4-H Youth Development
In 4-H, you learn by doing and you usually have a pretty great time while you're doing it! Want to know more about what your 4-H experience might look like?
- Create and build things. Whether you're inspired by robots and drones or photography and recipe cards, our programs give you the tools and the opportunities to create, imagine, and build.
- Travel and see the world around you. In 4-H, you can travel across the state and around the world if that's what you're in to. Dream big and discover the world through our programs.
- Explore careers that interest you. In 4-H, career exploration is more than just reading about possible jobs, it involves rolling up your sleeves and trying it on for size.
- Make new friends. From clubs to camps to field trips, in 4-H you'll meet new people and experience new social and cultural events. It's pretty easy to form lasting friendships when they're based on shared interests and experiences.
- Teach and inspire kids. 4-H helps prepare youth for roles as leaders in their classrooms, communities, and future careers. We'll help you develop the skills you need to work with youth in your community and help them launch their own 4-H journey.
- Help others. A core aspect of 4-H is learning to serve with and for those around us. 4-H clubs create opportunities for members to find meaningful ways to impact the people and neighborhoods they live in.
- Meet cool people and earn cool prizes. Who wouldn't love the chance to meet and learn from some of the best athletes, actors, scientists, and artists in their fields? Our network of professional contacts is deep and wide - you never know who might show up at a 4-H event!
4-H is a place where you can find where you belong. It's where you decide what matters to you and learn about things that interest you. And, it's the place where you serve in the community where you live.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Interested in learning more about 4-H but not sure where to start? Complete this interest survey to find the 4-H group that's just right for you. If you're already a member, you'll find everything you're looking for in the links below.
County 4-H Programs
10 Ways to Volunteer with Illinois 4-H
4-H Registration and State Events
Sign Up Today!
In 4-H, you get to be you! We welcome everyone from all backgrounds, with all interests, wherever you live. We'll help you learn more about the things you like to do. We'll provide opportunities for you to meet mentors and kids who share your interests. Travel to exciting new places. Check out careers. Explore the world around you while you build up the community where you live. All that and more awaits you in Illinois 4-H.
Mark your calendar
Find out information on the latest statewide events that are coming up! From photography to cooking, camps to leadership conferences; there is something for every interest.
Join the 4-H Alumni Association
Illinois 4-H is seeking to create a lifelong connection to our 4-H alumni through a free membership in the Illinois 4-H Alumni Association. The Illinois 4-H Alumni Association was established in 2016 and is building a network of 4-H alumni throughout IL.
Check Out These Local Events & Workshops
2026 Illinois 4-H Robotics Challenge: ArchaeoBot
Get ready for an exciting day at the Annual 4-H Robotics Showcase! Spectators are invited to witness the incredible talents of our 4-H members as they compete in the 2026 Illinois 4-H Robotics Challenge, ArchaeoBot.
Fair Entry
Are you showing at your County Fair? Illinois 4-H fair entries for 2026 are submitted online via FairEntry (distinct from 4-H Online). Families must create a FairEntry account to register projects. Review project requirements, complete entries, and submit them before the deadline!
Fish and Wildlife Workshop
Step into the world of wildlife with Kelly Ishmael, U.S. Wildlife Inspector, for an unforgettable, hands‑on experience that brings the wonders, and challenges of global wildlife conservation to life.
Kelly will open her trunk of wildlife parts and products, giving you the rare chance to see and touch real items encountered in the field. Along the way, she’ll share stories, insights, and eye‑opening facts from her work protecting species around the world.
Jesse Davis