SPRINGFIELD, IL — Illinois 4-H teens put their leadership skills to the test as they communicated the value and impact of Illinois 4-H with state legislators as a part of 4-H Legislative Connection on Feb.7 and 8.

Legislative Connection provides Illinois 4-H teens a unique opportunity to promote the Illinois 4-H program to elected state officials and learn about the state legislative process. Youth share their personal 4-H stories with legislators and discuss the benefits of 4-H and local University of Illinois Extension programming in their home communities.

The participating youth are between the ages of 14 and 19, have completed Speaking for Illinois 4-H training, and serve on a statewide leadership team.

“These 4-H members receive advanced training at Speaking for Illinois 4-H ahead of the event,” says University of Illinois Extension 4-H specialist Patty McGlaughlin. “At 4-H Legislative Connection, 4-H members then visit state legislators to tell their 4-H stories and educate the legislators about the benefits of 4-H and University of Illinois Extension.”

This year’s participants included: Bella Binkley, McLean County; Katelyn Davis, White County; A.J. Harris, Morgan County; Emma Hughes, Montgomery County; Saralynn Joiner, Macoupin County; Asher Munar, Kendall County; Willard Rozanas, Boone County; Andrea Schaffnit, Adams County; Lainey Sullivan, Hancock County; Ross Vancil, Henderson County; and Lance Woolam, Adams County.

Youth book appointments with state leaders and communicate the value and impact of 4-H using persuasive speaking techniques along with data and examples as they tell their 4-H story to legislators.

“This event is important because legislators have the opportunity to hear from the youth in their districts,” says McGlaughlin. “Through hands-on engagement with the state legislative process Illinois 4-H members get the chance to build bridges with elected officials, fostering a future where youth voices resonate in the chambers.”

An additional Legislative Connection session will also be held May 16-17. Those wishing to know more about the event may visit the Legislative Connection webpage.

About Illinois 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences.4-H grows true leaders, youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow. The hands-on approach in 4-H gives young people guidance, tools and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research confirms the unparalleled impact of the 4-H experience, demonstrating that young people are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs. 

For Further Information, Contact:

Writer:  Carissa Nelson, Media Communications Manager, 4-H State Office, carissa7@illinois.edu