The public is invited to celebrate the accomplishments of local youth during the upcoming Jefferson County 4-H General Projects Show and a full week of 4-H livestock and project events at the Jefferson-Franklin County Fairgrounds on the Rend Lake College campus.
The Jefferson County 4-H General Projects Show will be held Saturday, July 18, beginning at 8 a.m. at the United Way of South Central Illinois in Mt. Vernon.
The General Projects Show highlights the creativity, skills, and achievements of Jefferson County 4-H members. Youth will exhibit hands-on projects they have worked on throughout the year, including crafts, photography, STEM, foods, home and family projects, and much more. Through these experiences, 4-H members develop confidence, communication abilities, leadership, and valuable life skills.
In addition to the General Projects Show, the public is encouraged to attend the Jefferson County 4-H livestock and project events at the Jefferson-Franklin County Fairgrounds on the Rend Lake College campus.
Event Schedule
July 20
- Swine Show — 8 a.m.
- Beef and Dairy Shows — immediately following the Swine Show
July 21
- Sheep Show — 8 a.m.
- Goat Show — immediately following the Sheep Show
July 22
- Rabbit and Poultry Show — 8 a.m.
- Master Showmanship Contest — 10 a.m. (or immediately following the Rabbit and Poultry Show)
- Crop Show — 1 p.m.
- 4-H Tractor Driving Contest — 2:30 p.m.
- Youth Livestock Auction — 6 p.m.
“These events showcase the dedication, knowledge, and hard work of our local 4-H members,” said Kristen Buttrum, 4-H Coordinator. “Whether youth are exhibiting a photography project, showing livestock, competing in tractor driving, or participating in showmanship contests, they are developing skills that will benefit them for years to come.”
Community members are encouraged to attend, support local youth, and learn more about the positive impact of the 4-H program. Admission is free, and all are welcome.
For more information about Jefferson County 4-H, contact the Illinois Extension in Jefferson County at 618-242-0780.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.