Author: Eric Comley
Planning Unit: Garrard County CES
Major Program: 4-H Youth Development Programming
Plan of Work: Valuing Natural Resources and Establishing Community Environmental Awareness
Outcome: Long-Term Outcome
In the 2017 Outdoor Foundation report on Outdoor Recreation participation, 15% of respondents said they went outside to feel more confident, 9% to talk to new people, and 18% to gain a sense of accomplishment. 4-H Camp is a staple of the Kentucky 4-H Program and one of the most recognizable programs in Garrard County 4-H as well. The Garrard County 4-H Youth Development Agent, to improve local youth confidence, social skills, and accomplishment, recruited 43 youth to attend 4-H Summer Camp. Beyond the 43 attending 4-H Camp, 11 boys elected to participate in the Outpost Camping experience. Outpost Camping is a more primitive, so the "luxury" of cabin amenities, such as electricity, close proximity to running water and traditional bathroom facilities exists, are tempered by distance and schedule. All the boys had access to bathroom facilities, showers, and all of the traditional 4-H Camping necessities were met. The Garrard County 4-H Youth Development Agent provided resources and planning materials for the Garrard County Agriculture and Natural Resources (ANR) Agent who served in a leadership role. The Garrard County ANR Agent worked with them to understand the value of self-reliance, food preparation, and personal hygiene and responsibility. During verbal evaluations with the Outpost campers, they expressed a new appreciation of basic necessities, enjoyed on "main" camp time, but wanted to be back out in the freedom of their primitive campsite, learned how to care for themselves and their space, and connected with nature in a new and encouraging way. 100% are anxious to return to camp and 100% would like to serve in a leadership role for this experience. Their confidence in their abilities and the demonstration of those new skills have created a confident, prepared group.
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