Special To The Daily Journal

In 2009, an article ran on the front page of the Daily Journal about Millstone 4-H Camp needing some help.  Some may have even offered their skills as a carpenter, painter or just generally felt concern for the camp located in Richmond County.  One Richmond County citizen, however, turned his concern into action, and dollars.

After reading that Millstone 4-H Camp had lost the $30,000 in support that allowed them to offer a week of Operation: Military Kid Camp at no cost to 100 youth (Guard, Reserve and active duty) whose parent(s) have recently, are currently, or are scheduled to serve our country overseas,A.B. Thompson got on the phone.  He made a donation to make this camping experience available to 100 military youth.

Thompson is still actively involved in the camp, and has been humbled by the letters of gratitude that the campers wrote him in 2009.  If this camping experience is to occur in 2010, however, 4-H needs your support.  Camp is a valuable experience for youth.  In one camper’s words, “Thank you for paying for me to come to camp.  It really took my mind off my Dad while he is in Iraq.  The funniest thing that happened at camp for me was playing in the creek, sleeping in a cabin and making new friends.  So thank you so much for giving me one of the best weeks ever.” 

To see more of what these campers had to say about camp, visit the Richmond County 4-H Blog at www.richmond4-h.blogspot.com. 

While at camp, youth participate in canoeing, archery, shooting sports, climbing, swimming, arts and crafts, cookouts, campfires, nature exploration, teambuilding and high ropes. All activities help youth improve their leadership and communication skills while making new friends.  Camp OMK will focus on building coping skills and creating positive outlets for the intense emotions these children now live with daily.  Campers build camaraderie as they meet other youth who are going through similar situations, but equally important is the opportunity to enjoy a carefree camping experience with their peers.  If the $32,000 in support can be raised, the tentative date for youth ages 8-13 is July 18th-23rd for up to 100 campers.  Cloverbud or Young Heroes Camp, for youth 5 to 8 years old, allows youth to experience a shorter version of camp August 2-4 or August 6-8.  Both Cloverbud OMK Camps can accept up to 40 campers. 

If you are interested in more information about either of these 4-H Operation: Military Kid Camps please check the web at www.millstone4hcamp.org for forms or call Gene Shutt at 652-5905 or Scott Enroughty at 919-515-8500 with questions.  If you are interested in the general 4-H program, please contact Michelle Stumbo at 997-8255 or check out www.richmond4-h.blogspot.com!  Richmond County does still have camp spots and scholarships available for youth ages 9-14.