OREGON, Ill. - Ogle County 4-H clubs celebrated National 4-H Week from October 6-12. National 4-H Week originated during World War II when the National 4-H Camp in Washington, DC, was postponed due to the conflict. In 1942, Ohio State 4-H Leader W.H. Palmer introduced State Mobilization Week to focus 4-H members on national defense efforts. This initiative, adopted by the Federal Extension Service, evolved from supporting the armed forces to promoting rural youth involvement and reporting on 4-H’s contributions to conservation and production goals.

By the mid-1940s, National 4-H Achievement Week in November showcased 4-H successes and recruited new members. After the war, this became National 4-H Week, focusing on publicizing the expanded 4-H program, encouraging youth participation, recruiting volunteers, recognizing parental support, and reporting on achievements. Initially held in the spring, National 4-H Week has been observed in the first full week of October since 1968.

The Ogle Jolly 4-H Club promoted 4-H by showcasing a window display at Ladders of Learning Cardinal Corner in Stillman Valley. Members also recorded a service announcement at 102.3, The Coyote radio station in Rochelle, and wore their 4-H shirts to school to show their pride and spirit. The club also made a float and participated in the Stillman Valley Fall Festival Parade on September 29.

PHOTO: The Ogle Jolly 4-H Club had a float in the the Stillman Valley Fall Festival Parade. (Submitted by Kaitlyn Adams, Ogle Jolly Reporter)
WRITER: Kaitlyn Adams, Ogle Jolly Reporter