Harper College helping kids live green

Going green isn't just for grown-ups. This summer, Harper College will launch a new kids-only certificate program focused on all aspects of green living, from recycling and composting to alternative energy sources and organic gardening.

The program, part of the 2010 InZone kids' enrichment camp, allows students to visit green farms, grow and taste-test their own green foods, try their hand at green yoga and examine green products they can use at home. The classes culminate in a "Green Warrior" certificate.

"Being green actually is easy, and it's just as important for children as it is for the rest of us," Youth Program coordinator Kevin Hahn says. "Our Green Warrior certificates will represent children who are dedicated to learning new techniques designed to help make a difference in the world, one community at a time."

The Green Warrior program is open to kids ages 11-14; registration begins Friday, March 5.

Harper's Summer 2010 InZone also includes other sophisticated offerings, including in-depth courses in graphic design and sculpting that mimic college classes. A new Film Academy also is on the menu, giving students a chance to explore acting and make a professional movie with help from a film company at the course's end.

InZone annually features about 250 courses to pique kids' interest; classes cover sports, fishing, music, fashion, dance, cooking, reading, science and more. The camp is open to kids ages 8-14.

"InZone is designed to help children experience brand-new activities and further develop existing skills in a variety of real-life areas," Hahn says. Courses run Monday through Thursday; the Green Warrior certificate program, like the other class offerings, begins June 14 and runs through mid-August. Before- and after-camp care is available. To register for Green Warrior courses or other InZone programs, or for more details, including a complete schedule, call (847) 925.6300 or visit harpercollege.edu/youth.