We see the highest drop in middle school participation. Often this is when youth are able to stay home alone after school (impacts afterschool care programs like installation CYPs) and/or youth are ready to try something new. Middle schoolers love to gain independence, try new things, and participate in social activities. Let’s help encourage them to try new things within 4-H! With the variety of 4-H programs, we can meet the unique interest levels of youth.
Southeast District is hosting a Spring Retreat on Jekyll Island from April 22-23, 2023. Military installations like Fort Stewart, Hunter Army Air Field, Kings Bay Naval Base, and reserve units based in SE Georgia are encouraged to connect military families with their local UGA Extension office to register for this fun event. We understand CYP staff time and support can be limited to M-F. That is where 4-H can step in to support youth needs with retreats, camps, competitions, and events like this Spring Retreat.
Most districts offer a special middle school event, so if you are interested in promoting and/or supporting this event for military-dependent youth to attend reach out to Laura Goss at laurwalt@uga.edu. I am happy to connect you to the right point of contact, and share dates, and the like.