This summer, Patrick Henry Community College is expanding its Verizon Innovative Learning camp to Patrick County. Established by the Verizon Foundation, the camp gives middle-school-aged girls a chance to explore careers in science technology, engineering and math (STEM).

With a three-week intensive learning experience, 50 Patrick County girls in grades six through eight, will  gain hands-on experience in augmented and virtual reality, coding, and 3D design.

Influential female leaders and innovative projects will guide the girls as they develop an entrepreneurial mindset and become design thinkers.

Launched in partnership with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE), Verizon Innovative Learning helps young girls realize a brighter future – empowering girls with a technology-based education.

PHCC was one of five facilities in the nation to pilot the program when it was launched last summer. Several of the participants competed then at both the district and state levels for the Capital One Coders Experience, and regionally at the Next Corporation Women Who Code event.

This summer, the program is coming to Patrick County.

The camp, which runs from June 11 to June 29, is free for sixth, seventh, and eighth grade girls. Lunch and transportation to and from PHCC’s Patrick County Site will be provided. Students will receive a free tablet to use for the duration of the program. Following the summer program, students will participate in monthly sessions throughout the academic year.

To date, Verizon has invested $200 million in this initiative and reached more than one million students. Learn more at www.VerizonInnovativeLearning.com.