10/10/2008
K-State Research and Extension
JUNCTION CITY, Kan. - The weather is beginning to show signs of fall, and for many Kansas teens, that means one thing: the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Forum.

The conference is scheduled for Nov. 21-23 at Rock Springs 4-H Center near Junction City, and is open to teens ages 14 to 18, said Beth Hinshaw, Kansas State University Research and Extension 4-H youth development specialist, based in southeast Kansas.

Though planned and hosted by the Kansas 4-H Youth Leadership Council, teens need not have had a previous connection with 4-H to attend, said Hinshaw, who serves as an advisor to the council.

The purpose of the conference is to bring young people from across the state together to hear a variety of motivational speakers to spark interests in leadership, citizenship and community service, participate in workshops and to meet new people, she said.     

Activities for the weekend revolve around a theme, which this year is `Ignite the Fire,´ said Shane Oram, youth council president.

The theme reflects the passion of the planning committee, Oram said. Conference activities will include a torch-lighting ceremony and workshops on leadership development.

Keynote speaker for the conference is Patty Hendrickson, a motivational speaker and author of the book "Who I am Depends on Me!" Oram said. Conference activities also will include socials, delegate meetings, election of the next state 4-H council, a dance, and youth-adult discussion groups with KYLF delegates and volunteers attending
the 4-H Volunteer Forum.

When asked about his favorite part of the leadership conference, Oram said "people."

"Attendees get to spend a little bit of time with old friends from throughout the state and definitely make some new ones that they may not have expected to meet," he said.     "Attendees can learn from others as well as the presenters -- the workshops provide
opportunities to network with peers and older individuals, who share skills and interests that can open new doors for students," Oram said.

The cost to attend the three-day conference is $160, which includes meals, lodging, a T-shirt and special programs.

Many counties and local groups offer scholarships to young people so they can attend, said Hinshaw, who recommended checking with the local K-State Research and Extension office to see if scholarships to attend the conference are available.  

The deadline for registration is Oct. 15. Teens can enroll online at www.Kansas4-H.org or at county or district Extension offices. The conference concept was introduced in 1999 and continues to grow, Hinshaw said.

"We have room to grow -- and we want to -- because we know how positive this experience can be for youth," Hinshaw said.

More information about the Kansas Youth Leadership Forum is available on the Web site http://www.kansas4h.org/Events/KYLF/.