STE. GENEVIEVE — A 4-H Youth Program Associate from Ste. Genevieve was among those who put on a Space Camp in Gasconade County recently.
Alyssa Bowyer was one of several Youth Porgram Associates from the East Central Region assisting with the camp.
She hopes to eventually have a similar Space Camp in Ste. Genevieve County.
The Camp concluded each day with a group activity, bringing all 31 participants together for a final challenge. Through a hands-on team-building activity, Space Camp participants practiced communication and teamwork skills as they worked together to find matching images. Amanda Stapp (right in lower photo), a youth program associate in Cole County, observes participants measure and record data during an interactive activity. Photos by Alyssa Bowyer
The program was developed by Dr. Jeffrey Chalfant of Missouri S&T and Kayce Amsden of Missouri 4-H to encourage STEM learning and highlight the achievements of women in space programs. While the curriculum focused on promoting female success in science and technology fields, boys also attended and enjoyed the experience.
Participants engaged in activities emphasizing team building, communication, engineering, math, and wellness. Two teen counselors assisted, and six adult leaders guided sessions. Lunch was provided, and each youth took home materials to continue exploring STEM topics. The camp welcomed both 4-H members and non-members, creating an inclusive opportunity for learning during winter break.
Thirty-one youth attended, and feedback from families has been overwhelmingly positive. Many parents have asked for more programs like this in the future, proving that 4-H Space Camp was more than just a day of fun — it was an investment in the next generation of innovators.
“We are so proud of the incredible participation and the excitement from all the students,” said Nancy Stephan, Gasconade County’s youth program associate. “Jolene Rodgers, Montgomery County YPA, and I cannot wait to collaborate on more programs like this in the future.”
The free, eight-hour camp was a joint collaboration between Gasconade and Montgomery County 4-H programs.