CLINTON COUNTY, Ind. — Summer programming for local youth is in full swing as Purdue Extension educators lead 4-H camps and prepare for the upcoming county fair, with key deadlines and opportunities now open for participants.
Karen Jenkins of Purdue Extension joined WILO’s “Party Line” to outline a busy June schedule that includes youth camps, workshops, and final preparations for July’s Clinton County Fair. Jenkins said camps are currently underway at Camp Tecumseh, serving students in grades 3 through 6, with additional programming planned for older youth.
“Camp’s always such a fun time,” Jenkins said. “We want kids to learn and grow and be the best they can be.”
Camps Emphasize Skills and Connection
Jenkins said campers rotate through classes tied to 4-H project areas, including food preparation, crafts, and science, while also building life skills outside the classroom.
“The best thing about camp is you’re getting away from your electronic devices and you’re getting out in nature,” she said. “They’re forging leadership skills and interpersonal skills.”
Camp Tecumseh provides a setting for those experiences, with outdoor activities and group learning designed to foster independence and teamwork. Jenkins added that the environment also introduces routines and social habits some children may not regularly practice.
“A lot of times children don’t even know how to sit down and have a family meal,” she said. “That’s something they learn.”
Fair Entry Process Underway
As camps continue, attention is also turning to the Clinton County Fair, scheduled for July 11–18. Jenkins said 4-H members have already enrolled and selected projects earlier this year, and are now entering those projects into the fair system.
“They go back in and tell us what you’re bringing to the fair,” she said. “That way we can prepare judging sheets and displays.” Livestock registrations were completed in May, while general project entries are now being finalized. Jenkins noted that participation in the county fair is a prerequisite for advancing to the Indiana State Fair in many categories.
Open Class Expands Opportunities
In addition to youth 4-H projects, organizers are encouraging broader community participation through open class entries, which are available to adults and non-4-H participants.
“Open class is for adults — anybody can participate in a variety of different showcases,” Jenkins said. Clinton County typically draws more than 1,000 open class entries, ranging from cooking and crafts to photography and antiques. Jenkins said organizers hope to expand participation further this year, particularly in categories that saw limited entries previously.
“We didn’t even have anybody in photography last year in one county,” she said. “So we’d love to grow that.”
Community Support and Traditions
The fair also serves as a major community event and fundraiser, with local Extension Homemakers groups organizing activities such as fish fries and food stands. Proceeds support scholarships and community programs. “4-H has so many supporters,” Jenkins said. “These kids can grow and have all these opportunities.”
Jenkins emphasized that Purdue Extension’s broader mission extends beyond events, focusing on practical education in areas such as agriculture, financial literacy, and family life.
“We have a world-renowned university right in our backyard,” she said. “And the things we teach — whether it’s food, money management, or agriculture — are life-changing skills.”
How to Get Involved
Residents interested in participating in open class or learning more about workshops and events can contact the local Purdue Extension office or visit its website. Offices are open weekdays during regular business hours.
“Visit us, call the office, or check the website,” Jenkins said. “We’ll help you get involved.”
With camps underway and fair preparations intensifying, Extension leaders say the summer season offers multiple entry points for youth and adults alike to engage, learn, and showcase their work.
