According to a national survey conducted by GENYOUth in 2020, only 21% of American teens report feeling knowledgeable about where their food comes from, while 40% say they know little to nothing about the topic. There is a clear need to increase youth awareness of local farmers markets and the importance of supporting local agriculture within the community. Many young people are unfamiliar with where their food originates, how it is produced, and how to prepare fresh fruits and vegetables into healthy meals.In response, Clark County 4-H hosted its first-ever Farmer’s Market Camp. This camp engaged youth in hands-on learning about local agriculture, plant production, nutrition, and cooking. Participants visited three local markets, met farmers and vendors, learned how food is grown and sold, purchased fresh produce and ingredients, and practiced how to clean, prepare, and cook those foods. Educational lessons focused on local food systems, nutritional value of locally grown foods, the work involved in farming, and the benefits of supporting local producers.
Fourteen youth ages 9-14 participated in the three-day camp.

As a result of participating in Farmer’s Market Camp:

100% of youth tried a new food

62% learned a new way to prepare a fruit or vegetable

63% reported being surprised by how much work farming requires

100% learned about the health benefits of eating fresh produce

92% learned about a new local market they had never visited before

100% indicated they plan to visit farmers markets to buy ingredients in the future

Participants left camp with increased confidence in navigating local markets, a greater appreciation for Kentucky-grown produce and producers, and the skills to prepare healthy meals at home. This program strengthened youth knowledge about food systems while building lifelong healthy habits and supporting our local agriculture economy.