4-H in Cook County

What's it like in 4-H?

In 4-H, you get to decide what topics and projects interest you most. You make 4-H what you want it to be. Work on many projects or focus on one or two. Choose what events sound fun to you, and do them. In 4-H, you have an important role in making your community a better place to live, but you don’t have to do it alone. As a club, you’ll figure out what’s needed most in your neighborhood and find ways to help.

In 4-H, you’re part of a family working together. At club meetings, you’ll learn how to get along with others as you build your skills and help your community. In 4-H, you’ll meet adults who care about you and want to help you succeed. 4-H matches you with mentors who will coach you in areas like problem-solving, communicating, and teamwork. 4-H introduces you to potential careers and then gives you the training to get the career you want.

You've found a home in Cook County 4-H

Regardless of who you are and the interests you bring, there's a 4-H program where you belong and feel welcomed. Not everyone finds their way to 4-H through the same door. Some start by joining a club. Others are introduced to 4-H through a joint program with another youth-serving organization. Still, others may start their 4-H journey through an experience at 4-H camp or one of a dozen other conferences. However, you've found us, know that you have a home. 

4-H's learning opportunities are intentionally designed around four essential concepts necessary for positive youth development: a sense of belonging with a positive group, independence and self-determination, a spirit of generosity toward others, and a wide variety of opportunities to master life challenges. We're the friend you've been looking for.

Our 4-H in Cook County staff can present each series at your school, after-school program, or organization anytime during the school year or summer.

If you are interested in bringing one of our programs to your location, please, contact our staff below.

Cloverbuds

Illinois 4-H Cloverbuds

Illinois 4-H Cloverbuds is a youth development program for children aged 5-7. The program is an extension of the traditional

 4-H program, which focuses on providing educational opportunities for youth in agriculture, science, engineering, and technology (STEM), as well as healthy living, citizenship, and leadership.

If you are interested in bringing one of our programs to your location, please contact our staff below.  

Available in Spanish/Disponible en Español

 

 The 4-H Team is currently in the process of revising all program offerings. We appreciate your understanding.

Dated Sept. 30, 2024

Start Exploring Today!
child

Cloverbuds

Cloverbuds is for kids ages 5-7, allowing them to explore and learn by doing fun, age-appropriate activities guided by an adult volunteer.
mental health

Your Thoughts Matter

Learn about mental health, how it affects people, and why it is vital to overall well-being.

Lego emotions

Embrace Joy, Sadness and Anxiety with LEGO Building

LEGO building can be used in discussions about emotional intelligence and safe conversations for youth.
Youth

Welcome to the Real World

An interactive learning simulation for youth that demonstrates how their decisions and the careers they choose affect the money they spend or save each month.
Female Graduate

1:1 Coaching and Mentoring

Coaching and mentoring are crucial for the development of high school students, offering essential guidance and support that aids in their academic and personal growth.

Green 4-H clover and Health Rocks program logo

Health Rocks!

Teens face immense pressures to make unhealthy choices, including trying to vape. This comprehensive program teaches youth about healthy decision-making and avoiding alcohol and tobacco use.
STEM Ed

STEM xPlorers

A stimulating program designed for young individuals to delve into computer science, physics, electricity, forensics and various engaging STEM activities.

computer science

Computer Science and Programming

Hands-on computer science activities like Scratch, CODE, LEGO Mindstorms, and Makey-Makey foster creativity and problem-solving skills in students.
like a boss

ESI: Entrepreneurship Investigation

Young individuals will explore entrepreneurship by examining local businesses, identifying successful entrepreneur traits, and assessing their own entrepreneurial skills.
Two boys and one girl from diverse backgrounds smiling

Leap into Careers

Career exploration for elementary students. Grades: 3-5
finances

My Financial Future

This project uses hands-on activities and real-life scenarios to help youth learn financial concepts and develop critical money management skills.

justice

True Leaders: Culture, Power, and Justice

This youth development approach to social justice offers dynamic opportunities for youth to explore their identities, different cultures, new perspectives, and histories.
Fairs and Shows

2023 Illinois State Fair

State Resources for Illinois 4-H Members and Clubs

Club Meetings
Resources for current club members and leaders.
4-H Member Projects
A variety of projects are offered through 4-H so members can pick the ones that most interest them. Or they can find other young people with the same interest and study that topic with the help of a volunteer that shares the same interests.
Partner with 4-H
Illinois 4-H produces the youth leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, stewards, and builders we need to solve world problems. Many programs can be tailored to meet the needs of youth in school classrooms, after-school programs, community groups, and more
Join/renew
Head to the online enrollment system to join or renew.
Explore Statewide Leadership Roles
Planning, presenting, teaching, mentoring, advocating and advising ~ you’ll do it all as 4-H Teen Leadership member!
Volunteer with 4-H!
As a 4-H volunteer, you can share your skills and experience to help transform a new generation of confident, young leaders.

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