Metro 4-H

Empower Urban Youth with 4-H!

University of Illinois Extension has an innovative initiative designed to engage urban youth in meaningful learning experiences. The program focuses on reaching young individuals who historically have not been exposed to 4-H opportunities. Through in-school and out-of-school programming, collaboration with teachers and out-of-school providers, workshops, and other resources, we aim to empower youth with essential life skills.

The Metro 4-H Youth program offers opportunities for youth and teens to explore:

  • STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics): From coding to environmental science projects, curiosity and problem-solving skills thrive here!
  • Visual Arts: Youth can develop creativity, and gain confidence through art projects. Whether it’s painting, sculpture, or digital design, we celebrate all forms of artistic expression.
  • SEL (Social Emotional Learning): Foster emotional intelligence, resilience, and positive relationships. Our workshops cover empathy, communication, and self-awareness.

  • Cooking and Nutrition: Understanding that food and nutrition are essential for lifelong well-being, our practical cooking classes emphasize healthy choices while teaching useful skills.

    Passionate about empowering youth and fostering leadership? Join us! Contact: Elaine Kaple, Metro Youth Educator, (217) 265-8150 | kaple@illinois.edu Fill out this form and we‘ll be in touch: go.illinois.edu/Metro4-HRockIsland

4-H Wonder Series: The Science of Awe

Welcome to our Youth Awe Series! Each month, we’ll dive into topics designed to spark your curiosity and inspire a sense of wonder about the world around us. From the mysteries of the night sky to the marvels of nature, we’ll explore the extraordinary in the everyday. This series will challenge you to look beyond the surface, ask big questions, and discover the awe-inspiring beauty that surrounds us. Get ready to embark on a journey that will open your eyes to new possibilities and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of life!

Do Good December

In this month's December Wonder Series, we explore the topic of kindness. December offers many awe-inspiring moments, from holiday lights and choir performances to winter skies and falling snow. Amid the busy season, practicing kindness can help us find awe. Acts of kindness energize us and highlight the beauty of human connection and compassion. Discover ways to experience awe through kindness this December.

Noteworthy November

In this month’s Wonder Series, we dive into the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. Our 4-H educator shares her own unforgettable experience seeing the aurora with her family right here in the Quad Cities—first in May and again with an even more brilliant display in October.

Outstanding October

This month, we're diving deeper into the powerful emotion of awe. In this edition, we’ll explore how awe can be sparked through nature, scientific discovery, shared traditions, social experiences, and even the thrill of the “spooky!” Get ready for a month of wonder and inspiration!

Spectacular September

Immersing oneself into nature is a great way to experience awe. Witnessing natural beauty, wildlife, the changing of the seasons, and astronomical events can all give us pause with moments of wonder! Explore ways to soak up awe throughout the month of September.

What is Awe?

Awe is the feeling we get when something leaves us breathless, inspired, or mystified. It gives us a sense of being in the presence of something greater than ourselves, something immeasurable. There are many ways to help facilitate the feeling of awe. Start here for an introduction to the emotion “awe” and how it can benefit youth (and people of all ages) by helping to make us happier, healthier and more connected. 
4-H Wonder Series Flyers

What is Awe

Spectacular September

Outstanding October

Noteworthy November

Do Good December