Lee County 4-H is excited to announce the start of four Special Interest 4-H Clubs starting in January and February. Special Interest Clubs are for youth that are interested in learning more about one particular topic. Each club meets at least 6 times and allows youth to really delve into a topic. Youth that participate in these clubs become 4-H members and have the option to choose any additional project and show at the annual Lee County 4-H Fair. Clubs starting soon are Health & Wellness 4-H Club, The Food Lab, Archery, and Kids & K-9’s. All programs require pre-registration. Visit go.illinois.edu/CLWevents for registration information.

Health & Wellness 4-H Club – This 4-H Club is being run with support from the Lee County Health Department. During this club, members will learn about healthy lifestyles all while having fun! Meetings will take place 2:30-3:30 on Thursdays starting January 23 and will run through February 27. The group will meet at the Madison School Library. A short activity will be provided between the end of school and the start of the meeting. Cost is the $20 4-H membership fee. No additional supply fee.

The Food Lab – This 4-H Club will explore food science with fun experiments! 4-H members will get to play with their food and learn about chemical reactions that happen between different food items. Meetings will take place 5-6pm on Thursdays starting January 23 and will run through February 27. The group will meet at the Ashton Public Library in the kitchen. Cost is $20 4-H membership fee for non-members and $10 for current 4-H members.

Archery 4-H Club – This 4-H Club focuses on teaching decision-making, self-discipline, teamwork, self-confidence & problem solving skills all while promoting the highest standards of safety, sportsmanship, and ethical behavior. AND the kids get to learn archery from trained volunteers! This club will take place at Sauk Valley Archers on the 2nd & 4th Mondays in January, February, and March. Beginners will meet 5:30-6:30pm. Beginners may bring their own equipment or borrow provided equipment. Advanced will meet 7:00-8:00pm. Advanced participants must bring their own equipment and be comfortable shooting at least 20 yards. Cost is $20 4-H membership fee. No additional fees.

Kids & K-9’s 4-H Club – This 4-H Club helps youth train and learn with their dogs. This class introduces youth to all facets of training including obedience, rally, agility, and showmanship. This club will take place at the Granny Rose K-9 Enrichment center in Dixon on Saturdays. It will start February 8 and run through the end of June. See full list of dates & requirements online. Advanced dogs will start at 9:30am and Beginners will start at 11:00am. Beginner class is for new dogs or 4-H’ers only. Cost is $20 4-H membership fee. No additional fees.

For more information about 4-H or any of these programs, contact Kathy Book at 815-857-3525.