Success Story4-H Grows Outdoor Opportunities



4-H Grows Outdoor Opportunities

Author: Dianna Reed

Planning Unit: Johnson County CES

Major Program: Summer Residential Camps

Plan of Work: Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Outcome: Initial Outcome

The Johnson County Extension Council identified 4-H Summer Resident Camping as a priority for the 2018-19 Plan of Work. They thought it important to provide learning experiences in the areas of leadership, personal development, wellness, safety and life skill acquisition. Due to economic challenges, volunteers, school systems, civic organizations, local businesses and Extension personnel cooperated to provide 15 and 1/2 camp scholarship requests made in Johnson County alone for a total of $2,717.50 in local community support. In addition, the Johnson County Adult 4-H Council paid for all transportation costs and gave all youth who attended an additional $50 discount from the University camping fee of $225 bringing the registration cost down to $175 for each camper. In leadership efforts, teen counselor interviews and selections were conducted by volunteer interview panels. Volunteer leaders and counselors were processed and trained according to ACA accreditation and UK youth risk protection policies. During the 4 day overnight camping session, 300 participants from Johnson, Breathitt, Knott, Lee and Owsley counties chose to attend classes such as canoeing, fishing, archery, riflery, fun foods, swimming, recreation, gagaball, low ropes, climbing wall with zip line, photography and crafting. By participating in the camping program, attendees experienced the four developmental needs of all individuals: Belonging, Mastery of skills, Independence and Generosity. The camping session increased enrollment from last year's attendance of 49 to this year's total of 57 Johnson County youth and adults. Teens counselors, adult volunteers, extension personnel and camp staff worked together during this session to provide hands on opportunities to experience and practice leadership, teamwork, physical activity, good citizenship, group living, safety and independent living skills.






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