Ford and Iroquois Counties presented a unique dilemma for 4-H: a disconnect between the needs of the youngest and oldest members. On one hand, Cloverbuds, eager to explore and learn, needed more engaging workshops tailored to their age and interests. On the other hand, older teens craved meaningful leadership opportunities, a void further amplified by the sparse population density across the two counties.

This seemingly disparate set of challenges was, in fact, two sides of the same coin. The lack of Cloverbud workshops created a missed opportunity to cultivate passion and inspire project ideas, potentially leading to a drop-off in interest as they transitioned to “big kid” 4-H. At the same time, the need for more structured leadership roles left older members disconnected from their younger counterparts and yearning for ways to contribute.

Thus, Cloverbud Camp was born - an innovative solution tackling both issues simultaneously by engaging these two age groups in a shared experience. The camp aimed to spark curiosity and exploration in Cloverbuds with interactive stations showcasing diverse 4-H projects while employing older teens as mentors, developing their leadership skills, and fostering connections with younger members. The result brought together the two age groups, creating a sense of community and understanding.

Teen-led stations included animal care, showmanship, entomology, horticulture, aerospace, and more.

While all Cloverbuds went home with smiles, several left with inspiration for projects to pursue upon graduation. Of the attendees, 17 are now in “big kid” 4-H and will present their projects for the first time this fall, with confidence gained at Cloverbud Camp.

Seeing curiosity in the eyes of the Cloverbuds ignited a fire within teenage volunteers, too, many eager to shape younger generations’ 4-H experiences. Since then, a group of Emerging Leaders has formed to develop more workshops and activities for younger 4-Hers. The teens left Cloverbud camp that day, wanting to give younger 4-H members the same valuable experiences they’d been given.

Cloverbud Camp helped light the spark, and now the 4-Hers in Ford and Iroquois Counties are ready to pass the torch to the next generation of 4-H leaders.

Photo caption: A cloverbud pets Rip, a calf at Cloverbud Camp.