Brooksville, FL: When school lets out for the summer, parents start scrambling for child care and ways to occupy their children to keep them busy and out of trouble. Why 4-H Camp? We are offering not only a week of child care and a busy schedule, but 4-H camping exposes youth to so much more.
Traditionally, camping means roughing it in the woods, experiencing nature, swimming in lakes, and sitting around a campfire. Sure, we do all that. What people don’t realize is, while doing that, children are also meeting new people, learning to function as a team member, having new experiences that challenge them, gaining independence, taking responsibility, and even experiencing caring for others. Let’s not forget they all unplug for a week, interacting face to face and learning communication skills. Finally, they are accepted for who they are and included as part of the group despite any differences you as a parent may know about.
Florida 4-H owns three camps across the state, staffed by University of Florida faculty, and accredited by the American Camping Association. Hernando County 4-H utilizes the facilities of Camp Cherry Lake. This one is located in Madison, Florida and has served members since 1937. Youth experience cabin living with 5-8 others of similar age. They choose classes, participate in group and team activities, swim, play, kayak, and the list goes on. With class choices, they can experience archery, fishing, photography, crafting, outdoor cooking, and several other challenging, skill developing opportunities. Throughout the week, we will also have ceremonies, campfires, and get acquainted activities. Never a dull moment at 4-H camp, even when you are having cabin time together.
For 2018, Hernando will camp July 2-6 which means we will plan a 4th of July celebration that includes water games, outdoor fun, a ‘family’ style BBQ and some evening excitement. The cost of camp includes charter bus transportation to and from Brooksville, all food, lodging, a t-shirt, classes, and activities for the entire week, and a priceless set of memories and experiences. There are absolutely no additional costs, fees, or even reason to bring money to camp – it’s all inclusive for $250. Children must be 8-13 years of age as of September 1, 2017. We can accept 14 year olds interested in taking a leadership tract to possibly become a counselor for next year’s camp.
UF/IFAS Extension 4-H is the hands-on youth development program of the University of Florida whose mission is to use a learn-by-doing approach and caring adults to help youth gain the knowledge and life skills they need to be productive, responsible citizens. To achieve its mission, 4-H accesses the expertise and resources of the University of Florida and a nationwide network of Cooperative Extension Service faculty and staff. Nationally, 4-H is the largest youth development organization, serving families for nearly 115 years.
For more information about 4-H or our camping program, contact 4-H Agent Nancy A. Moores at [email protected] or by calling 352/754-4433 ext. 2. Extension programs are open to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, disability, religion, or national origin.
