Clinton County 4‑H Scholarship applications due March 15.

BREESE, Ill. — The Clinton County Extension 4-H Education Foundation is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Clinton County Extension 4-H Foundation Scholarship. This annual scholarship program is designed to encourage and support the county’s youth as they pursue higher education, offering up to $8,000 annually, awarded at the discretion of the Foundation Board of Directors.

The scholarship is open to Clinton County 4-H members and alumni who have demonstrated active participation in local 4-H.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled in 4-H for six (6) years or more, including at least four (4) years in Clinton County. (Cloverbud years do not count.)
• Exhibit at least one project per year at a county-level show opportunity.
• Be a high school senior, high school graduate, or an undergraduate student enrolled in a community college, university, or trade school in any state.
• Applicants may receive this scholarship a maximum of two times.

Where to Access Applications

Applications are available:

• At the Clinton County Extension Office
• Through Clinton County high schools
• Online at go.illinois.edu/CCFoundationScholarship

Application Materials

All application materials must be submitted by the close of business on March 15 to be considered. Materials may be delivered to:

Illinois Extension Office — Clinton County
1163 N. 4th St.
Breese, IL 62230
Attn: Clinton County Extension Foundation

Late materials will not be accepted. A complete application includes:

1. Scholarship Application Form
   • First‑time applicants: A 250–500 word essay describing their 4-H experience, including life skills gained, achievements, awards, leadership positions, and years of involvement.
   • Second‑year applicants: A 250–500 word essay explaining how their 4-H experiences relate to their college education and current career path.
   • An official transcript, submitted directly to the Illinois Extension Office by the scholarship deadline.
   • Proof of acceptance into a post‑high‑school educational program.
2. Two Letters of Recommendation
   • One from the applicant’s 4-H leader.
   • One from a high school or higher education faculty member who has significantly influenced the applicant’s education or career direction.
   • Letters may be submitted online or delivered in a sealed envelope with the writer’s signature across the back. All recommendation letters must arrive by the March 15 deadline.

Selection Process

Scholarships will be awarded based on merit, determined through review of the application materials. Applicants should also plan to participate in an interview held during the last week of March. Interviews are required for scholarship consideration. For questions, call the Illinois Extension Office at 618-526-4551.