The Targeted Life Skills model (Hendricks, 1998) has been an important guide to planning, implementing, and evaluating 4-H youth development programs.  This model provides a holistic youth development approach, referred to by multiple researchers (Barkman & Machtmes, 2002; Garton, Miltenberger, & Pruett, 2007; Pittman & Yohalem, 2002; Scales, 1996; Wright & Bersamin, 2004.)  4-H based studies using Targeted Life Skills identified a positive relationship between participation in 4-H activities and life skill development in youth participants (Boleman, Cummings, & Briers, 2004; Ferrari, Hogue, & Scheer, 2004; Fox, Schroeder, & Lodl, 2003; Garton, Miltenberger, & Pruett, 2007; Smith, Genry, & Ketring, 2005; Ward, 1996  In 2019, 13,487 youth, volunteers and extension staff participated in 4-H summer camp. 4-H camp is an integral delivery method of Kentucky 4-H youth development activities.   Attending 4-H camp provides youth an opportunity to engage in activities in which they may otherwise not experience.

4-H Camp has a long standing tradition of teaching youth the 4 elements of the circle of courage in a concentrated week. Belonging, Independence, Mastery, and Generosity are seen in every activity at camp.  In 2019, Bourbon County 4-H partnered Anderson County and Nicholas County 4-H to provide a week long camping experience that helped campers and counselors alike learn and be a part of the 4 elements.  Bourbon County 4-H had a 21% increase in camp attendance, resulting in the largest ever camping group for Bourbon County with 172 campers and counselors.  

In 2020, due to the global pandemic, we were unable to have Summer 4-H Camp.  In an attempt to "bring Camp to the Camper", we offered 4-H Camp in a box. to all those who were registered for 2020 4-H Camp in Bourbon County.(Camp was already full, with a waiting list, before March 15). The boxes included camp games, songs, crafts, country store items and snacks.   This was very well received with over 50% of those registered for in-person camp, requesting and picking up Camp at Home boxes.  Feedback on the boxes was very good, with many social media posts of 4-H'ers enjoying "4-H Camping at Home"!