WHEATON, Ill. – In July, 4-H members celebrated the culmination of the 4-H year with exhibits and animal shows that showcased their knowledge and skills.
“The 4-H conference judging process provides youth with valuable experience and feedback to continue growing and discovering into the next year,” said Andrea Farrier, 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator. “4-H programs and experiences strive to help youth gain a sense of belonging, develop independence, give back to their communities, and master skills.”
“Our kids have benefited from the county classes, had fun doing service projects with our club, and enjoy the excitement of presenting their projects at the fair,” said Kimberley Smith, whose family has been part of 4-H for eight years. “We really like how the whole family is involved and seeing the teens mentor the little ones.”
Her son Simon, 11, said his favorite projects this year were computer science and poultry. “I made my own video game and got to present it at the state fair,” he said. “I really like how 4-H has given me opportunities to learn coding and robotics. I want to design video games when I grow up.”
In 4-H, youth can explore scores of projects in seven larger areas of study – career and leadership development, creative arts, environmental sciences, global civic engagement, healthy living and nutrition, animal science, and STEM.
In 2020, DuPage County 4-H hosted the annual shows and project exhibits in a virtual format, but this year, the group was able to have safe, in-person experiences during a few days this July at the county fairgrounds.
“We want to whole-heartedly thank all our county 4-H show and award sponsors, superintendents, judges, and other volunteers for giving our youth such an important growth experience, especially after a tough year,” said Farrier. “Thank you also to the DuPage County Fair Association, and our 4-H members and families, for another special year.”
View the full story and the 2021 DuPage County 4-H show results by project area.
See DuPage County 4-H photos on Facebook: July 26
Find more information on 4-H opportunities in DuPage, Kane, or Kendall counties.