2020 – 2021 Success Stories 

When the COVID-19 global pandemic forced Kentuckians into quarantine, youth and families began spending more time at home, minimizing opportunities for youth to engage in typical extracurricular activities. All Kentucky 4-H Camping programs were also cancelled for the summer. In an effort to keep youth and families engaged and learning, Boyle, Lincoln, and Powell County agents and volunteers created a virtual camping option. Teen and adult volunteers met virtually to plan an online Camp at Home Program and twenty-one volunteers (nine adults and twelve teens) aided in the implementation of the program over the course of five days.  The program was advertised on social media and in county newsletters. 

More than fifty “campers” registered for the online program, which was conducted using a private Facebook group. Teen and adult counselors conducted daily activities, such as learning camp songs and dances, costume contests, door decorating contests, virtual board games, fishing contest, and a week-long scavenger. Leaders also held daily classes focusing on science, arts, cooking, and service learning. Evening programs included a trivia night, field games, bingo, and a virtual campfire. Overall, thirty-five people participated in the more than sixteen unique activities offered for campers and their families. 

Of those participating, 89% took part in at least four different activities, and 80% completed all activities. Campers were able to learn new skills through this experience and volunteers were able to share their skills with others. One parent commented that even she learned some new kitchen skills during the cooking class. 

At the conclusion of the program, one parent had this to say about her families experience: “My camper has been nervous about attending regular camp and is very hesitant to leave home. But this week has been so good to push her to be more independent. She has had so much fun and is very interested in going to camp next year. Do I count as an adult counselor for this year’s camp? I sure feel like one and my whole family is having fun!” Other evaluation results are as follows: 

• 100% of those participating said they enjoyed the virtual camp activities
• 90% reported they learned a new skill during the week
• 100% of respondents indicated that 4-H is a place where they get to figure out things for themselves
• 91% report that 4-H is a place where they have a chance to be a leader.