4-H Alumni | Illinois Extension

Blog Posts

Livestock showmanship clinic offered youth skill development for in the show ring and future careers

August 13, 2026

Raising and showing livestock may seem like a niche skill set, but in reality it offers a long list of life skills, character development, and...

My last 4-H dog show

October 3, 2025

As I stood in the ring for my final 4-H dog show, a wave of emotions hit me—pride, nostalgia, gratitude, and a little bit of sadness. This chapter of...

Old photograph of Illinois 4-H memorial camp

Before the camp flag was raised

July 25, 2025

A Reflection on the Legacy of 4-H Memorial Camp Before the rope-pulling camp game of “tug-of-war,” there was a war pulling young boys...

student in blue jacket with a yellow patch that says agricultural education

Agriculture matters: IL-EATS provides students hands-on experiences in animal production

March 24, 2025

Delia Jackson is a fan of agriculture. The COVID-19 pandemic showed her just how important and resilient the ag industry is and how vital it is for...

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News Releases

August 31, 2026

Extraordinary Fulton County 4-H volunteer honored
LEWISTOWN, Ill. - Illinois 4-H volunteers empower and prepare youth for success as the program relies on its more than 6,000 volunteers to fill key leadership and mentoring roles. Lonnie Van Pelt, a 14-year volunteer in Fulton County, was recently honored by Illinois 4-H for their selfless...

A head and shoulder shot of Dr. John Shar, a white man with gray hair and bread wearing a gray t-shirt.

August 28, 2026

Dr. John Schar named as the Henderson County Inductee to the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame
University of Illinois Extension and Henderson County 4-H are proud to recognize the induction of Dr. John Schar into the Illinois 4‑H Hall of Fame for his decades of service, leadership, and commitment to youth and agriculture in Henderson County.An important member of the local...

4-H members at 4-H Day with the Thrillbillies

July 6, 2026

First Annual 4‑H Day With the Thrillville Thrillbillies brings community together
MARION, Ill. – Youth, families, and community members gathered on June 28 at Mt. Dew Stadium in Marion for the first annual 4‑H Day with the Thrillville Thrillbillies, enjoying an afternoon filled with baseball, community, and fun.Hosted by...

person using their phone to take photos of black and white dairy calves

May 11, 2026

Bond County 4-H Announces Summer Youth Workshops in Photography and Cooking
Youth across the county are invited to build new skills and gain hands-on experience through two exciting upcoming 4-H educational programs: a Livestock Photography Workshop and 4-H Cooking 101 class.The Livestock Photography Workshop will be led by Maggie Goodson of MJ Imaging. This...

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Videos

We are 'Beyond Ready' this 4-H week

4-H members are 'Beyond Ready' for life today

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. Whether it...