Opening Doors for Rowan County Youth
Rowan County Fiscal Court is proud to support local youth and the positive development opportunities they receive through 4‑H and the Cooperative Extension Office. This year, the Court took a meaningful step by allocating $10,000 to help cover the cost of 4‑H campers attending summer 4‑H Camp, helping ease the financial burden for families and ensuring more young people can benefit from this formative experience.
Summer 4‑H camp has long been a cherished part of youth development — a week where campers make friends, build confidence, learn independence, and experience new skills in a safe, outdoor environment. For many families, the cost of overnight camp can be a barrier, and the Fiscal Court’s funding helps make this tradition accessible to participants who might otherwise miss out.
This investment isn’t just about fun; it’s about equity and opportunity. By intentionally setting aside funds to reduce costs for campers, the Court is supporting personal growth, leadership, and lifelong learning for young people across Rowan County. This supports the broader mission of the Cooperative Extension, which delivers research‑based education and positive youth development experiences that help young people reach their full potential.
The Cooperative Extension Office offers a wide range of upcoming classes and activities throughout the year that complement 4‑H involvement, drawing families together while building practical skills. Recent and upcoming offerings include hands‑on classes in areas such as:
Cooking and nutrition, where youth and adults learn healthy habits and kitchen confidence,
Gardening and horticulture workshops, connecting young people to where their food comes from and how plants grow,
Community‑focused learning programs that bring families together for shared experiences.
These programs reflect the Extension’s broader mission to provide accessible educational opportunities for all ages — not just 4‑H members — and they give youth real‑world skills they can use at home, at school, and beyond.
You can view updates and upcoming classes at the Rowan County Cooperative Extension Service Facebook page.
Investing in youth isn’t a short‑term expense — it’s a long‑term commitment to Rowan County’s future. When kids feel supported, challenged, and included, they’re more likely to stay engaged in school, contribute positively to our community, and grow into adults who give back.