SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Abe Lincoln Shooters 4-H currently offers shooting disciplines of air pistol and archery. The Sangamon County program is guided by Certified 4-H Shooting Sports Coordinators. The Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports program is part of the National 4-H Shooting Sports Program which sets the standards and guides the curriculum. The focus of all 4-H programs is the development of youth as individuals and as responsible, productive citizens.

The Sangamon 4-H Shooting Sports program stands out as an example. The activities of the program and the support of caring adult leaders provide young people with opportunities to develop life skills, self-worth, conservation ethics, and the responsible handling of air pistols and bows. Youth gain knowledge and build life skills such as responsibility, decision making, discipline, goal setting, teamwork, and safety. The six-part air pistol series was offered to youth ages 10-18 in February-March 2024.

During the final session, 4-H members were able to participate in an exhibition shoot in which they kept score based off the location on the target.

• Elsa Cook of Springfield received the Champion Ribbon & Medallion.
• Sarah Simpson of Springfield received the Reserve Champion Ribbon.
• Lauren Parkins of Springfield received a Blue Ribbon.

If you are interested in learning how to participate in Abe Lincoln 4-H Shooters contact the University of Illinois Extension Office in Sangamon County at 217-782-4617.

ABOUT ILLINOIS 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences.4-H grows true leaders, youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow. The hands-on approach in 4-H gives young people guidance, tools, and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research confirms the unparalleled impact of the 4-H experience, demonstrating that young people are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.