Our Illinois 4-H Story 2025

As I stood in the ring for my final 4-H dog show, a wave of emotions hit me—pride, nostalgia, gratitude, and a little bit of sadness. This chapter of my life, filled with so many unforgettable moments, is coming to a close, and it’s hard to put into words just how much it’s meant to me.As the day...

By any measure, the recent series of 4-H Shooting Sports events attended by the best 4-H shooting sports competitors in the State of Illinois brought some jaw dropping results.  These competitions are held each year in late August and throughout September   The shear number of shots...

A Reflection on the Legacy of 4-H Memorial Camp Before the rope-pulling camp game of “tug-of-war,” there was a war pulling young boys to fight in the Pacific from Illinois.Before a scratched knee from a camper sprinting to first base, there was a bloody chevron removed from a soldier...

Illinois 4-H, built on the powerful philosophy of “Learn by Doing,” is on a mission to rekindle young people’s connection to nature through hands-on experiences in hunting, fishing, conservation, and beyond.Why the Outdoors MatterResearch consistently shows that youth exposed to...

This summer, don’t just look at art, experience it! Whether it’s walking through bustling art fairs, repurposing summer treasures, of creating art outside, July is the perfect time to explore new ways to connect with creativity. This month’s tips are all about diving into art in ways that are...

Tough love is hard to give and even harder to receive. But for the white-tailed doe that gives birth to twin fawns each May in Illinois, discipline is necessary for survival.There’s a common myth that newborn fawns have no scent, making them invisible to predators. While this isn’t entirely true,...

Retaining teens in 4-H isn’t just about keeping them busy, it’s about giving them purpose, agency, and support. When we help young people take ownership of their growth, they are more likely to stay engaged, lead confidently, make a difference in their communities, and inspire others.This aligns...

As the days grow longer, summer offers the perfect canvas for creativity. Whether experimenting with color, dancing barefoot in the grass, or creating a vision board for summer, this season invites you to reconnect with what makes you you. In this post, we’re sharing fun, accessible tips...

As fair season approaches, showcasing your artwork at a local 4-H fair or show is an excellent opportunity to share your creativity and passion with your community. In this blog, we will explore essential tips and tricks to help you present your art like a pro. From selecting the perfect pieces to...

National Poetry Month, observed in April, celebrates poetry in all its forms while highlighting the importance of poets and poetry in our culture. Poetry offers a fun and imaginative way to play with words and emotions, whether through reading, writing, or performing.This month’s tip series...

With the arrival of spring, and nature waking up with color, texture, and inspiration, March is the perfect time to step outside, explore, and use nature as an artistic medium. This month, here are some fun, easy, and economical ways to blend art and nature. Make paintbrushes from...

February is Black History Month which is a time to celebrate the rich contributions of Black artists, activists, and culture shapers. The following tips for youth will help engage with visual arts while honoring Black history. Discover Black artists: Research influential...

Creating art for youth can provide a variety of benefits ranging from stress relief, self-expression, mindfulness, problem-solving skills, instilling patience and perseverance, and fostering innovation.  Even with all the benefits art creation can offer, it can still be intimidating knowing...