Pocahontas County 4-H Campers Appreciate Life Skills Learned Over The Years

Thornwood, WV – Last week the 4-H Camp in Pocahontas County was held at Camp Thornwood. This year the Camp’s theme was “Going Green,” focusing on living environmentally conscious and understanding the importance of sustainability. The 4-H Summer Camp, offered by the West Virginia Extension Service in Cooperation with West Virginia University is nothing new to residents, as it serves as a yearly excursion for young leaders and those interested in learning how to make a difference in the community. Campers, like senior camper Katie Workman, understand the life skills learned will help her make an impact in the larger community.

“Through 4-H, I’ve gained leadership skills and understanding the importance of helping other’s and reaching out in the community” says Workman. “Basically making yourself the best person on you can be. “

Another senior camper, David Mitchell, echoes the same sentiments.

“4-H is something people recognize as something that develops leadership skills and really develops well-rounded individuals. It is something that will definitely follow me through life.”

4-H Camp offers still much more than life skills. It’s the family atmosphere and bond of kinship that has brought Workman back to camp for 12 years.

“It’s a family. The spirit, enthusiasm, and closeness of the whole camp are indescribable.”

The sense of family and 4-H pride extends to the counselors as well. Cathy Mitchell, a camp counselor and mother of a 4-H camper, describes the type of kids that the 4-H camp molds.

“The 4-H kids are the type of kids you want your kids to be around. They’re friendly, open, and supportive. They’re a positive group of kids.”

And as one counselor points out, no matter where you go, 4-H, its pride, kinship, and values remain for life.

“Wherever you go when you meet another 4-H’er you have a connection with them. I met somebody in the Caribbean who was a 4-H’er in Ohio and we just instantly connected. Wherever you go, 4-H is family.”