AMES, Iowa –This summer, approximately 1,000 teens are expected to converge on the Iowa State University campus for three days of speakers, dancing, workshops, community service learning and a banquet. The 2017 Iowa 4-H Youth Conference, themed Start Your Future Here, is June 27–29.
“The Iowa 4-H Council is made up of young people from around the state, and they chose this theme, thinking about giving high school students the opportunity to investigate their own passions and interests, career opportunities, what 4-H offers and what it's like to go to college,” said Brenda Allen, conference coordinator and 4-H youth program specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach.
Youth who attend the conference will learn about life on a college campus and meet other youth from across the state. They also will participate in three educational workshops, listen to three keynote speakers, have the opportunity to show their talents and bring back new ideas to their community.
“The Iowa 4-H Council plans the conference for other teens. They choose opportunities and experiences they think will be meaningful to their peers,” said Allen.
Last year’s conference delegates reported growth in their understanding of citizenship as well as leadership, communication and learning skills after attending the 2016 conference.
All youth who have completed eighth grade are invited to register. 4-H members as well as youth who have not participated in 4-H are invited to attend.
Online registration is now open. Youth must register by June 1 for the regular registration fee of $180. Registration will increase to $200 from June 2-10. All registrations close on June 10. For more information or to register please visit www.extension.iastate.edu/4h/iowa4hyouthconference.