News Releases

Illinois Extension celebrates outstanding programs, staff
URBANA, Ill. – Across the state, local University of Illinois Extension staff members help families, businesses, and communities identify local issues and potential solutions to those issues. Extension professionals use research-based knowledge and translate that knowledge into actions and...
A boy and girl use post hole diggers in a forest
4-H service project brushes off invasives
URBANA, Ill. – In 1830, a young Abraham Lincoln traveled from Indiana with his family to settle in Illinois. Almost two centuries later, new young leaders are following in his footsteps by preserving the state’s natural legacy at his namesake park. ...
Two young women wearing crowns and sashes hold a sign that says "Climb the Hill" while lobbying.
Illinois teen crowned national 4-H civic engagement winner
EFFINGHAM COUNTY, Ill. – An Effingham County teen has won a national 4-H award for her efforts to improve her community and help families impacted by pediatric cancer. Elizabeth Weidner, 16, of Dieterich is the winner of the 2021 ...
Graphic of tree stand safety text over photo of fall trees
Tree stand safety starts on the ground
URBANA, Ill. – With archery season opening Oct. 1, Illinois deer hunters will soon start heading to the woods.  Tree stand falls are one of the most common hunting injuries that can be prevented with some simple safety measures such as always wearing a harness and choosing a sturdy...
Graphic compilation of COVID-19 dress made of duct tape
4-H senior makes COVID-themed duct tape prom dress
RANDOLPH COUNTY, Ill. – When Illinois 4-H member Peyton Manker started designing a prom dress made with duct tape in January, the high school senior thought it would be a fun challenge and possibly win her a scholarship. A few months...
Working under her father Dominic’s watchful eye, Evie Ribbing cross cuts a sheet of veneer core bamboo using a saw.
4-H woodworker shines with Sawdust & Sparkles business
From her perch on a stool and behind the glint of safety glasses, 12-year-old Evie Ribbing has a good view of her dad's woodshop. But the buzzing table saw she's operating has her full attention, as it should.  “Measure twice, cut once,” is a rule this...
Dakota Larimore-Lamb with 4-H mentor Tom Bates
Mentoring world-class citizens
URBANA, Ill. – At age 10, the perfect day for Dakota Larimore-Lamb was hanging out with his dad, Tom, doing one of the things they loved most: trekking into the woods on a clear, crisp day for target practice. Despite his enthusiasm for the sport, Dakota's early target shooting efforts...
Illinois 4-H member mentors younger student
Illinois 4-H member leads youth STEM education efforts
URBANA, Ill. – Illinois 4-H member Aja Capel of Urbana, Ill., is on a mission to help minority students – especially girls – consider careers in STEM. Her efforts are gaining a lot more traction, thanks to a recent video profile by NBC...