MISSISSIPPI STATE -- Many Mississippi residents face more challenges to their success than others, but a Feb. 17 conference in Jackson is being designed to prepare workers to narrow the gap.

The Children, Youth and Families At Risk project, part of the Mississippi State University Extension Service, will conduct a one-day conference to enhance knowledge and skills needed by those trying to help at-risk groups.

Registration for the meeting, "Bridging the Gap Between Schools, Families and Communities," will be from 8:30 until 9 a.m. at the Jackson Medical Mall at the University Medical Center. There is no fee for the conference, which will conclude about 3 p.m.

Workshop topics will address helping children succeed at school, Internet usage among teens and senior adults, consumer concerns, workforce preparation, childhood obesity and anger management. Participants can learn how to partner with other agencies and how to rejuvenate existing programs.

Organizers request that advance registrations be made by Feb. 11 so they can plan lunch for participants. For more information, contact local county Extension offices or Rae Wilkinson, conference and project coordinator, at (662) 325-3350.