Illinois 4-H, the flagship youth program of the University of Illinois Extension, is the largest out-of-school youth organization in Illinois. In Jo Daviess County, 4-H youth development programs encourage kids to “learn by doing” through engaging, hands-on activities. Participants can learn, practice, and showcase new skills while exploring their interests: cooking, gardening, exhibiting livestock, or caring for the environment. These topics can be explored through 4-H experiences such as community clubs, special interest clubs, workshops, and more.

"Illinois 4-H offers over 100 projects for kids to choose from in areas like animal science, career and leadership, civic engagement, creative arts, environment, food systems and healthy living, and STEM," says Angela Miller, 4-H Program Coordinator. "With that many projects, there really is something for everyone."

Families interested in learning more about 4-H are invited to attend a 4-H "Information Night" on Sunday, September 29, at 4 p.m. at the Jo Daviess County Extension Office at 204 Vine Street, Elizabeth, IL. This event is designed for families who have heard about 4-H but want to learn more or those who know they want to join but still have questions." 4-H has a lot to offer, so there is a lot to talk about," says Miller. "This will be an opportunity for families to ask questions about the 4-H program in general and Jo Daviess County 4-H."

Families interested in attending the "Information Night" must RSVP by calling the Jo Daviess County Extension office at 815-858-2273 or by registering online at https://go.illinois.edu/JDC4-HInfoNight. 

Illinois 4-H welcomes members aged 5 to 18 from all backgrounds and interests, no matter where they live.