Gardnerville teenager raising funds to attend summer program

Kaylee Hames is one of 250 high school students selected to attend summer school at Princeton University in New Jersey.

The 16 year-old Douglas High School junior is raising money to get to the Junior Statesmen Summer School Program.

"It's an honor to be selected for the summer school and I'm excited about attending," said Hames. "However, I do need financial support to enable me to do so."

The cost of the summer school program is $3,875 which includes tuition, textbooks and room and board.

"Due to special circumstances, my family can't afford the entire amount," said Hames. "I received a partial scholarship and have been able to earn a portion, but will still need $2,000. That's why I'm asking for assistance."

The Junior Statesmen program is equivalent to a one-semester advanced placement course in comparative government and politics.

During the month-long course, students explore the issues of political culture, power and legitimacy in a series of lectures, class discussions and readings.

Hames said she's always been interested in politics and government issues although her family doesn't have a TV.

"I get my news and current events online," Hames said. "I listen to National Public Radio. I joined debate and that got me involved in politics."

Besides being in speech and debate at Douglas, Hames is part of the varsity swim team, National Honor Society, a member of the Nevada All-State Academic Team and has been recognized for academic excellence in biology, English, math, speech, Spanish and yearbook class.

"A sponsorship of any amount will make a big difference," she said. "Any contribution will help me attend the program where I will learn how to get involved in government and develop the skills to make a difference in my community and country."

Hames said that studying politics at Princeton is what she'd really like to do.

"Absolutely," said Hames. "There's no way I'd waste half of my summer if it wasn't for something I really wanted to."

For an individual sponsorship donation to help Kaylee Hames, send a check to:

Admissions Director

The Junior Statesmen Summer School

400 South El Camino Real, Suite 300

San Mateo, CA 94402

Federal tax ID number: 94-6050452

Checks are to be made payable to:

Junior Statesmen Foundation

Kaylee Hames, beneficiary