I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, and my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world. This is the pledge of 4-H, the nation's largest youth development organization. More than 6 million youth have been involved in 4-H over the years and stand out among their peers as a result of this simple concept. Did you know that 4-H participants are nearly two times more likely to plan to go to college and almost twice as likely to get better grades in school? Their success can be attributed to a "learn by doing" approach, which is embraced by Dare Cooperative Extension staff members.

The 4-H program in Dare County is sponsored by the N.C. Cooperative Extension office and is led by Katherine Irby, 4-H Agent. The program offers activities year-round outside of regular school hours including the 4-H Summer Day Camp. The camp, which is currently in full swing, operates continuously for eight weeks in the summer, Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM for rising 1st graders through rising 9th graders. Elementary age camps are held at Manteo Elementary and Nags Head Elementary. Middle school age camps meet at Family Recreation Park in Kill Devil Hills and Wescott Park in Manteo.

Dare County 4-H Summer Camps will be operating through August 10 and applications are still being accepted for campers of all ages. There is a $50 non-refundable registration fee and a $90 weekly fee.

Dare County 4-H Summer Camp participants often work with Dare County Master Gardener Volunteers. On July 10th campers will visit the Outer Banks Arboretum to learn about the local environment. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2012, Dare County Master Gardeners is a community oriented program helping individuals learn more about plants, soil nutrients, cultural practices, and pest management. Completion of the program qualifies Master Gardener Volunteers to serve the community by sharing their knowledge of lawns, gardens, shrubs and trees with fellow gardeners, school students, and community groups.

For more information on how you or your family and friends can get involved in 4-H or Dare County Master Gardeners, visit the Dare County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension at 517 Budleigh Street, Manteo or call 252.473.4290.