Clemson University

Clemson University’s Youth Learning Institute (YLI) is a vital component of Clemson’s youth outreach effort and helps fulfill the University’s mission of public service by using the research and knowledge of University faculty and staff to develop programs that especially reach youth. More than 25,000 young people participate annually in over 80 programs held at our leadership centers, ranging from one-day school training to two-week residential programs.

 

Clemson University has been offering experiential education to the youth of South Carolina since 1934. Since that time, Clemson camping has touched the lives of more than 250,000 participants. Initially founded as summer 4-H camps, our mission has expanded beyond traditional programming to include other young people and adults. YLI now operates programs year-round and employs more than 170 staff members.

 

YLI partners with numerous organizations, such as the S.C. Department of Social Services, the Coalition for Natural Resource Education, American Diabetic Association, S.C. Department of Juvenile Justice, Santee Cooper and Columbia College to develop and implement training and education programs that positively impact youth.

Our Vision

 

To learn more, teach more and do more to change the culture of youth development

Our Goals

 

    * To design and develop innovative public service programs for youth that integrate every discipline in the university

    * To lead in discussions and implementation of experience-based learning in family and youth development

    * To create unique strategies for achieving excellence through the collaboration of research, education and service

    * To cultivate and advance opportunities for diverse groups of leaders and volunteers to serve the community

    * To generate increased financial support for youth public service programs through additional contributions, research funding, grants and revenue