Last Updated on August 20, 2025 11:07 am
NEWLAND, N.C. – The Avery County 4-H Summer W.O.W. Program has wrapped up a season oflearning, exploration, and community service for 55 local children, thanks to the continued support ofAvery County Government. Operated through the Cooperative Extension’s 4-H Youth Developmentdivision, the program relies on county funding to provide safe, high-quality educational opportunitieseach summer.
Running from June 9 to August 1, the licensed program provided safe, full-day activities for youth ages5–12. Each week blended hands-on learning with exciting outings, ranging from educational field trips tocreative STEM projects and community service.
This year’s participants explored a wide variety of destinations, including the Just Jump trampoline park,Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, and a water park in Tennessee. They learned about local industriesduring visits to Pittman Trucking and Linville Falls Winery and Christmas Tree Farm, and even got abehind-the-scenes look at Ashe County Cheese and a working bee farm.
Nature and wildlife education were highlights, with programs led by a North Carolina game warden,Grandfather Mountain’s “Creepy Critters” team, and local agricultural experts. Throughout the summer,children cared for garden beds, harvested fresh produce, and planted pumpkins for a fall display. Foodgrown in the gardens was donated to local non-profit, Feeding Avery Families, alongside weekend foodboxes provided to families in need.
While the program offered plenty of fun, it also fostered leadership, responsibility, and peer mentorship.“When kids first arrive, some are shy and reserved,” said 4-H Program Director Alisha Woodie.“By the end of the summer, you see them mentoring younger participants, takingpride in their work, and sharing what they’ve learned at home. They’re building skillsthey’ll carry for life.”
Nearly half of this year’s participants attended on full or partial scholarships funded through countysupport and DSS subsidies, ensuring all interested families could participate.
The Avery County Government provided core funding for the program, allowing it to maintain affordableaccess and deliver high-quality, hands-on experiences to area youth.
“The county’s backing means everything,” Woodie said. “They’ve never told us no — if itbenefits the kids, they help make it happen. Because of that support, we’re able to give ouryouth opportunities they might not have otherwise.”
For more information on Avery County 4-H programs and other Cooperative Extension offerings,visit avery.ces.ncsu.edu or follow the Avery County 4-H Youth Development Facebook page.
About LiveWell Avery:
LiveWell Avery is a community-driven initiative launched by Avery County Government to connectresidents with essential health and wellness resources. The program fosters collaboration among localorganizations, empowering individuals with the knowledge and support needed to lead healthier lives.Through education, outreach, and partnerships, LiveWell Avery promotes accessibility to programs thatenhance physical, mental, and community well-being. By uniting key stakeholders, the initiative aims tocreate a stronger, healthier, and more connected Avery County.
Caption: County Extension Director and Agricultural Agent Jerry Moody lead a hands-on planting
workshop for Summer W.O.W. participants..
Caption: Summer W.O.W. kids visit Pittman Trucking for a Q&A with a local driver, learning about
careers in the trucking industry.
