Heather Haines, 4-H Agent, UGA Extension Forsyth County
Sparks are what help youth see the potential within themselves. Sparking young people’s inner passions, interests, and talents help inspire them on the path to success and is central to youth development work. In Forsyth County, the local Extension Staff and a dedicated group of certified volunteer leaders partner with young people in this process by encouraging them to participate in, and take on, leadership roles through 4-H’s motto of “learning by doing”. This hands-on approach to program delivery allows youth to have exposure to many careers and experiences that encourages them to embrace what they enjoy.
This summer, the local 4-H program will be offering a variety of learning opportunities for local youth to find their spark! This summer’s offerings include:
- Bat Day: 4th-6th graders will spend the day learning about Bats! On June 1st Larry and Laurie Alvord, Forsyth County Extension Master Naturalists, will spend the day teaching about Bats. Registration is $20 and includes lunch. Dropoff at 9AM, pickup time is 2PM.
- Fortson Fun Day: Calling all 4th-8th graders! Join Forsyth County 4-H on June 2nd as we travel to Fortson 4-H Center for Fortson Fun Day! Possible activates include: wilderness survival, zip lining, climbing the rock wall, teambuilding, kickball, canoeing, herpetology, a visit to the Fortson farm, and checking out the canteen! Lunch is provided by the Fortson 4-H Center cafeteria. Drop off is 7:30AM and estimated 5:30PM return. Cost is $40.
- Quilting Day: 6th-8th graders can join the staff for a day of sewing and quilting on June 7th at our office. We have two sessions available, 10am-1pm and 12pm-3pm. Cost is $15 and Lunch is included!
- Dahlonega Day: 4th-12th graders can join the staff for Dahlonega Day on June 8. This exciting day includes gold panning, a tour of a gold mine, and a tubing trip down the Chestatee River! The registration fee is $40 and includes transportation. Your child will need to bring money with them to buy lunch. Drop-off 7:30AM, our expected return time is 4PM.
- Animal Shelter Day: If your child loves animals, make sure they join us on June 15 for a workday at the Forsyth County Animal Shelter. 6th-12th grade 4-H’ers get to make dog and cat toys, help around the shelter, and visit with the animals! The registration fee is $15 and lunch will be provided. Drop off at our office is at 10AM, our expected return time is 3PM.
- Farm Day: 4th-12th graders can join us for Farm Day on June 29. Youth will have the opportunity to interact with different animals, learn about gardening, and take part in a community service project. Registration is $25. Drop off at 9AM, our expected return time is 4PM. Students will bring a sack lunch.
- Atlanta History Center Day: History Lives Here! 4th-12th graders can join us on July 27th to learn about Atlanta and Georgia history, visit Cyclorama, see the historic Swan House and tour the historic farm and gardens. This event is open to all Forsyth County 4th-12th graders and costs $15. We will depart our 5110 Piney Grove Road office at 8AM and expect to return at 4:30PM.
Registration is open now! Please visit https://t.uga.edu/916. Space is limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis.