WEST VIRGINIA (WVDN) – Youths from across West Virginia head to West Virginia University Jackson’s Mill each summer to participate in camps. This year is no different, as WVU Extension offers five statewide camps, including a new addition this summer.
There are countless opportunities for youths throughout the state to attend summer camp, from statewide to specialty county camps, everyone is welcome. 4-H membership is not required to attend camp.
“West Virginia state 4-H camps provide access to incredible camp experiences and quality summer learning for all West Virginia youth,” Jason Burnside, WVU Extension 4-H camping specialist, said. “You don’t have to be in 4-H to participate, but it’s a great way to learn more about our youth programs, in addition to learning new skills and making lifelong friendships.”
The five statewide camps offered this summer include Older Members Conference (OMC), Junior Firefighter Camp, Camp Jump Start, Alpha I and Alpha II.
Older Members Conference is an annual weeklong camp where attendees learn leadership and civic engagement skills by leading camp activities and discussing current issues. Youths participate in workshops to master new skills that will help them in their futures. This camp will be held June 18-23 and is open to anyone ages 14-21.
Junior Firefighter Camp provides classroom education and practical training to further students’ knowledge and skill in firefighting and emergency operations. Campers will learn CPR, conduct live fire training, learn about aircraft and vehicle firefighting, as well as participating in team building and leadership exercises. This camp will be held June 17-22 and is open to youths ages 14-17.
Camp Jump Start, the newest camp offered by 4-H, is a weekend camp that introduces younger campers to a statewide camping experience. It focuses on team building, personal skill building and friendship. Camp Jump Start will be held July 7-9 and is open to youths ages 10 and 11.
Alpha I and Alpha II also are weeklong camps where campers are divided into age-specific groups to participate in workshops and learn about teamwork and leadership. Campers also will attend assemblies with guest speakers and have many other opportunities to develop new skills. Alpha I is not a prerequisite to Alpha II. Both camps are open to anyone ages 12-21. Alpha I will be held July 9-14, while Alpha II will be held July 16-21.
“I am looking forward to another amazing summer of camps at Jackson’s Mill,” Brent Clark, director of 4-H Youth Development, said. “The addition of Camp Jump Start to our offerings, as well as the continued evolution of our weeklong state camps, will provide wonderful opportunities for youths throughout West Virginia.”
Each county in West Virginia offers some type of camping program for 4-H’ers and other youths in their community, including day camps and overnight camps.
Costs for each camp vary, but financial assistance is available for some programs. For more information about WVU Extension 4-H camp opportunities, visit https://extension.wvu.edu/youth-family/4h/camps or contact your local WVU Extension office.
If you want to learn more about WVU Extension, visit extension.wvu.edu or follow @WVUExtension on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram.
