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Budding Gardeners Cultivate Skills and Compassion in Jr. Gardener Special Interest Club

four girls sitting at a table with their basket of veggies

DIXON, Ill. — The Lee County 4-H Program is thrilled to announce another season of the Jr. Gardener Special Interest (SPIN) Club, a club aimed at empowering young minds to explore the wonders of gardening, while also making a positive impact in the community.

Under the guidance of experienced Master Gardeners, participants in the Jr. Gardener SPIN Club will embark on a journey of discovery, learning the ins and outs of planning, prepping, and caring for a garden throughout the summer.

A portion of the produce harvested by our young gardeners will be donated to support those in our community facing food insecurity. By combining hands-on learning with a spirit of giving, the Jr. Gardener SPIN Club aims to cultivate not only gardens but also a sense of social responsibility.

Participants will have the exciting opportunity to showcase their gardening achievements at the Lee County 4-H Show in July. The event promises to be a celebration of green thumbs and creativity, where our Jr. Gardeners can proudly display the fruits (and vegetables) of their labor.

When: Tuesdays, April 16- July 30, 4 PM- 5:30 PM

Where: Dixon, IL

Ages: 8-18, as of September 1, 2023

Cost: $10 for enrolled 4-H members, $30 for non-members ($10 supply fee, $20 enrollment fee)

Register by April 9, 2024 

About Extension

Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities. Illinois Extension is part of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.