4-H

Events
More Events

Blog Posts
two girls show a sheep and goat
Livestock showmanship clinic offered youth skill development for in the show ring and future careers
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...
kids putting puzzle together with lady
4-H Club Spotlight: Tazewell Country 4-H Club offers unique learning experiences
4-H meetings are more than just a regular monthly meeting. Just ask the members of the Tazewell Country 4-H club. Located primarily in Hopedale...
4-H members
Celebrating independence through 4-H youth development
The greatest gifts we can give youth in 4-H go beyond a champion banner, plaque, or even letterman jacket. Confidence in their own abilities is the...
Group holding Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports banner
Big crowds, big skills, and a whole lot of safety
4-H Shooting Sports: Big Crowds, Big Skills, and a Whole Lot of SafetyIf you were anywhere near Grand Island, Nebraska in June 2026, you felt the...
More Blogs

News Releases
a child sitting on the floor playing with toys
Youth can build skills and gain confidence through free Childcare Clinic
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Many youth regularly help care for younger siblings, family members, or children in their communities but may not have the knowledge or experience to feel confident in that role. Providing youth with practical childcare skills, safety information, and age-appropriate...
Illuminated Illinois 4 H sign
4-H members shine at Illinois State Fair
DECATUR, Ill. — The Illinois State Fair welcomed 101 enthusiastic 4-H members from DeWitt, Macon, and Piatt counties to the Orr Building on August 9 for a full day of general project judging. Participants proudly showcased their hard work and creativity through a wide range of exhibits, which...
Lonnie Van Pelt
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...
More News

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...

Winter Ice Safety

How can you know that ice is safe to walk on? Is old ice safer than new ice? Curt Sinclair, 4-H youth development Extension specialist, walks you through how to stay safe on the ice this winter, covering everything you need to know for winter ice safety including how to make homemade ice picks...
More Videos

Staff
Mark becker

Mark Becker

4-H Youth Development Extension Specialist, Food Systems
More Staff