Research has proven that youth benefit from positive relationships with caring adults. According to the Interagency Working Group on Youth Programs, youth who have mentors typically have "increased high school graduation rates, lower high school dropout rates, and healthier relationships and lifestyle choices". 4-H Camp provides campers aged 8-15 such opportunities to be mentored and nurtured by caring cabin leaders, class instructors, teen volunteers, and camp staff members in hopes that these positive experiences will lead to better life outcomes. 

Graves County took 43 youth, 8 adult counselors, 3 teen counselors, and 1 agent to West Kentucky 4-H Camp in Dawson Springs this summer. Campers were able to participate in flag service, free recreation, swim time, camp dances, nature hikes, reflections, and several exciting classes, including ropes, horse, archery, rifle, canoeing, fishing, and more. Of the campers that attended, 100% received financial assistance toward the camp fee. First Kentucky Bank, the Graves County Extension District Board, and Graves County Schools Transportation partnered together to make this an unforgettable week for the kids who went despite operating at half capacity and under other COVID restrictions.