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Ready to explore 4-H?

Illinois 4-H empowers youth to be 'Beyond Ready' for life today. Through hands-on learning, leadership opportunities, and real-world experiences, 4-H members sit in the driver's seat to find their spark and explore their interests.

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Give to Extension in your community...

For over 100 years the Extension family of programs has helped connect communities with research to help people live their best life. Give to Illinois Extension in your community and help us continue to achieve our goals!

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Events

Tomatoes and Peppers

March 16, 2026

County

Grundy

Kankakee

Will

2026 Rain Garden Rumble

March 17, 2026 - April 3, 2026

State 4-H Building a Better 4-H Poster Training

March 18, 2026

Wily and Wild Animal Invaders in Illinois

March 19, 2026

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News Releases

fallen, storm-damaged tree lies over a residential driveway

March 13, 2026

After the storm: Illinois Extension shares resources for storm recovery, rebuilding, disaster preparedness
URBANA, Ill. — After strong storms swept across much of Illinois, many communities are facing damaged property and stressful situations. The hours and days following a major storm are often filled with urgent questions. Residents can navigate those decisions using research-based resources from...

Two youth pose with their certifications.

March 12, 2026

Illinois 4-H expands workforce pathways with foodservice credential program for teens
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H is preparing teens to be beyond ready for careers through a new initiative that connects youth with industry-recognized foodservice credentials and hands-on workforce experience.The Beyond Ready Foodservice Industry Credential Program will help...

March 11, 2026

Illinois 4-H youth showcase skill and precision at state meat judging contest
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H members demonstrated their knowledge of meat science and evaluation at the 2026 Illinois 4-H State Meat Judging Contest held March 6 at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Meat Science Laboratory in Urbana. A total of 56 4-H members...

A group of 4-H members stand at a table with a presenter, while a group of people present from a screen that reads: how to select your 4-H project

March 6, 2026

Local ag leaders and 4-H youth gather to talk about the quality care of animals
YORKVILLE, Ill. — From farms to the marketplace, the future of agriculture depends on raising animals responsibly and ethically. On Saturday, local 4-H members from Grundy and Kendall counties gathered at the Kendall County Fairgrounds to learn from industry leaders about practical insights on...

March 5, 2026

Illinois 4-H names new class of statewide youth leaders
Champaign, IL – Thirty-nine outstanding 4-H members from across Illinois have been selected to serve on Illinois 4-H's ambassador teams, recognizing their dedication, leadership, and excellence within the...

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