State 4-H Office

Illinois 4-H'ers excel in 2026 state shooting sports competitions
URBANA, Ill. — A total of 167 Illinois 4-H youth recently showcased their marksmanship skills in statewide competitions across the shooting sports disciplines of rifle, archery, pistol, and shotgun. These events serve as culminating experiences where participants can measure the progress they...

That Grundy County farm kid 4-H believed in? He’s now its director, working to make the world brighter
URBANA, Ill. — From his front porch in Bloomington-Normal, with his dog Benson lying off to the side, University of Illinois Extension’s assistant dean and director of Illinois 4-H reflects on his...

Youth-led initiative creates local action, statewide change 
Springfield, Ill. – Illinois 4-H youth across the state came together to make a difference in their communities through the annual Illinois 4-H Can Make a Difference Food Drive, held Aug. 14-...

Illinois 4-H staff member wins national award for innovative dual credit and credentialing program
WASHINGTON, DC – In Illinois, rural and under-resourced schools often face barriers to offering dual credit courses and industry-recognized credentials due to shortages of qualified instructors, limited Career and Technical Education (CTE) infrastructure, and fragmented connections...