When Libby George’s kids were too old to participate in 4-H, she turned to her other kids so she could help other kids.It’s not that confusing!In 1997, George started Kids for City Kids, a camp that allows kids who live in the city to experience rural life. Animals are a big part of rural living so George brought her goats as a way to teach the city kids about caring for animals. Kids who participate are taught how to feed, bathe and groom animals and show the animal in an arena setting. They learn to feel comfortable around the animals as well. The camp is a stepping stone for kids who might want to show animals at the county fair.The first Kids for City Kids camp took place over four days and goats were the center of attention.Today, the camp runs four weeks at three locations in Colorado Springs: the Penrose Equestrian Center, Prairie Springs and the Air Force Academy. And the goats have had to share the limelight with rabbits, llamas and miniature horses.Besides learning to care for the animals, there are plentiful activities like games and racing with the miniature horses.Ranchers and farmers donate animals for the camp, and, of course, George brings her goats. Camp counselors are hired to work with the kids. Many of the counselors are former 4-H members or kids who participated in the camps.Camp goers can participate in the county fair. It’s an opportunity for city kids to show animals at the fair, much like the 4-H members do, George said. She organizes the Kids for City Kids show during fair week.George, who works at the Colorado State University Extension Office, is an avid supporter of 4-H. The 4-H program is the most wonderful program in the world,” she said.
