Got a bright young mind under your roof who might have an emerging interest in science, technology, engineering and/or mathematics? If so, mark your family-fun calendar for Wednesday, June 19. The Idaho Falls Chukars and Idaho Falls YMCA are returning in 2019 with an exclusive day camp where local youth can explore the inner workings of STEM. The immersive sci-centric experience at Melaleuca Field will be capped off with an action-packed Chukars game that night as our local boys of summer take on the Missoula Osprey.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Idaho Falls YMCA and the Idaho Falls Chukars on our second annual Northwest Cosmetic Labs STEM Camp and STEM Night at the Park,” notes Michael Hughes, CEO and President of Elevation Labs. “As an organization, we strive to make a meaningful impact within the Idaho Falls community, and we are especially focused on STEM education.”
Hughes adds that while company employees run “STEM Exposure” events at local elementary and middle schools throughout the year, the STEM camp itself is truly something special, as it provides an ideal way to engage the broader community through a variety of interactive experiments.
“I firmly believe that when a child gets to experience science or technology first-hand it can influence the trajectory of their education and potentially even their career,” Hughes said. “This year our goal is to double the number of Camp participants from 300 to 600 children ages 8 to 12, and we are working with several new and exciting local businesses, including the Idaho National Laboratory, to ensure that we continue to offer cutting-edge activities that span the STEM spectrum.”
The effort also perfectly aligns with the mission of Idaho Falls YMCA, which specializes in fostering community foundations through youth development.
“STEM has been an integral part of our focus for the past three years working hand in hand with others to ensure that all youth, regardless of income or background, have equitable opportunities with STEM,” said Monica Bitrick, CEO of the Idaho Falls YMCA. “We are thrilled to provide the opportunity to share STEM throughout the year.”
According to Chukars spokesperson Paul Henderson, last year’s event was an enormous success. “We are excited to try and double the number of participants this year,” he said. “The Chukars are committed to serving the community and have been for many years. We are thrilled to host this community event again and to work with great partners in providing an opportunity to educate local youth on how fun and exciting STEM can be.”
Game night is presented By Northwest Cosmetics as well as Idaho Grain Products, Arrow 107, East Idaho News, MyFM, KIDK TV-3. Registration is free and open to all youth from grades 2 to 6. Participation also includes a ticket to the game, which will feature an array of booths and more interactive learning stations all around the ballpark.
Call Melaleuca Field at 208-522-8363 to register, or print your registration form and mail to P.O Box 2183 Idaho Falls, ID 83403.
Source material courtesy of Robin Black, Northwest Cosmetic Labs
