Extension Communications
3614 Administrative Services Building
Ames, Iowa 50011-3614
(515) 294-9915
4/6/00
Contacts:
Don Broshar, Extension Youth and 4-H Staff and
Organizational Development Specialist, (515) 294-1473,
dbroshar@iastate.edu
Tracy S. Petersen, Extension Communication Systems, (515)
294-5672, tracyp@iastate.edu
4-H Camp Offers Youth Opportunity to Improve Leadership Abilities
AMES, Iowa -- Iowa youth ages 14-17 will have the opportunity to improve their leadership skills and meet other teens from across the state at this year's Discover the Leader Within 4-H Youth Leadership Institute Camp July 23 to 29.
Participants will experience intensive leadership training through hands-on activities led by Don Broshar, Iowa State University Extension youth and 4-H staff and organizational development specialist. They will use the concepts learned during the camp in a challenge course that includes a rappelling tower, a climbing wall and a zip line. They will use leadership, teamwork and problem solving skills to finish the course together.
Previous participants describe the weeklong experience as 'life changing,' 'strengthening,' 'fun' and 'incredible.' One student evaluated the camp by saying, "This whole week has been nothing but great information and a really fun time. I learned so much. I plan to use all of the techniques I have learned to better myself and hopefully have an effect on other people."
Participants stay at the Iowa 4-H Education and Natural Resources Center northwest of Des Moines. "The cabins have no televisions or computers and are surrounded by nature, so participants can focus on having fun and developing their leadership skills," Broshar said.
The total cost for the camp is $250, which includes meals, lodging and camp supplies. Some students raise this fee through private sponsors, businesses, churches, organizations and clubs. Registration forms are available at any ISU Extension county office, or by calling Broshar at (515) 294-1473. Registrations are due June 30, 2000.
This camp is not limited to 4-H members. All Iowa youth age 14-17 are encouraged to attend. However, the camp is limited to the first 25 youth who apply.
"If young people are to learn the skills, attitudes, and behaviors needed to have an impact on society's institutions they will need opportunities to develop and enhance their leadership potential," Broshar said. By providing youth with these opportunities, not only will they gain the skills and confidence needed to be leaders, but their schools, communities and organizations will benefit from the additional available leadership."
The Iowa 4-H Youth Leadership Institute was created in 1999 to create and implement educational opportunities for youth to learn and practice leadership skills. According to Broshar, the vision of the institute is to develop the climate in Iowa so that young people are perceived as having the potential to be equal partners with adults.
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Extension programs are available to all without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability.