Youth & 4-H Programs

Learn and grow through 4-H experiences

Illinois 4-H welcomes all youth ages 5 to 18, from all backgrounds, with all interests, wherever they live. They can learn more about the things they like or are curious about. In 4-H, kids and teens will meet mentors and peers in their communities. They can develop new skills, dig deeper in an area of interest, check out careers, and explore the world around them.

What's happening near you

Junior Master Gardeners with 4-H | Starts Sept. 22 | St. Charles
New 4-H Year Kick-Off events: Celebrate the start of the new 4-H year at one of our kick-off events with fun, hands-on activities! Join us to meet 4-H club leaders and staff, ask questions, and more:

We are excited to guide your 4-H journey.

Join our interest list

Explore interests and expand horizons

4-H is a place where all kids and teens can find where they belong. Interested in learning more but not sure where to start? Complete this interest survey to find the 4-H group or experience that's just right for your family.

Why 4-H?

In 4-H, you learn by doing, have fun, and build important life skills. 4-H is a place where you can find where you belong. Want to know more about what your 4-H experience might look like?

Create, build and make things. Whether you're inspired by robots and nature or photography and recipes, our programs give you tools and opportunities to imagine, create, and learn.
Help others. A core aspect of 4-H is learning to serve those around us. 4-H clubs help you find meaningful ways to impact your neighbors and community.
Make new friends. From clubs to camps to workshops, in 4-H you'll meet new people and experience new social and cultural events. It's pretty easy to form friendships when they're based on shared interests and experiences.
Explore careers and expand your world. In 4-H, you can explore your interests and try jobs on for size through hands-on learning. Members also can travel across the state, around the country or even go abroad through our programs.
Be a leader. 4-H provides youth the opportunity to take on leadership roles in their clubs and communities. You can apply the skills you build in 4-H to help you succeed in the classroom and your future career.

Find your county program

Helpful links

Enroll in 4-H

Learn how to start your family's 4-H account in our new online enrollment system, ZSuite. Youth who wish to participate in 4-H events, clubs, or programs, and adults who will be serving as volunteers can enroll.

Learn how to volunteer

As a 4-H volunteer, you can share your skills and experience to help transform a new generation of confident, young leaders and to make a difference in your community and beyond.

Join the Illinois 4-H Alumni group

If you were a member of the Illinois 4-H program, you are one of 25 million Americans who share a unique bond. Create a lifelong connection to 4-H through a free membership in the Illinois 4-H Alumni Association.