Investing in the Future: Youth Opportunities in Hardeman County
There was once a time in which the list of organized youth extracurriculars in Hardeman County was quite short. That is no longer the case. Hardeman County not only offers an extensive list of youth involvement opportunities, but prioritizes the growth of this list, viewing this priority as an investment in the county’s future.
Bolivar’s Parks and Recreation Director, Anthony Ford, believes providing youth of Bolivar (and Hardeman County) with activities is crucial for individual development and that extracurriculars foster self-esteem, build essential skills, encourage exploration of interest, and help youth discover talents and a sense of purpose.
“I have always felt that investments in early childhood development, education, health, nutrition, housing, and financial security can lead to significant short and long-term benefits for both children and society as a whole,” said Mr. Ford.
To those who say there is nothing to do for children and teens in Hardeman County, Ford would disagree. Ford highlighted a few of the youth events offered in Hardeman County over the summer including: 4H camps, summer school, vacation bible schools, baseball, summer basketball camp, basketball leagues, family friendly open air music events, free fireworks show (Red, White, and Bolivar), free family fishing day at several of our local lakes, YEP, youth summer golf league, Community Water Day, weekly library events, and Camp Bolivar.
Camp Bolivar is a free, week-long exploration of Bolivar. The camp started as an activity for sixth through eighth grade students to introduce them to the many facets of local government. The hope is participants of the camp are inspired to pursue a college education or a technical trade and return to Bolivar to lead the next generations.
Mayor McTizic says noted Camp Bolivar is a summer favorite for students of Bolivar and for himself as well. He shared that over the summer, Bolivar finished its 5th annual Camp Bolivar with a Community Water Day.
Popular activities at Camp Bolivar included visits to the police and fire departments, Bolivar-Hardeman County Library, and Bolivar General Hospital, where participants learned about the life-saving benefits of CPR.
“The success of Camp Bolivar lies not only in its fun-filled schedule, but in its mission to build civic pride, promote leadership, and foster future engagement among Bolivar’s youngest residents. Each year, the camp grows in impact, leaving parents, students, and city staff inspired and encouraged by the results,” Mayor McTizic concluded by stating, “The greatest return on any investment is found in our youth – when we equip the next generation with knowledge, support, and opportunity, we secure the promise of a better tomorrow.”
A great place to begin that investment is at your local library. There is no age requirement or charge to visit the public library. Director of the Bolivar-Hardeman County Library, Becky White, encourages Hardeman County residents to bring children to the library as early as possible.
“We offer programs like Baby Storytime for infants and toddlers to foster language development and early literacy skills through songs, rhymes, and reading aloud,” said Ms. White. “This early exposure is important because it builds strong foundations for success by stimulating brain development, enhancing communication skills, and nurturing a lifelong love of reading. Healthy reading habits developed when your child is young will create a lasting impact. This makes them better equipped for school settings where reading is required and can become an enjoyable hobby throughout their lives.”
All of the libraries in Hardeman County {see Grand Junction Library} work diligently to provide programs for all ages, especially children and youth. The Bolivar-Hardeman County Library has several programs for children and teens including Storytime (Ages 0-2), S.T.E.M. Club (6-13), Lego Club (6-13), Cursive Club (Third grade and above), Dungeons and Dragons (Teens), The Rough Draft Society (Teens), and Film Club (Teens.).
“As the Bolivar-Hardeman County Library Program Coordinator, I take great pride and responsibility in my job. I have the resources and space to create any program imaginable for children and teens.” said Hannah Thompson. ”If there were is a group you would like to start, send me a message, and we can get it started. I want the youth of Hardeman County to know that the library wants you here. We aren’t going to tell you to be quiet. We are going to welcome you with open arms!”
Middleton Community Library currently offers Storytime, Anime Club, and STEM Club. In addition, Middleton Community Library has two special events planned for September including Switch Game Night and Family Board Game Night. Also, in Middleton is the HRAYS soccer league and basketball camp are offered throughout the year at Middleton High School.
Have we still not convinced you that Hardeman County has a program to meet your interest? Perhaps try watching a film at the Historic Luez Theater, or get involved by volunteering, acting, or watching performances at the Hardeman County Arts Council in Bolivar.
There are the NAACP Youth Council and Cub Scouts. In addition, churches can also be a great place for youth socialization. Churches offer Bible Bowls, Vacation Bible Schools, and a summer program known as Youth Evangelism Projects. Consider Hardeman County an oyster. The list of possibilities for youth in Hardeman County is long and growing exponentially.
Pictures courtesy from the community. If we missed any activities or events for your, please send us an e-mail to news@hatchiepress.com.
Author Hannah Thompson
As the assistant director of the Bolivar‑Hardeman County Library, Hannah has the privilege of sharing her love of stories with the Hardeman County community every day. She is excited to do the same as a member of the Hatchie Press team. When she is not working, you’ll likely find Hannah reading in the company of her sweet feline children, Galinda and Galileo.
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