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Overnight Camping for Youth
| Name | Robin Currence | | Situation | Overnight camping programs have been proven to have a lifetime impact on a young person. The skills learned in an intensive camping week are often used throughout life and the memories are permanent. Many youth in Chester County do not have the opportunity to attend a summer overnight camp due to lack of funding and/or transportation. In addition, a desire has existed among Extension staff to provide a camping situation that
would emphasize 4-H membership and programs. | | Response | Chester, York and Union County 4-H programs developed and implemented a three-day 4-H camping program in June of 2005. The camp was held at the Tree Tops Center in Van Wyck, SC - within easy driving distance for all
involved. Thirty-five campers attended from the three counties. Four Extension agents and two 4-H volunteers chaperoned full-time, with four additional chaperones and program persons attending part-time. Campers were greeted with 4-H signs and flags, and each day began with the 4-H pledge. Campers particpated in a variety of 4-H activities: natural resources (orienteering, birdhouses, wildlife, fishing, canoeing, water quality, night hike), plants and animals (gardening), health and nutrition
(low ropes and team building, games). Campers stayed in cabins sans air conditioning. | | Impact | Campers reported that they learned how to make a number of items (fishing pole, tackle), learned new facts (wildlife, water conservation), how to use new equipment (compass) and "that sometimes you have to trust people you don't know". Seven campers listed the most important thing learned was trust. |
Last update7/8/2008
This website is maintained by Dawn Lee.
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