Freeport, ILL [September 28, 2021]—It’s time to show your green clover pride as National 4-H Week is celebrated October 3-9, 2021. This year, University of Illinois Extension – Stephenson County 4-H has set some big plans to highlight the program, it’s youth, and volunteers throughout the week.
“The theme is ‘Find Your Spark,’” explains Stephenson County 4-H Program Coordinator Brenda Heimann, “And that’s just what we’re going to do! We’re focusing on sharing the power of 4-H and how that passion ignites within our youth and continues to grow with them. There’s no smoldering the flames here.”
Illinois 4-H is open to all youth ages 5 to 18 years old. Youth are empowered and prepared for success through the various programming available—from monthly club activities to projects and educational programs that are specific to an interest. Leadership development is also an important factor in 4-H and through the many volunteers, 4-H helps shape youth into productive leaders.
“During National 4-H Week, we celebrate our members and volunteers and all that they do,” summarizes Stephenson County Director Margaret Larson. “As we promote 4-H in our local communities, we want to invite everyone to learn more about their local clubs and consider attending a meeting or event. 4-H is for everyone,” she adds.
To celebrate National 4-H week, families can participate in a multi-county scavenger hunt using the mobile app, “GooseChase.” “It’s really a neat idea,” says Heimann, “families can spend time together searching for various items listed in the scavenger hunt. They take photos and/or videos and submit them for points on the app. Stephenson County will be in competition with Jo Daviess and Winnebago Counties—and of course, our county is going to win!” exclaims Heimann.
Heimann has other small activities planned throughout the week for youth to complete and can win prizes from doing including making a kindness rock, helping someone, making a card for a nursing home resident and of course a dress up day!
The Stephenson County 4-H also has digital billboards and yard signs advertising National 4-H Week. You can see updates throughout the week by visiting the Facebook page, University of Illinois Extension- JoDaviess/ Stephenson/ Winnebago 4-H. Participants are recommended to use the hashtag #FindYourSpark or #National4HWeek as they share their 4-H activities on social media.
For more information about 4-H in Stephenson County or volunteering, contact Brenda Heimann, Stephenson County 4-H and Youth Development Program Coordinator, at the University of Illinois Extension office by phone: 815-235-4125, email: bheimann@illinois.edu or by visiting go.illinois.edu/jsw.