Released April 2, 2009

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. – Middle school students can find themselves in the middle – too old for grade school activities, but not old enough for high school activities or a summer job.

A relatively new summer opportunity combining camp experiences with mini-professional development sessions focusing on leadership, citizenship, life-skills and career opportunities should help to fill the gap for students ages 12-14, said Beth Hinshaw, an advisor to the Kansas 4-H Youth Council planning the youth gathering.

The 2009 offering is titled “Ready, S.E.T. Campference!” and scheduled June 9-12, 2009 at the Rock Springs 4-H Center located south of Junction City, Kan., said Hinshaw, who is a K-State Research and Extension 4-H youth development specialist.

“This year's title reflects added opportunities to explore careers in science, engineering and technology,” said Hinshaw, who noted that having Youth Council members plan the conference is yielding a mix of activities along with opportunities to meet new people and grow toward being a more self-confident young adult and caring member of their community.

The cost to attend the youth camp-conference is $180 and includes meals, lodging, camp activities, a camp t-shirt and photo. The camp is sponsored in part by Farm Credit Associations of Kansas to help hold down costs.

More information is available at county and district Extension offices and online at http://www.Kansas4-H.org. Deadline for registration is May 1. The camp is expected to fill quickly, and early registration is recommended.

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http://www.oznet.ksu.edu/news/story/briefs040209.aspx

Contact: Elaine Edwards, elainee@ksu.edu