MACOMB, IL - 4-H Fair season started off with a bang on Friday, June 26, 2026, as the youngest members, the Cloverbuds, ages 5 to 7, presented their projects during the annual Cloverbud Showcase. This hands-on activity is the culmination of their year-long learning and team-building activities and begins their journey of exploration as they progress through 4-H.
Eleven Cloverbud members from McDonough County displayed their projects, ranging from doll houses and fiber arts to rock collections and desserts. The showcase allowed the youth to demonstrate their skills, creativity, and growth.
“This is one of my favorite parts of fair season. The excitement and pride on their faces says it all. The confidence they build during these years creates the foundation for a healthy and successful future,” said Beth Chatterton, Extension 4-H Program Coordinator.
The combination of hands-on learning activities and the social skills gained from being part of a team creates a positive environment where self-confidence and critical thinking skills grow, which is why programs like this remain one of the best ways to engage children and help them reach their fullest potential.
The Cloverbud program and the showcase are only possible due to the dedicated volunteers and community members who graciously give their time and expertise. The kids benefit from their interaction with these adults, and the adults report joy and hope for our future after working with them. Community building at its finest.
All Cloverbud projects will be on display with the other 4-H projects during the 4-H fair, July 12-15, 2026, at the McDonough County 4-H Building, 3022 W Jackson, Macomb, IL 61455. For more information about the Cloverbud program, please contact Beth Chatterton at chattert@illinois.edu.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.