The Moore County Leadership Institute will host the For Your Independence - so-called F.Y.I. Conference - from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. May 8 at Union Pines High School to help high school seniors prepare for independent living after graduation.

MCLI, an annual Moore County Chamber of Commerce program, comprises business leaders who are building their leadership skills and finding places to serve the Moore County community.

First presented by the MCLI Class of 2009, the F.Y.I. Conference sought to help graduating seniors successfully transition to campus or work life.

"This group of MCLI leaders recognized the success of last year's conference and the continuing need to help high school graduates commence a life of independence in a difficult economy," said Patrick Coughlin, president and CEO of the Moore County Chamber of Commerce. "Graduation is an important time to prepare for new demands."

Conference topics include: taking care of your body, managing your time, adjusting to campus life, taking care of your car, surfing the Web safely, protecting yourself and managing your money.

The Moore County Chamber of Commerce established the Moore County Leadership Institute in 1989 to develop a broad base of informed, committed and qualified individuals capable of providing dynamic leadership for Moore County. Since 1989, more than 400 professionals have graduated from MCLI.

Each year, MCLI participants select community service projects that seek to enrich lives in Moore County.

Students can register for the program at Moore County high schools or register online at www.moorecountychamber.com.