Summer 4-H camps is a place where children get the experiences they can use for a lifetime. There are the simple challenges of learning how to shoot a bow, going on a hike, conquering a high ropes course, making their bed, clean-up after themselves, or gaining independence. There are much more complex challenges of getting along with a new group of peers, learning how to ask for help from others, or taking manageable amount of risks without a parent following after you. Psychology Today states that summer camps are the perfect places to help children develop their psychosocial development. The Metcalfe County 4-H program provided this camping experience at West Kentucky 4-H Camp in Dawson Springs, Kentucky. A total of 43 adult, teen volunteers and campers (Campers are youth between the ages of 8-18) were an integral part of the camping week by demonstrating responsibility and leadership as part of the camp team. Over thirty camp classes such as nature, shooting sports, canoeing, recreation, crafts, horse, sports, gaga ball and challenge course were offered to the campers. The Metcalfe 4-H Facebook page was utilized all week during camp to highlight the activities and show pictures of campers enjoying camp in order to keep parents connected. More than $7500 was given to youth through the 4-H camp scholarship program allowing low income youth the opportunity to attend camp.

Camp survey revealed that: 95% of the campers were responsible at camp; 98% made new friends; 94% tried a new skill at camp; 96% experienced a caring adult while at camp and 97% plan to come back next year. In addition to these results, 89% of the adults who volunteered had attended 4-H camp as a camper. Our adults feel a strong sense of belonging to 4-H and shared the love of camp. A survey captured the following: 100% of those surveyed reported that because of camp, they were more independent, more confident to try new things and can work better in a group.