Illinois Extension staff spotlight: Brooke Katcher

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Each month University of Illinois Extension serving Grundy, Kankakee, and Will counties sits down with an Extension staff member to discuss their work and impact in the community.

This month's spotlight features Brooke Katcher, 4-H recruitment and engagement coordinator serving Grundy, Kankakee, and Will counties. In this role, Katcher provides leadership in developing overall strategy and best practices to support prospective and new 4-H members, and in developing engagement practices to support current youth and volunteers.

How long have you worked with Illinois Extension and what do you like most about your job?

“I’ve been working with Illinois Extension since 2013. What I value most about my role is the variety; it constantly presents new challenges and opportunities to learn, so no two days are ever the same.”

Extension is heavily focused on community impact - Can you tell us about a project you are excited about that you have completed or are currently planning that will help the community?

"While my role isn’t focused on delivering specific programs, I have the opportunity to support and assist a wide range of 4-H initiatives and programs our staff team is working on. One area I’m especially excited about is helping share the impact of 4-H in the greater community. 

I work to highlight the accomplishments of our youth and the meaningful experiences they gain throughout the year. By telling those stories and increasing visibility, I can help strengthen community awareness, engagement, and support for the program. It’s rewarding to play a part in connecting our communities to the work being done and ensuring that the growth, leadership, and dedication of our 4-H members are recognized and celebrated."

What does Extension's Mission and Vision mean to you, and how do those ideas connect with your own values or goals in your role?

"Extension’s mission and vision are really about making sure people have the support and opportunities they need to grow. Whether that's in 4-H or another program, Extension takes research and turns it into something practical that actually helps people in their everyday lives. 

In my role, that shows up most through the volunteers and youth we work with. When we support volunteers, we build mentors and leaders who make a real difference in their communities. And when young people have those positive experiences, it builds confidence and skills they carry with them long-term.  I want people to feel like they belong, that they’re capable, and that they can make an impact. 

Extension creates those opportunities, and I get to see every day how that ripple effect grows through individuals, families, and communities."

What is your favorite Extension program or resource, and why?

"My favorite Extension program is the 4-H fair. It’s rewarding to see the culmination of a year’s worth of learning, dedication, and growth on display. I enjoy watching youth showcase the projects and animals they’ve invested so much time and effort into, and there’s a real sense of pride and accomplishment that comes through in their work. What stands out most is seeing their progress from year to year, not just in their skills, but in their confidence and overall development. It really highlights the long-term impact of the 4-H experience."

Outside of work, what are some of your favorite hobbies?

"Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. My husband and I stay busy with our two energetic kids, who both share a love for farm life and animals. Much of our free time is spent with family and friends, and our family is especially passionate about showing our Percheron draft horses. It’s been rewarding to see our kids and nieces and nephew begin to take an active role in what has become a meaningful family tradition."

What does 'Beyond Ready' mean to you?

"Beyond Ready means more than simply being prepared for the next step; it’s about developing the confidence and real-world skills to take you to whatever comes next. Through 4-H, they’re gaining the ability to think for themselves, adapt, lead, and find their purpose. To me, it reflects a mindset of growth and empowerment, where young people are equipped not only for a career, but for life and the challenges and opportunities that come with it."

SOURCE: Brooke Katcher, 4-H Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator, Illinois Extension.

EDITOR: Anthony Warmack, Communications and Marketing Coordinator, Illinois Extension.

MEDIA ACCESS: For press inquiries, contact Anthony Warmack, warmacka@illinois.edu, 217-244-5813. Want to keep in touch with news from Illinois Extension? Sign up for press updates.

About Illinois 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension, administered through the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. Through hands-on learning and life-changing experiences, Illinois 4-H prepares youth to be Beyond Ready — ready for college, career, military service, entrepreneurship, and more. Young people build confidence, leadership, and resilience as they explore interests from agriculture to computer science. Independent research and national surveys confirm the powerful outcomes of 4-H: participants are 40% more likely to pursue a college degree, twice as likely to obtain technical training, and two times more likely to serve in the military. With a legacy of cultivating leaders, Illinois 4-H continues to grow the next generation who are equipped to thrive in life and work today and beyond.