DATE: 5/10/06

CONTACT: Barbara Brown, (803) 773-5561; babrwn@clemson.edu

WRITER: Diane Palmer, (864) 656-4741; spalmer@clemson.edu

Military kids to get free day at the zoo through OMK

COLUMBIA – Many military families are being separated as one or both parents are deployed to war zones. Children in these families are struggling with the absence of a parent, as well as anxiety over media coverage of military operations. To help them cope, Clemson Extension and Operation Military Kids are partnering with The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia to provide a free day at the zoo on Father’s Day, June 18.

Families should present a copy of their deployment orders for their children to receive free admission. All fathers, military or not, will also be admitted free.

“Operation Military Kids is a national initiative that provides youth development programs and support while parents are deployed,” said Barbara Brown, Clemson Extension agent and program director for the state.

In South Carolina, 4-H and Clemson Extension deliver these programs.

“Military kids need to connect with other youths in similar situations. They seek friends and adults who can help them cope,” added Brown, who works with Clemson’s Institute for Economic and Community Development.

Operation Military Kids also partners with other national organizations such as 4-H, American Legion, and Boys and Girls clubs, among others. It provides educational, recreational and social support programs and helps mobilize communities to support military families. This complements South Carolina 4-H and Community Development programs.

Young people across America who are in 4-H, learn leadership, citizenship and life skills. The South Carolina 4-H Youth Development Program uses a learn-by-doing approach, backed by caring adults and the knowledge and resources of Clemson University.

The zoo will be open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Father’s Day. For more information, contact Barbara Brown at (803) 772-5561 or babrwn@clemson.edu or Rachel Beanland, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, (803) 779-8717 ext. 1117.

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