Legacy of Leadership Scholarship  Fifteen $1,000 scholarships are offered to members who have demonstrated overall mastery and leadership in the 4-H program. You must have been a member for at least 5 years and attending either a 4-year university, community college, or trade school. The scholarship is open to high school seniors and college freshmen.  Finalists must submit a video of your 4-H accomplishments.

Livestock Scholarship  $1,000 scholarship opportunity for youth who have demonstrated project mastery in their livestock area. Open to current high school seniors who have completed a minimum of 3 years in a Livestock Project and plan to pursue a college degree in the agriculture industry.

Key Award  The 4-H Key Award focus is on Leadership, Community Service, and Mentoring. Applicants must be 16-19 year of age as of September 1 of the current year. Members may only win this award once in their lifetime.Completed application must be to your local Extension office by October 11.

4-H LCP Award  The purpose of the 4-H LCP award is to reward members exhibiting outstanding leadership, citizenship, cooperation, and professionalism during the past 4-H program year (September 1 through August 31). Applicants must be 17-19 years old as of December 1 of the current year. This award may only be won once in a lifetime. Must be submitted to your local Extension office by their stated deadline of October 11.

4-H State Award Application  4-Hers who are 12-18 years old will use this applications for either county or state awards consideration.Please note however, only 4-Hers who are 15-18 years old may apply for state awards. Completed applications must be submitted to your local Extension Office by the October 11 deadline.  (on state website - scroll to bottom of page)

SAMPLE Illinois State 4-H Award Application

SAMPLE Illinois State 4-H Award Essay

I Dare You Award  The "I Dare You" Leadership Award was first offered in 1941 by William H. Danforth. Mr. Danforth was a successful businessman who dared young people to achieve their highest potential and to influence others through lives of leadership and service. As a civic leader, he helped found the American Youth Foundation in 1925. The belief then as it is today is that each individual can make a difference. The “I Dare You Award” recognizes those who, with a little encouragement, are ready to see themselves as leaders- young adults who are ready to take the dare. A certificate and book will be awarded. 4-H members must be at least 14 years old and be nominated by their 4-H club leader. Members who demonstrate personal integrity, lead well-rounded lives and possess a willingness to assume responsibility should be considered for this award. 4-H Club leaders should nominate youth for this award who are “emerging” leaders– those youth who have the qualities and the abilities to lead, but who may not yet recognize or act on their leadership potential. This award can only be received once during a members 4-H career. Two award winners may be selected annually from each county. Forms are due to the Extension Office by the deadline. 

IL 4-H Individual Experience Award  New IL 4-H Recognition System.