News Releases

A horse in the distance behind grass
Youth test their equine knowledge and skills in state contest
Urbana, Ill. – In 4-H, learning about horses means much more than learning to ride. Young people with a passion for horses participated in recent statewide educational contests related to the equine industry. University of Illinois Extension’s 4-H educational programs enhance members’ knowledge...
A women speaking in front of a group
Youth in public speaking contest learn skills that last a lifetime
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. –  4-H excels in preparing youth to speak well and confidently, and it is a skill that serves members for a lifetime. Youth from across the state recently came together to put their public speaking skills to the test during the Illinois 4-H State Public Speaking Contest held at...
A close up of a cow in a field
Youth quick recall tested at state dairy contest
Bloomington, Ill. – 4-H members had their knowledge and quick recall of information tested at the Illinois 4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl contest on Feb. 26 at the Chateau Hotel and Conference Center in Bloomington.  Fifty 4-H members from 10 counties throughout Illinois came together to participate in...
a group of women holding up awards
4-H youth honored for career achievements at awards ceremony
URBANA, Ill. – 4-H youth across the state were honored for their career achievements in the 4-H program at the 4-H Celebration of Excellence held April 9. The State 4-H Experience Award offers recognition for members who took part in activities and events in the...
Teens looking at a comic
Teens ready to take on new statewide leadership role
Urbana, Ill. – Five Illinois teens have a new way to make their voices heard on a statewide platform through the Illinois 4-H Youth Leadership Team. The team is comprised of 20 4-H members and recent alumni under the age of 21 who coordinate and assist with statewide 4-H activities....
An open field with sunlight
Test field scouting skills with high school Crop Scouting Competition
URBANA, Ill. – A farmer knowing how corn or soybean crops are progressing or being able to identify an insect can mean the difference between a profitable harvest and a bad year. The youth Illinois Crop Scouting Competition puts teams of agriculture students to the test. This hands-on contest in...
Youth ready to train 6,000 peers in ag innovation
URBANA, Ill. – 4-H youth from six states convened at the 2022 National 4-H Council Ag Innovators Experience on the University of Illinois campus Feb. 4-6. Illinois 4-H staff and University of Illinois...
Find Your Spark During Spring Break with 4-H Grundy County
MORRIS, Ill. – Learning by doing and trying new things is a great way to engage and excite young learners.  University of Illinois Extension invites youth to participate in the upcoming Spring Break with 4-H program. The Spring Break program will spark youth interest in a wide variety of...
Submit questions in advance for virtual 4-H Town Hall
URBANA, Ill. – In anticipation of the upcoming Illinois 4-H Town Hall, 4-H volunteers, members, partners, and alumni are invited to submit questions. The Town Hall begins at 7 p.m. March 1. The Town Hall, hosted by the Illinois 4-H...
4-H Foundation awards $45,000 in scholarships
Urbana, Ill. – The career achievements of Illinois 4-H members are being celebrated with $45,000 in scholarships awarded by the Illinois 4-H Foundation. The scholarships are awarded to five Illinois 4-H members in nine focus categories and are based on merit and a demonstrated standard...
4-H youth honored for career achievements
Urbana, Ill. – 4-H youth across the state have been honored for their career achievements in the 4-H program. The State 4-H Experience Award offers recognition for members who...