camp in London, KY, collaborating with participants from three additional counties for several days dedicated to educational activities, personal development, and engagement. 

This year, Bell County demonstrated substantial participation, with a total of 59 youth, 6 teens, 10 adults, 1 program assistant and 1 agent present. Bell County’s delegation comprised over 20% of the overall attendance, which included 341 youth and adults from Bell, Knox, Rockcastle and Whitley Counties.

The camp staff displayed exceptional dedication by offering a diverse array of activities for the campers. Participants had the opportunity to select from various classes, including archery, riflery, crafts, crime scene investigation, boating, fishing, outdoor cooking, zip-lining, photography, sewing, origami, among others. Additionally, Counselors-in-Training (CITs) engaged in leadership classes each afternoon to cultivate essential skills for future roles as teen leaders.

Beyond the structured activities, daily recreation included swimming, carpet ball, and the highly popular GaGa ball. Each evening concluded with special events such as Party Bingo, Messy Games, and a Carnival.

We extend our appreciation to the Bell County 4-H Council and District Board, whose generous contributions covered over half of the total camp fees for each camper. Many other businesses and individuals provided monetary donations to ensure that Bell County youth were able to attend 4-H Camp for only $75 per camper. Moreover, the Bell County Schools board of Education voted to once again provide free transportation to and from camp.

Furthermore, thanks to the generous donations from local businesses and community members, scholarship funds were awarded to campers in financial need. Every camper received a minimum $250 scholarship. The remarkable support from our community ensured that every youth who desired to attend was able to participate.

We trust that our campers returned home enriched with new skills, lasting memories, and enthusiasm for the upcoming 4-H Camp experience next year.