Youth Center creates new 4-H programs for all Published Aug. 5, 2009 By Priya Ramanathan 66th Air Base Wing Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- After a successful summer, Hanscom's Youth Center is gearing up for additional programs for the school year that will support its mission of developing youth skills through leadership, experience and recognition. The Hanscom Youth Center provides services and opportunities for youths between the ages of nine and eighteen that will help them reach their full potential as well as teach them important life lessons. The center follows the 4-H program, a youth education branch of Cooperative Extension Service that encourages young adults to learn through experience to gain self confidence and achieve personal goals. Volunteers from organizations throughout the base come to the Youth Center to share their talents and pass them on to others. "It's hard to find volunteers so we really appreciate it when people want to give more to the community," said Julie Frederick, Program Director. The center offers programming in several areas, including leadership, education, fitness, health and the arts. For example, programs offered in the arts include photography and fine arts competitions, the Missoula Children's Theater and a craft club. Fitness and health includes a cooking club, intramural team sports and a larger League Youth Sports Program for various sports. This year, the Youth Center is beginning to incorporate a variety of new programs for youths and their families. For example, they're planning a sewing club that will help young people experience the enjoyment of sewing and quilting. The finished quilts will then be donated to Quilts for Kids, providing an opportunity for youths to give back to the community and develop their own artistic abilities. For more information, contact Patricia Sabine at Patricia.Sabine@hanscom.af.mil. For more information on programs and fees, call the Youth Center at 781-377-3739 or visit their website at www.hanscomyouthprograms.com.