2019 Illinois 4-H CloverSeed Annual Report

ILLINOIS 4-H

2018-19 ANNUAL REPORT

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL, CONSUMER & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

4-H YOUTH AFFILIATIONS*

GROWTH MINORITY HISPANIC

-

grade K 2

grade 3 5

grade 6—8

grade 9 12

Post or Not in School

*YOUTH IN MULTIPLE PROGRAMS MAY BE COUNTED MORE THAN ONCE

4-H YOUTH PARTICIPANTS*

4-H CLUB MEMBERS*

4-H CLUB VOLUNTEERS

is empowering and preparing Illinois youth for success. I invite you to read this year’s stories of young people inspired to lead change and serve others in their communities.

. They are the foundations on which 4-H club, educational program, and outreach effort is based in Illinois 4-H. We rely on the generous support of our donors, volunteers, and partners. Thank you for answering the call to serve with your gifts, your time, and your talents.

University of Illinois Extension Assistant Dean and Director, Illinois 4-H

4-H youth know their can make a big impact on and are doing their part to .

4-H YOUTH TO EXPAND LANDSCAPE BIODIVERSITY.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

There’s a buzz in Illinois 4-H, a buzz made by and the 4-H members trying to . At first thought, it might seem strange to want to save the creatures responsible for stinging us on a summer day, but through the

, youth now know one out of every three bites of food we take is only made possible through the work of pollinators. Without them, the produce aisle at the grocery store would be bare. More than 90% of all the world’s flowering plants require pollinators.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee (center, top photo) has joined Illinois 4-H and the National 4-H Council in promoting . She worked with 4-H participants from Champaign County schools at 4-H Memorial Camp to establish a pollinator-friendly garden.

Youth know how to manage landscapes to increase biodiversity that benefits monarchs, pollinators, and other wildlife.

, our plates would be empty

| Olympic legend Jackie JoynerKersee joined Franklin Middle School youth to start pollinator-friendly plants at 4-H Memorial Camp. Photos: Judy Mae Bingman.

4-H projects focus on environmental stewardship.

With the help of Sinsinawa Mound and the Coffey Bee Ranch, 4-H members in Jo Daviess County are creating havens for bees. The youth check for mites, separate and purify honey, and keep hives healthy. Photo: Angela Miller.

Rock Island and Mercer County 4-H citizen scientists are making barred owl nest boxes. They are testing which box design (with or without a roof) owls prefer. The members built the boxes, then placed them about 20 meters apart in owl habitats. Illinois 4-H hopes to have 40 sets of boxes around the state to share with Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Photo: Becky Buckrop.

Timmerman.

 the right lure to use to catch bass.

 how to handle fish if you’re just fishing for fun.

 how to pinch the barb so it doesn’t hurt the fish when I’m releasing him.

 how to help others catch fish alongside me.

 100% of participants said they now know why it’s important to protect natural resources, such as fish and waterways.

 85% of participants say they now want to do more to take care of the environment in their community.

Students from Champaign County are learning about aquatic ecosystems by using a pond-study net to scoop out aquatic organisms, such as dragonfly nymphs, water boatman, fairy shrimp, tadpoles, crawfish, and damselflies, from the bottom of the lake at 4-H Memorial Camp. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

4-H youth grow food to help sustain the wildlife of the park while adding to the ecosystem of the garden.

4-H YOUTH

HABITATS AND INSPIRE OTHERS TO ENJOY NATURE.

WILDLIFE

Photo: Anita Wilkinson.

while tending the 4-H Great Learning Garden

May Bach leads the where the 4-H members grow produce to feed . Their efforts last year yielded 350 pounds, which provided diverse diets for the wildlife. Produce includes sweet potatoes, pumpkins, grapes, herbs, strawberries, blueberries, flowers, zucchini, and gourds.

4-H members create art pieces for the garden to create a welcoming environment to park visitors. Bowling balls are painted to look like lady bugs, bricks are painted featuring the names of children’s books, and a butterfly bench allows visitors a place to enjoy the garden features.

In 2020, the club will apply the Hugelkulter method of planting in , then covering them with soil.

4-H YOUTH TO FEED THE WORLD’S GROWING POPULATION.

Photo: Emily Smith.

ANIMAL SCIENCE

at state dairy quiz bowl contest.

Whether doing chores or riding in the car, 11-year-old Drew Lueking of Centralia and his dad, Doug, rattle through dairy facts in preparation for the Illinois Doug, a Holstein breeder and ag teacher, serves as volunteer leader for Drew and other 4 members in Clinton and Bond counties.

. Drew was part of the winning team in the junior division. Although winning is good, Drew’s mother, Sheila, says it’s more important that young people are able to especially as financial struggles hit independent dairy farmers. “As farm numbers diminish, the people who are left have to be exceptional in their knowledge of the industry.”

Conner Erbsen, Carroll County 4-H alum, studies agronomy and technology at Iowa State. He knows the dairy industry is facing tough times,

Youth can address critical issues facing the ag industry and advocate for changes that improve farm economy.

4-H projects focus on animal science.

| Tazewell County

Photo: Emily Smith. |

Illinois State Fair

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

Dave Fischer started working in Extension in 1971. Even after his retirement in 2010, he continued coordinating the 4-H dairy program and coaching national teams. With the 2019 season complete, Dave is handing off a program steeped in success and respect. His lifelong work was celebrated during the state fair dairy show, but the veteran dairyman insists the focus be on the growth of the dairy cattle program, including the four National Dairy Quiz Bowl championships and the $114,000 college scholarships awarded to youth in 4-H dairy projects.

The Illinois 4-H Foundation supports the animal science teams in national contests and the college scholarships.

4 National Championships

21 Top-5 Finishes / 30 years

19 Top-10 Finishes / 25 years

5 Top-5 Finishes / 25 years

$114,000 awarded to Illinois 4-H dairy project members. 570 participants with 114 winners.

| ILLINOIS

ILLINOIS STATE FAIR DAIRY SHOW | Dave’s work in the Illinois 4program was celebrated at the 2019 Illinois State Fair. Mae Bingman.

STATE FAIR DAIRY SHOW. (left to right) Dave Fischer, Zachary Paul, Ainsley Kratochvil, Briley Lenkaitis, and Tony Graves, president of the Prairie Farms Dairy Board of Directors, sponsor. The contest was created in 1996 by Dave and is funded through the Illinois 4-H Foundation. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

 35% work 16 or more hours a week

 18% work 11 to 15 hours a week

 27% work 6 to 10 hours a week

 14% work 1 to 5 hours a week

The Illinois State 4-H Leadership Conference began an incredible journey for Lee County 4-H member Nicole Hill. “4-H has helped me and has given me the opportunities to do those things.”

She attended the conference, courtesy of Tractor Supply Company. Funds from the annual 4-H Paper Clover campaign are used by the Illinois 4-H

Foundation to promote leadership and camping in Illinois. “I learned how important teamwork and leadership are,” Nicole says.

Nicole earned a spot on the Illinois State 4-H Livestock Ambassador Team. “My work as a livestock ambassador has helped me realize what I love to do, and that’s

” Nicole says.

LEE COUNTY 4-H

schools students hours

have taught this program 10 or more years have taught this program 5 to 10 years are teaching embryology for the first time of teachers want the program again

“This is the best day of my life.”

For many urban youth, Extension’s 4-H embryology programs are their first, and sometimes only, exposure to the animal life cycle. And though the curriculum teaches scientific investigation and food production, the real lessons are often unexpected and life-changing. In the :

 One egg took two full days to hatch. It was a great lesson on and

 A lead to discussion on why he didn’t make it. Some believed he starved, while others tried to blame others. They finally understood he was .

 Several children had never of any kind, so it was a great first-time experience for them.

 Hatching chicks really helped with my

 Nothing is more soothing to my students than the coming from our brooder box. It was heartwarming.

 We had a chick that had trouble balancing and fell over when running. The kids named him ‘crash’ and . He improved when we took him to the farm, and the farmer wrote to tell us he was doing fine. How sweet!

Winning the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest has its perks. In addition to the hardware, national champions compete in the World Livestock Judging Contest in Scotland.

“The room got really quiet as everyone realized the Illinois and Virginia teams were tied at the end of regular competition,” says Clay Sundberg. Illinois had a higher score in oral reasons, thus earning the national championship.

The team includes (left to right) Coach Gracia Ramp, Mason Engnell, Clay Sundberg, Nicole Haverback, and Jenna Wheeler. The Illinois 4-H Foundation supports the national livestock judging teams.

Photo left: Emily Smith.

between food producer and consumer.

Donors of the Illinois 4-H Foundation provide to 4-H Illini Summer Academies.

hosts 35 academy students each year.

|

The beef barns at University of Illinois hold many for 4-H Illini Summer Academy participants, including a chance to stick your gloved arm through a cannula surgically inserted in the side of a steer. Since 70% of the digestion happens in a cow’s rumen, clearly seeing the process helps U of I researchers . We’re sure this young participant had a lot to tell her friends when she got home. The is a popular academy during the six-day .

U OF I BEEF BARNS. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

The ACES

LIVINGSTON COUNTY 4-H ALUMNA

One group of alumni enjoy 4-H so much, they’re still meeting, 90 years after the oldest began her 4-H journey. At 98 years young, Cathryn Frisby and her fellow members still meet monthly for a meal and guest speaker on topics ranging from honeybees to exercise.

Cathryn was inducted into the during the 2019 Illinois State Fair, and the Country Couples weren’t going to miss this special occasion. The group rented a van and cheered on the induction of their lifelong friend.

In 1929, two teachers at a rural Avoca Township school formed a 4-H club where Cathryn learned, with the encouragement of her mother, to darn, patch, and sew.

“When we got to be teenagers, we still wanted to be together,” Cathryn says, “so we formed a rural youth club, .”

The teens enjoyed square dancing and competed at the universities. From those friendships, many marriages formed.

“People started to marry, and we didn’t want to lose track of each other,” Cathryn says.

“Some of my best friends started as 4-H friends,” said Ruth Wessels, a former member of the Fayette Fantastics 4-H Club. She says she uses the skills learned in 4-H daily.

Margery Pratt says the group has been through wonderful times and difficult times together. Once a month, they grab a bite to eat and learn something they didn’t know before, for as long as they can.

Youth from military families gain support from teen mentors who understand the unique challenges facing military families.

4-H CAMP YOUTH AS THEY AND WHILE EXPLORING NATURE.

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

CAMPING AND OUTDOOR LIVING

find friends, understanding at 4-H Memorial Camp

You could hear it before you saw it. When the Blackhawk helicopter landed in the clearing at 4-H Memorial Camp, a roar went up from the 178 campers at Camp Corral. Sponsored by Golden Corral, the camp is open, at no cost, to youth of military families that have experienced loss or injury of a service member.

The three-person US Army helicopter crew, stationed in Decatur, inserts troops into Iraq and escorts VIPs. The 19-year-old pilot answered each question posed by the campers: the helicopter can fly up to 200 mph; the helicopter often flies at night with no lights allowing them to go undetected; and, the helicopter is valued at $10 million.

The campers buckled in to the seats and talked about adventures. Eric wants to work for NASA and likes to draw. Branden likes science and wants to be an archeologist. Zaina asks what each button of the helicopter does.

youth attend overnight 4-H camping programs across Illinois.

Youth in military families can participate in 4-H programs on base and learn with mentors who understand the unique challenges military families face.

Camp Corral allows youth from military families to enjoy time with other children who have common experiences. Jamie doesn’t often see her dad who serves in Iraq. Chandler’s attending his fifth Camp Corral. His dad was injured in an explosion.

“My daughter lost her dad in 2011. This camp means so much to her and gives her a chance to connect with kids going through the same or similar situation,” shared Autumn Sharie. “Thank you, 4-H, for hosting such an amazing experience.”

Many of the counselors are 4-H alums who spend their summer working the five weeks of summer camp. Lucas wants campers to know they don’t have to face their struggles alone.

“This week is about helping people who have a different life experience than other kids.”

For Alice, the Camp Corral crew is special and allows her to be part of something bigger than herself. “It doesn’t take a lot of effort to be kind,” Alice says. “A smile brings joy to these kids.”

WANDA | Military and Family Life Counselor

campers weeks

4-H CAMP COUNSELORS GAIN VALUABLE

and They grow life skills: patience, teamwork, cooperation, leadership, decision-making, responsibility, and empathy.

SANGAMON COUNTY

4-H YOUTH

Who knew that 4-H would into the person I am today! Without 4-H I would not have built and found friendships I know will last me a lifetime. It has helped me realize that there is so much out there in the world and

Without 4-H, I would have

MAKE POSITIVE CHANGES IN THEIR COMMUNITIES.

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

4-H projects focus on communication, leadership, and creative expression.

Youth plan and implement shows, camps, contests, service opportunities, and events. Youth have a voice in what H program.

Youth present a positive image of 4-H while they share their 4-H story with prospective members, donors, legislators,

Youth plan and lead a set of lessons for younger youth as they grow skills in making, communicating, and confidence.

Youth serve as a positive role model and encourage others to try new things as they grow in leadership and

Teens make up of 4-H club membership in Illinois, compared to only 17% in 4-H clubs nationwide. Why are we so successful? : teens are motivated by . They have . And, they . To keep teens engaged, we offer many ways to lead.

Youth use their skills in research, analysis, critical thinking, communicating, and teamwork to improve their community and world.

Youth add their voice to important discussions as they work with adults to make recommendations on boards and councils.

Illinois 4-H is the leader in teen development. Many states have now adopted our six leadership roles to engage new audiences and expand opportunities for greater independence and better representation of the youth voice in their 4-H programs.

Youth are motivated to influence others and are comfortable working in partnership with other teens and adults to complete important tasks.

Teens embrace diverse roles.

There is no way to mark where 4-H ends and FFA begins for Taylor Hartke. The Effingham County 4-H alum just completed her final year on the Illinois 4-H Youth Leadership Team and her rein as state FFA officer.

“On the Youth Leadership Team, I met people who understood my passion for leadership and valued the skills and strengths I brought to the group.”

The 24-member Youth Leadership Team plans and conducts state events and teaches peers in public speaking and leadership. “I gained organizational skills and learned to see things from various perspectives.”

“4-H provided me with more than just a way to express myself and my interests,” Taylor says. “I want to serve the agriculture community by helping individuals share their stories and informing the public about what rests on producers’ shoulders.”

Taylor will transfer to Southern Illinois University or Murray State University after graduating from Lake Land College in 2020. She plans to study agricultural communications.

“With 4-H and FFA, there is a great opportunity to show a united front of youth in agricultural leadership,” Taylor says.

“No matter the task that must be completed or the goal I am striving to reach, every moment can be traced to the skills and relationships I developed from the 4-H organization,” Taylor says. “Youth leadership programs, such as 4-H and FFA, give students of all ages a way to express themselves, develop in-depth knowledge, and learn valuable soft skills they can use no matter where life takes them.”

COUNTY 4-H | Illinois State 4-H Awards Celebration.

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

Together, we’re producing the youth leaders needed today and tomorrow.

| CHAMPAIGN COUNTY 4-H | National Prudential Spirit of Community $5,000 Award.Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

“I’m an example of the difference 4-H can make.”

Aja Capel, 16, is the national Prudential Spirit of Community Award winner for her work teaching robotics to minority youth in Champaign County. “My message to young people: seek significance over success,” says Aja. The teen is achieving both.

“I’m passionate about standing in the STEM gap and providing a bridge to new opportunities to kids who may never have considered a career in STEM,” Aja says. “As a teen, I found a place in 4-H where my passion for technology and engineering was celebrated and encouraged.”

Aja recently met national 4-H spokesman Jackie Joyner -Kersee. “The highlight of the evening was meeting someone so passionate about agriculture and STEM and what both offer communities of color.”

Camp counselors are responsible for the care and safety of campers, as well as making sure the experience is fun, inclusive, and enjoyable for all. Funding from the Illinois 4-H Foundation provided needed training for 24 teen counselors in northwest Illinois.

 : “4-H camp made me a better person and strengthened my skills in communication and

| Ogle, Stephenson, and Whiteside counties. Photo: Johnna Jennings.

At 16, Elizabeth Weidner has faced more challenges than many will ever face. But if you think she’s letting cancer slow her down, you’d be wrong. This Effingham County 4-H member and pageant queen is using her 4-H speaking skills and her public platform to advocate for those affected by cancer.

“Cancer is one wild ride few of us expect, none of us want, and some will not survive,” Elizabeth says. “I have the ability, the power, and the drive to make changes that will benefit those in the future because of my cancer!”

Through her organization, Crowns Fight Cancer, she is telling her powerful story. She is featured in a national documentary, The Promise, and was awarded the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award in 2019 for her work providing more than 50,000 personal toiletry items to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in St. Louis.

As Elizabeth’s 4-year battle of stage IV high risk neuroblastoma continues, she is committed to helping where she can “to make the best better for my club, my community, my country, and my world.”

One may learn more about Elizabeth’s leadership on the Crowns Fight Cancer Facebook page.

changing the world, one rhinestone at a time.

Caleb Grover joined 4-H in 2011 so he could learn basic rules for running a meeting. Now, as a member of the Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team and youth representative of the Illinois 4-H Foundation Board of Directors, he guides the direction of programs benefiting Illinois 4-H members through the meetings he attends.

“As youth in 4-H, we must be bold,” Caleb says, “bold enough to use our voice, listen to our hearts, and live life following our dreams.”

Caleb is planning a career in emergency medicine. He says 4-H allows him to pursue his interest in cancer research as a member of a special interest 4-H club at Milliken University in Decatur.

What they need, when they need it.

Junior high is a critical age in Illinois 4-H. It’s then that youth decide: do I stay or do I go? “The conference showcases all that comes next,” says new U of I 4-H leadership specialist Katie Duitsman. “Opportunities increase as youth get older. We want to be sure junior high youth get excited about new things they can do.”



“The conference changed my view of my future by showing me all the opportunities I can look forward to.”



“Sometimes the best leaders are ones that step back. This will help me see how I want to integrate 4-H into the rest of my life.”



“This experience taught me the true meaning of teamwork and how crucial it is to work together. Like the cliché states: together, we are one.”

Junior Leadership Conference is supported by the Illinois 4-H Foundation and its donors: Burrus Seed Farms, Country Financial, Elite Medical Transportation LLC, Legacy Grain Cooperative, Morgan County Commissioners & 4-H Foundation, Roegge Family, Scates Family, and Worrell Land Services.

| CHRISTIAN COUNTY 4-H | Illini Summer Academies Team Member. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

BY STUDYING CAREERS RELATED TO THEIR 4-H PROJECT WORK.

MORGAN COUNTY 4-H

Ag Communications Academy.

Photo: Matt Wiley.

COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS

projects focus on college and career readiness

It might be the most a teen can learn. Morgan County 4-H member Alex Dufelmeier says Illini Summer Academies taught him to The 14-year-old didn’t know what to expect from the , but a week on campus engaging with other teens and Ag Communication Instructor Heather Miller opened up all types of possibilities, including a career in communications.

Heather encourages the participants to go farther in their photography and story development by asking more questions so they

. For Alex, touring the beef barns allowed him to compare his family farm to the professional facility on campus.

“ Alex said. “To me, success is learning what you want to do in life and deciding what you can and will do to get it.”

Alex keeps in daily contact with the friends he made at Illini Summer Academies, including Heather. In a few years, should Alex choose U of I, he waiting.

Youth are aware of college majors related to their project areas and have the skills needed for future careers. 4-H creates pathways to successful careers by introducing youth to mentors who help guide their development.

Teens learn how to think, not what to think.

4-H

| Champaign-Urbana Fab Lab | Illini Summer Academies. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

These departments provided an 18-hour learning experience at Illini Summer Academies.

Aerospace Engineering

Ag Communication

Ag Mechanization*

Animal Science

An Sci: Wild to Mild*

Applied Health

Crop Sciences*

Electrical & Computer Engineering

Beekeeping

Food Science & Human

Game Design

Human Development & Family Studies

Molecular and Cellular Biology

My PI Disaster Preparedness*

Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences*

Vet Medicine

*new in 2019

| Illini Summer Academies

Photo: Matt Wiley

Yes, UIUC stands for University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, but Agricultural and Biological Engineering professor Dr. Tony Grift believes it also stands for

develops robotics technologies that push production potential while minimizing the environmental impact. “The grand challenge is to set humanity on a trajectory where it can alone.”

The opportunity to study with renowned researchers, such as Grift, makes willing to listen, the life lessons are everywhere. Instead of showing the youth how to build, Grift lets them find solutions through trial and error. The hardest part, Grift says, is . “People need practice doing that.”

and Family Studies | Illini Summer Academies.

Photo: Matt Wiley.

U of I faculty teach more than bookwork; they teach life work.

| Agricultural and Biological Engineering | Illini Summer Academies. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

4-H YOUTH USE TO AND IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR OTHERS.

MCLEAN COUNTY 4-H

STEM: SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING , MATH

here and across the globe.

Dhruv Rebba believes we should always to the world. While others may think it, this 15-year-old McLean County 4-H member is living it daily.

Through his nonprofit, , Dhruv is solving challenging world problems one step at a time. He joined 4-H robotics in fourth grade and credits his membership in the Metal Cow Robotics 4-H Club with teaching him good technical skills. The club earned a trip to FIRST Robotics Worlds this year as winners of the Engineering Inspiration Award.

“I got into engineering because of 4-H, and ,” Dhruv says.

Dhruv has and provided and textbooks for families living in poverty in rural India. He collaborates with YWCA to create afterschool STEM programs in Bloomington-Normal.

4-H projects focus on STEM, such as robotics, computers, small engines, and welding.

He advocated in Washington D.C. for the which creates funding for 21st Century Learning Centers and met with representatives Darin LaHood, Rodney Davis, and Raja Krishnamoorthi, as well as Senator Dick Durbin and Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos.

Dhruv’s interest in ham radio began at age 9. In 2017, he contacted astronaut Joe Acaba on the through ARISS, an organization that connects students with crew members using amateur radio technology. Dhruv received the Award from the Amateur Radio Newsline.

What’s Dhruv’s ? “One where everyone has basic human rights and a good quality of life.” 4-H members, such as Dhruv, are creating that world every day.

Youth know how to work cooperatively to innovate, build, solve problems, and imagine new possibilities in an ever-growing STEM world.

Creating opportunities for underserved audiences.

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman

Robotics participants learn to solve problems when the unexpected happens.

No matter how prepared you may think you are, the unexpected seems to happen at the Illinois 4-H State Robotics Challenge. 4-H clubs receive the contest guidelines in January and have four months to solve each challenge. The goal is to that can complete the most tasks from the challenge list. Each team has three minutes to showcase what their robot can do at the state competition.

Though robots may have performed perfectly in practice, there are many factors which can impact their day-of performance. Different lighting, a crease in the game mat, a low battery, or a drop on the way to the table may all create problems. Youth learn to to improve their score with each advancing run. The challenge is designed by youth, operated by youth, and judged by youth.

participants minority

| These McDonough County 4-H Cloverbud members competed in the 2019 FIRST Robotics national competition. Since their appearance, four more Cloverbud robotics clubs have started. They may be itty bitty, but they’re mighty. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

| With the dedication of volunteer teachers and support from the Illinois 4-H Foundation, youth in robotics clubs incorporate what they learn from 4-H STEM projects into their everyday lives. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

Lake, McHenry, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Cook, Will, Grundy, and Kankakee counties

When the National 4-H Council came to Chicago, Illinois 4-H members Brianna Robinson and Aja Capel were invited guests, sharing their experiences in agriculture and STEM.

“I believe that hearing feedback from members can better aid the advancement of 4-H,” Brianna says. “Knowing that my opinion was being listened to and used to better an amazing program was inspiring.”

The 17-year-old is a three-year member of the Rafiki 4-H Club of Cook County. She says 4-H helped her develop leadership and speaking skills. Brianna spoke at the Afro-American Genealogy Conference in 2019. She advocates for addressing food insecurity in urban settings.

Brianna is using her final year in 4-H to encourage others to join 4-H. “I want 4-H to become something all children can be part of no matter where they are from. The bond you create with your fellow 4-H members is unbreakable as you all learn about the world of STEM and agriculture.”

Brianna is pursuing a bachelor of science in nursing degree from Spelman College to reach her dream of becoming a neonatal nurse.

| National 4-H Council Board of Trustees meeting in Chicago. Photo: Mark Becker.

Illinois 4-H members shape national 4-H response to food access.

$20,000

With the Farm Progress Show as its backdrop, Compeer Financial renewed its commitment to Illinois Extension 4-H with a $20,000 gift to advance youth development opportunities.

“4-H creates an environment where the next generation of leaders can explore, learn, and grow,” said Karen Schieler, senior corporate giving specialist at Compeer Financial. “Creating these leaders and opportunities is essential for the future of Illinois and the rural communities served by Compeer.”

“We appreciate that Compeer sees value in investing in the development of today’s youth to become tomorrow’s leaders,” says Shelly Nickols-Richardson, associate dean and director of Illinois Extension. “The goal of providing a pipeline of leaders and professionals into enterprises like Compeer Financial depends upon the continued ability to grow youth through 4-H.”

Kim Kidwell, dean of the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences at U of I adds, “Compeer’s commitment to Illinois 4-H supports opportunities for youth to explore their interests, build their leadership skills, and make connections with new friends, mentors, and future employers. This continued support advances our work in youth development to help develop young people into future leaders of a better world.”

Compeer Financial’s $20,000 investment in Illinois 4-H this year helps support core programs in food access, animal sciences, speaking, leadership, and environment.

STORY BY ACES WRITER STEPHANIE HENRY

Compeer gift will grow 4-H speaking and leadership programs.

| U of I Chancellor Robert Jones (left) accepts the Compeer gift with Dr. Lisa Diaz, 4-H director, and Angie Barnard, Foundation executive director, during the Farm Progress Show.

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

4-H YOUTH ARE IN A GLOBAL SOCIETY BY DEEPENING THEIR CULTURAL AWARENESS.

(left to right) Amareon Naudain, Rachel Wolff, Rep. Mike Murphy, and Jaelyn Logan.

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

GLOBAL CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

4-H projects focus on global citizenship and civic engagement.

4-H Legislative Connection brings 100 4-H members together with their state legislators at the state capitol. “We’re here to make sure they see our faces,” Caleb Grover says.

The goal is two-fold: teach youth how to and of Illinois 4-H members.

“I’m glad you’re involved in this,” says 99th District representative Mike Murphy. He speaks from experience, having worked summers at the Sangamon County 4-H Food Stand.

“You’re going to find things you’re passionate about. ,” Murphy says.

Youth receive training prior to their visit, including tips from legislative consultant Pam Weber. “Legislative Connection allows legislators to see proof of their in Extension,” Pam says.

“You lobby every day of your life, maybe, not here at the Capitol, but in influencing people to support you. If you can master these skills, life will be easier,” Pam says.

Youth are four times more likely to engage in their communities than their peers. 4-H grows confident kids who tackle the issues that matter most in their communities.

Teens show personal side of the state’s investment in Extension.

| 4-H members visit each legislative office during Legislative Connection. Pictured (left to right) are Ruthie Ruhl, 16th District Senator Jacqueline Y. Collins, Caleb Grover, and Anthony Joiner. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

INBOUND YOUTH

from and

OUTBOUND YOUTH to Costa Rica

Finland

Japan

South Korea

We learn about people different from us.

We learn about a different cultures.

We develop skills in adapting to difference in values & behaviors.

It was a life-changing experience for our family.

HOST YOUTH say they they can offer others now

HOST YOUTH say they about contributing to make the world a better place

I now want to travel and experience another culture.

I want to host another student.

I enjoy learning about people different from me.

I care more about contributing to make the world a better place.

The international organization recognized for 30 years of service. Additional Illinois volunteers include , , and

|

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

hosted by Illinois 4-H

In the earliest beginnings of 4-H, the children of were leading generations of youth through 4-H club work. Peter came to America from Germany in 1857 and married Anna. Their seven children, Jacob, Anna, Emmanuel, Maggie, William, Iva, and Elmer, were raised in McLean County.

The descendants of Peter and Anna were honored as the 2019

Leaf Let’s Go Girls 4-H Club in McLean County for 40 years. Jacob’s daughter-in-law, Alyce Mohr, also led a club for 15 years.

“We have learned, first hand, that 4-H teaches youth many valuable life skills and we all enjoy sharing our time and talent to help empower the next generation of youth by teaching them they can make the best better.”

Family Spokesperson

. The award recognizes Illinois families who have benefited from 4-H and continue to advocate for the Illinois 4-H program over multiple generations.

Jacob’s daughters, Laura and May Mohr, born in 1896 and 1906 respectively, served as leaders of the Silver

In total, with ties to Peter and Anna are affiliated with 4-H. Combined, they share to 4-H.

Funding from donors, Project Partners, companies, and Friends of 4-H help the foundation support programming initiatives, scholarships, and assistance to national events.

: Still empowering generations of youth.

4-H Foundation Family Spirit Award

Kids and adults should work together to make sure kids are safe. It’s important to tell a trusted adult when someone is being bullied.

I know things to do when I don’t feel safe and ways to shift my focus.

4-H YOUTH

BY REINFORCING GOOD CHOICES AND SUPPORTING THEIR PEERS.

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

Safe, Affirming, and Fair Environments

4-H projects focus on healthy living, food preparation and nutrition.

Justin Adams, Liberty High School counselor, knows students are . “At Liberty, we realize we are dealing with a mental health crisis.” With the help of Adams County Extension 4-H youth educator Sheri Merry, , was created.

Forty youth were trained. The first day was emotional. “Once one person started opening up, others began to share,” Zoe says. “Those who couldn’t share realized they could at least listen.”

“You never notice how much people are there for you until you realize they are,” Issie says. “It felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders.”

Justin is careful to remind the group they are mentors, not counselors. Teens also share with elementary school students, reassuring them will change over time.

| Eagle Cares | Adams County

“We aren’t the same people we were before we started Eagle Cares. There’s hope and there’s a future.”

Eagle Cares teen

“You’re going to change; it’s who we are,” Issie says. The program also involves improving parent communication.

“Students come to school feeling alone,” Justin says. Students who don’t have activity groups often feel left out. Eagle Cares members look for peers in the lunchroom who might need a friend and join them for lunch.

“This wouldn’t have happened without the Extension staff,” Justin says. “We had big ideas; they saw it through.”

Youth gain skills in dealing with peer pressure and stress, making good decisions, and improving their self-value and self-confidence.

create safe places for youth.

 4-H is a place you can be a leader.

 4-H is a place you are encouraged to plan for your future.

 4-H is a place you get to teach others what you’ve learned.

 4-H is a place where it’s okay to make mistakes.

 4-H is a place you learn ways to help your community.

 will exercise more

 will drink more water

 will eat less junk food

 will eat more fruit

 will eat more whole grains

 will eat more vegetables

 say because of 4-H, they know about healthy food choices

Source: 1,183 survey responses from Health Jam, Cooking 101, and Food Challenge participants

Creating learning

strategies that support 4-H members of all abilities.

Learn by doing. No matter what type of learning style a youth has, the 4-H motto to learn through offers them an opportunity to initiate a spark and explore it through a variety of exciting, innovative project areas and programs.

The is just one way 4-H ensures all youth are supported and able to fully participate in these learning experiences. Each 4-H office in Illinois now has a kit that contains tools to engage a youth’s senses and help increase the ability to focus some of the excited energy that can accompany new experiences.

Some of the tools in the kit include silly putty, playdough, a visual-schedule mat, fidget spinner, a digital timer, and more. Each kit is customizable to meet the needs of the youth. Parents, leaders, and youth may communicate their needs for this resource.

The sensory tool kit is only one of the many new ways 4-H is working to provide a . Contact a local 4-H office to learn more about equitable programming and resources for all youth in the community.

Story: Emily Saddler

The babies are comforted by the mother’s smell.”

Alaina and her club led a service project during the Illinois State Fair. With the help of more than 200 4-H members, the group was able to donate more than 300 flannel hearts. Material may be donated at the Adams County Extension office.

4-H YOUTH LEARN TO HANDLE FIREARMS IN AND .

SHOOTING SPORTS

on the range and in life.

Youth in 4-H shooting sports programs learn the of firearms. All members are under the direct supervision of a who helps members feel welcomed in the program while they grow in leadership and independence.

“The project teaches

, which will transfer to other aspects of life,” said Robin Mizell, Extension 4-H program coordinator. His unit received $3,000 from the Illinois 4-H Foundation to expand the shooting sports program in southern Illinois.

Sometimes the real wins have nothing to do with how many bullseyes you hit; it’s what changes inside of you because you tried.

“That’s what 4-H is all about.” Mizell said. “Whether it’s shooting sports or public speaking or cooking or showing livestock, to achieve their own personal best is a core 4-H value.”

H projects focus on shooting sports.

Piatt County 4-H member Dakota Larimore-Lamb grew up hunting and fishing. At eight, he participated in archery and rifle with 4-H. Then, he discovered trap shooting, and his focus shifted to improving his shotgun skills as a member of the Midstates Marksman 4-H Club. He represented Illinois at the National 4-H Shooting Sports Championship and finished second in the state contest. His leader, Tom Bates, says Dakota has a natural ability and composure for the sport. “He doesn’t get rattled.”

| PIATT COUNTY

ST. CLAIR COUNTY | with Garden Manager Mark (left) and Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

FOOD SYSTEMS

4-H Hunger Ambassadors find innovative ways to ease burdens.

From community gardens to mobile food markets, Illinois 4-H members are finding issues for youth in their communities. They have found a new partner equally committed to achieving that goal. Olympian has joined 4-H on its quest to improve for families.

“The work I do in the community will be the I’m able to leave,” Jackie says of her work at her East St. Louis community center. She hopes the youth see that giving back doesn’t have to be about money. “When someone gives their time, that’s giving back. I hope they learn that.”

Jackie’s Winning in Life youth development curriculum, based on her autobiography, teaches youth center participants 14 principles, including

4-H projects focus on food access and gardening

“My hope is they’ll to handle whatever happens in their lives,” Jackie says. “We want society to dig deep, and our lessons align with what 4-H teaches.”

St. Clair County 4-H member spent the day with Jackie. Caleb’s story is as exceptional as the renowned athlete. Born in China, Caleb spent two years in an orphanage and seven years in foster care before being adopted by Russell and Angie Kinzinger seven years ago. despite multiple surgeries related to spina bifida.

“4-H has taught me that even though I am disabled, I can still do things other people can do,” Caleb says, including show pigs at the fair. “My parents help me find ways to reach in the show ring and life.”

A fan of cooking, Caleb prepared lunch with Jackie using greens from the garden.

Hunger Ambassadors determine best ways to alleviate hunger in their local communities and make action plans to address access to healthy food for families.

| Photo: Amy McCarty.

|

Photo: Rachel Hazen.

| HARP FAMILY | Photo: Anita Wilkinson.

It’s never too early to instill a love of gardening.

From the ground up.

Extension programs support five youth gardens where more than 200 youth met weekly over the summer. In addition, youth assist with gardens at the YMCA camp, a local teen center, and two daycare facilities. They also planted a raised-bed garden at the unit office.

Partnering with the Teen Reach afterschool in , 4-H members have built three raised-garden beds where tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and sunflowers were shared with the community. In addition, the Hunger Ambassadors in that county planted four raised -garden beds in Sesser, which produced despite floods and heat.

4-H members care for 24 raisedgarden beds, 50 plant mounds, a peach tree, pear tree, two apple trees, strawberries, and blackberry bushes. Their efforts provided food for 1,505 people. The 50 youth members racked up 1,487 volunteer hours. In addition to the gardening skills, the 40 youth attended weekly cooking classes where they learned to wash, cook, can, and freeze the locally-grown produce. The program is supported by the Illinois 4-H Foundation Innovation Grant program.

The Gift Garden ended its fourth year with a total of 12 beds and an abundance of strawberry and peanut plants. One hundred fifty milkweed plants were added along the fence line to help feed Monarch butterfly larvae. A greenhouse donated by First Bank of Carmi will allow for winter gardening. More than 1,500 pounds of produce has been donated to area senior centers, food pantries, and farmer markets, and 120 fourth graders and 80 pre-k students have assisted at the gardens.

When students at the Alhambra

Primary School arrive in the fall, they are greeted by a bountiful school garden. They help harvest the vegetables. During year, they learn the growing process, then plant the garden before leaving for summer. Many staff members and families from the school visit and care for the garden over summer. Youth discovered the tender care needed to keep a food source alive.

There’s no doubt where are the first Monday of each month; they’re helping distribute truckloads of food from the St. Louis Foodbank. In 2019, 1,234 families (with 1,155 youth) received over 101,000 pounds of food.

The food pantries in received more than 1,400 food items from 4-H food drives held on the National 4-H Day of Service in April. The clubs also serve meals at the Ronald McDonalds House and St. John’s Breadline, both in Springfield.

4-H members teamed up with the Farm Bureau Young Leaders’ “Harvest for All.” They collected 550 food and hygiene items.

4-H club awarded $25,000 to feed McLean County families.

The Olympia Pacesetters 4-H Club has been serving the Stanford community at its , a food pantry and clothing exchange, since 2008. Now, a to expand its other locations in the Olympia school district.

The clubs plans to build the sturdy, allHopedale, Minier, Armington, McLean, Waynesville, Atlanta, Danvers, Covell, and Stanford, as well as at the middle and high schools. The pantries are made from insulated truck tool boxes. They are in the community 24/7.

Most of the food is donated by the nearby Midwest Food Bank. The club has added the . The garden allows clubs members to learn about horticulture and environmental sustainability while providing produce to their community.

Photos: Mark Becker.

Blake Twenhafel had University of Illinois ACES Dean Kim Kidwell’s full attention as he explained his 4-H hydroponic system he exhibited at the Illinois State Fair. The system uses water instead of soil to grow plants. The plants sit in small cups with holes to allow fertilized water to flow through. The water must flow consistently at the right speed, Blake says.

The 14-year-old made the system himself using 4-inch pvc pipes, a 5-gallon bucket, and a 200-gallon bulk tank. He starts plants in soil until they’re large enough to transfer to the hydroponic system. Changing the water every two weeks keeps the acidic balance correct, Blake says. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

Rural areas have high incidents of food insecurity. Libby Larkin decided to do something to help those in need in Livingston County. With the help of her family and the Pontiac Power Rockets 4-H Club, Libby raised the funds to purchase the raw ingredients for a foodpackaging event. The chicken-flavored rice casserole packages feed a family of four. Volunteers measure the ingredients which are vacuum sealed and labeled for distribution.

“I want to help kids who don’t have enough money for food, especially over the weekend,” Libby says.

“Before 4-H, I had no idea how many kids deal with that.”

Libby and her club packaged 10,500 meals which were distributed to area food

pantries. Photo: Mark Becker.

The Illinois 4-H Foundation would like to thank the many individuals, businesses, trade associations, and organizations that provide financial support for our 4-H programs. Your financial support is the reason we can continue to fund outstanding 4-H opportunities in Illinois that give our youth opportunities to grow, learn, and succeed.

GIVING TO HELP YOUTH GROW

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

ILLINOIS 4-H FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT ON GIVING

No better way to leave your legacy for generations.

The results are clear: young people involved in 4-H are . They are inspired by learning as they master projects. They are inspired by the in their clubs. And they are inspired by the who share their knowledge. What happens next is amazing: . They are serving their clubs, serving their schools, serving their friends, serving their families, and serving their communities.

This year’s giving report showcases your commitment to lead and to serve. We highlight donors who have a cumulative record of giving for fifteen or more years, as well as our first-time donors.

Illinois 4-H Foundation Executive Director

JULY 1, 2018 TO JUNE 30, 2019

4-H ANNUAL FUND (30%)

4-H PROGRAM-SPECIFIC (45%)

COUNTY-SPECIFIC SUPPORT (13%)

ENDOWMENTS (12%)

DONORS GAVE GIFTS

Barriers to membership and program opportunities are removed so any Illinois youth who wants to participate in 4-H can.

FIRST-TIME DONORS

ENDOWMENTS VALUED AT WITH ANNUAL INTEREST OF

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

Gary & Ann Turner

Marvin & Muriel Watters

Robert & Karla Weldon

Larry & Elizabeth West

Lila Jeanne Eichelberger

R & D Walter Farm

Larry Wilson

Edward & Martha Gillespie

Thomas & Karen Klatt

Gary & Constance Stauffer

Illinois Farm Bureau

DeWayne & Verla Stevens

Anderson Foundation

Donald & Pamela Denby

Stanley Loretta Eden

Hartmann Farms, Inc.

George & Penny Hiler

Stanley Hoelzer

Illinois Pork Producers Association

Douglas & Kathleen A. Scott

Mary A. Taylor

Eldon & Betty Greenwood

Jack & Sally Widholm

Ann Hodgson

Eva Sloman

John Kustes

Glenn & Lorraine Lenschow

Walter & Lavonne Nelson

James & Sally Ramp

Carl Dumoulin

Linda Hiltabrand

Mary Hoffman

Sandra Lignell

John & Ruth McDaniel

Paul A. Funk Foundation

James & Nancy Roberts

Wilbert & Elizabeth Stevenson

Eleanor Eisfeller

Grace Haskins

John & Barbara Ibendahl

Illinois Department of Agriculture

Richard & Charlotte Myers

State Bank of Toulon

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

“I give to the Illinois 4-H Foundation because I know it can truly change the experience of one individual, whether that be through a club experience, a leadership development opportunity, or advancing someone’s education.”

Kevin Carey

Doris White

Robert & Mary Pritchard

Prospect Bank

Anne Sears

First National Bank of Brownstown

Francis Kamerer

William & Lisa Kuhn

Land of Lincoln Purebred Livestock Breeders Association

Phyllis Oschwald

Stacy & Cynthia Peterson

Ramsey Grain, Inc.

Southern Illinois Electric Cooperative

Donna Fortney

Virl Hallett & Connie Two

Harriett Lindstrom

Ned & Catherine Null

Daniel Reinhart

Rural Electric Convenience Cooperative Co.

Ronald & Maya Throneburg

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

Compeer Financial

Joan & Russell Davidson

John & Anne Huston

Ruth Johnson

Alvin Kobernus

Joan Lawson

Robert & Mary Muentnich

Joy & Charles Richey

Gordon & Jane Sissing

Charles & Bonnie Swatek

Charlotte Wax

Foundation

Leon & Linda Follmer

Eldon & Sandra Gould

Patricia Hodge

Clarence Holdiman

Illinois Landscape Contractors Association

Lucile Johnson

Charles & Gail Nolan

Charles & Carol Reiter

Jacquelyn Roll

John & Claire Sauntry

Melvin & Linda Thies

Tompkins State Bank

Forrest Van Orman

Vernon & Laura Veal

Archer Daniels Midland Company

First National Bank of Steeleville

Glenn Hillman

Robert Kline

Wilma Mende

Kenneth & Betty Moser

Wilbur & Marilyn Nelson

Roger & Kathleen Reum

Welsh Brothers

William & Emily Bane

Howard Carter

Jerry & Kristine Daws

Floyd & Louise Forcade

Jeannette Gardner

Harvey & Candy Harms

Illinois Pork Council

Kankakee County Association for Home and Community Education

Theresa Reeder

Duane & Kimberly Schallenberg

Lois Schmidt

Rodney & Karen Seuring

Darrell & Mary Andris

Burlington Resources

Alfred & Rosemary Vermiglio

Marjory Wahls

Margaret Bateman

Jane Casey

Ruth Clanin

Patricia Clickener

Clinton County Electric Cooperative, Inc.

David & Carol Close

Nancy Daigh

Donald & Virginia Durbin

Miriam Elliott

Harold & Barbara Ely

Robert & Mary Espeseth

Patricia Finch

Mark & Debra Forbes

Charles & Lois Frazee

Richard & Kim Grever

Carol Hadley

Peggy Harmon

William & Teresa Hart

Steven & Diana Herriott

Arthur & Esther Kane

William & Betty Kelch

Eugene & Joyce Knodle

Lloyd & Sue Leka

Randall & Diane Lloyd

“For me, 4-H creates a culture of hard work and fun. My work on the board allows me to collaborate with my peers who have the same passion I have to allow more youth have the same experience I was able to receive.”

Paul Hadden

Thomas & Patricia Loftus

Searoba Mascher

Michael & Vicki Massie

Kevin & Jenny Miller

Charles & Mary Pfingsten

Margaret P. Rathje

Steven & Mary Safford

Darryl & Ruth Sayre

Leon O. Shaw

Lionel & Rebecca Stirrett

Helen Thorp

Lloyd & Nita Wright

Philip & Sarah Alexander

Eldon & Virginia Aupperle

Burton & Marilyn Barr

Nelson & Kathryn Baumgartner

Roger Bengtson

Bergschneider, LLC

Eugene & Darlene Bergschneider

Belva Beyers

Carol Bork

Robert & Gail Briggs

Annabelle Burgland

Paul & Ellen Burton

John & Mary Church

Steven & Denita Clover

Covenant Animal Clinic

Crop-Tech Consulting, Inc.

Randy Maas & Laura DavisMaas

Samuel & Virginia Down

DuPage County Farm Bureau

David Ebert

Dale & Janet English

James Esworthy

William & Rita Francis

Eloise Fritschle

Thomas & Carol Gelwicks

Larry & Jenny Gibbs

Joan Glendenning

Ronald Going

Steven & Pamela Greenfield

Richard & Barbara Gregory

Glenda Harris

Peter Haselhorst

Alvin & Phyllis Hepner

Phyllis Hieronymus

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

Heather Hampton+Knodle

Mary West

Norman & Joy Wideburg

WM. Beck Auction & Realty

Kenneth & Linda Wyss

Norman & Martha Ehlers

Dorothy Emory

Scott & Rebecca Erickson

Cynthia Eustice

Farmers State Bank of Elmwood

Jack & Vicki Flammang

Michael & Beverly Friese

William & Lorraine Hacker

Libbie B. Aavang

Leonard & Pat Armstrong

Richard & Arla Ault

Ronald Aves

Dan & Deanna Hoge

Dean & Arlene Holmes

Gary & Marilyn Holt

Lloyd & Joyce Honegger

Roger & Ranelle Hubele

Donnell & Dorothea Hunt

Jo-Carroll Energy

Robert & Donna Johnson

Jean Johnston

Georgeann Jones

Carol Jones

Ronald Kuntzelman

Medanell Lawton

Craig & Gail Lithgow

Ted Lobello

Ronald & Carlene Maag

Enid Marshall

Amy & Virgil Martin

Michael & Lynn Martz

Alan & Joyce Merriman

William & Anita Million

Dean Nelson

Michael & Carol Olson

Judith Onken

Ralph & Margene Paarlberg

Paullin Farm

Randall & Betsy Pech

Keith & Heather Poppy

Shirley Rees

Mildred Renken

Foster & Jean Rinefort

Rochester State Bank

Michael & Theresa Roegge

Harold Sanders

David & Rose Sandstrom

Gordon & Carol Schroeder

Sandra J. Schrof

Kay Schwarting

Ruth Sparkman

Allen & Valerie Stabenow

State Farm Companies Foundation

Richard Steiner

Mark & Sue Sterr

Peter Streid

Allen Swegle

Peter & LaRae Walter

Henry & Janice Wassmann

Terry & Louise Weidner

Christine Bannister

John & Christine Baumann

Virginia Beckner-Rush

Brian Bend

Kenneth Betz

Douglas & Edith Block

Richard & Marilyn Bogner

Ross & Carolyn Brower

Jeff & Toni Brown

Althea Carls

David & Tami Carroll

Theodore & Jean Chase

Steven & Lyren Haney

Michael Hartman

Emery & Jeannine Hayes

Jerry & Jill Hicks

Bruce & Caroll Hortin

Scott & Michele Horton

Roger & Karen Houston

Illinois Lamb and Wool Producers, Inc.

James Jarboe

Joy State Bank

John & Marcia Kabat

Richard & Mary Killey

Knox County Farm Bureau Foundation

“I believe that what we are doing will enable a young person to try something new, and that they will be willing to serve others in the future.”

Photo: Anita Wilkinson.

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

Helen Medley

Franklin & Jane Mellert

Orlan & Carol Miller

Monroe County Farm Bureau

Leanna Mraz

Richard & Patricia Nelson

Eleanor Nolin

Delano & Wanda Ohaver

Margaret Pearse

Raritan State Bank

Virginia Rimington

Rossville Packing Company, Inc.

Maurice & Anita Roy

Duane & Pamela Runyon

Orion & Gloria Samuelson

Robert Seaver

Brock & Ruth Seney

Carole D. Shirely

Jeffrey & Janice Sibley

Kent Slater & Penny Lawyer

Maurice E. Sprout

Phyllis M. Staker

Iva Stamberger

Gregory & Mary Sullivan

Evelyn M. Thomas

Christopher & Cathy Thorp

Arlene E. Welsh

Randall & Janet Wesemann

Kevin & Kelly Winter

Robert & Diane Wolf

Rodney Worth

Harry & Helen Wright

Neval & Norma Yeates

Rosella Young

Helen Abbott

DeWayne Adams

Jule Allaman

Catherine Apel

Christina Barthel

Shirley Bennett

Mary & Eric Benson

John & Roberta Boarman

Patricia L. Boarman

Lois Boecker

Robert & Debra Book

Jeffrey & Mindy Brown

Todd & Deborah Burrus

Robert & Shirley Carroll

Roger & Martha Carson

Caterpillar Foundation

David & Carolyn Cattron

Betty Church

Clark County 4-H Leaders

Joseph & Callie Connor

Martin & Rosann Conroy

James & Nina Hubert

Lawrence & Mary Huseman

Illinois Holstein Association

Bernard Janecki

Jack Jennings

James & Joyce Jensen

John Deere Foundation

Daniel & Linda Johnson

Thomas & Sharon Johnson

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

“I like being constantly challenged and solving problems with out-of-the-box solutions. With my help, more children will have the opportunity to benefit their communities and achieve career success.”

Tanner Scherer

Joan Salzman

David & Sylvia Saunders

Richard D. Sawyer

DiAnne Schmitt

Thomas & Nancy Schneider

Jon & Joyce Scholl

Debra Seyller

Merilyn Shepherd

Deborah Sterett

O. J. & Susie Stoutner

Doug & Marsha Strom

Susan Taylor

The Northern Trust Company

Mary Thompson

Howard Tingley

Gary Unsicker

Larry & Jan Voigt

Richard & Carmen Walgrave

Ormand & Phyllis Webb

Michael & Janet Whitchurch

Robert Wilkinson

Donald & Irene Wilson

William & Jane Wyffels

Elnathan Anderson

Shirley Crisco

Larry & Mary Cutler

David Carroll, Inc.

Richard & Janice David

Jane Dierker

James & Sandra Donovan

Harold & Nancy Drake

Marion Eden

Eugene & Eilene Ehrhardt

Farmers Elevator Company of Sciota

Larry & Tamara Fischer

Alan & Sherry Flack

Stephen & Judy Francis

George & Julia Frock

Gerald & Nancy Gehlbach

Wayne Gleim

Marsha Gritton

William & Elaine Hall

Donald & Lorraine Hand

William & Harriet Hayden

Alan Henderson

Steven & Phyllis Hess

John & Janice Kellogg

Joel & Nancy Kelsey

Ronald Klein

Cleo Koch

Dan & Carol Koch

Norman & Barbara Larson

Jerome & Durlene Lawless

Walter & Nina Lembke

Gregory & Diane Lepper

Richard & Ruby Lingle

Virginia Malone

Mason City Community Chest

Michael McCully & Carolyn Gibbs

Leona Meyer

Monsanto Company

Daniel & Melissa Moore

Richard & Gladys Myers

Nelson Farm Service

Thomas & Jean Nolte

Nu-Deal Oil Company Division of Nu-Deal Corporation

Virginia Orcutt

Patricia Orr

Ronald & Tracey Ott

Ross & Connie Pauli

Mark & Carolyn Paullin

Russell & Elaine Peppers

David & Holly Peterson

Premier Cooperative, Inc.

Richard & Alice Rainville

Martha Rhoades

Donald Robertson

Shirley Saiter

Lee & Tamara Ator

Elmer & Beata Aupperle

John & Beatrice Bagby

Charles & Kathleen Bloomberg

Kenneth & Mary Bolen

David & Lynnellen Briggs

Wesley Broers

Billy & Sue Brooks

Maury & Kimberly Busboom

Dean & Doris Cates

Janet Chapman

John & Adrienne Chesnut

Katherine Cloonen

Kendall & Charlot Cole

Coon Creek Sod Farms

Shirley Davis

Richard & Jean Doub

Jane Fairchild

James & Carla Farley

Farm Credit Illinois

Ken & Janine Ferrie

First National Bank of Ava

Samuel & Judith Foster

Robert & Sharon Going

Donald & Elizabeth Greeley

Donald Hahn

Rita M. Hallett

Duane & Margaret Haney

James & Christine Hazen

Chris Hoelscher

William & Brigit Hollis

Margaret Hutchins

Hyland Farm Polands

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

“Investing in Illinois 4-H means I am reinvesting in my community, in the future of our state, and in the program that invested in me. Large or small, every gift matters.”

Melissa Wilson

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

William & Lois Stetzler

Elinor Stille

Sharalyn Borchers

Borgic Farms, Inc.

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

“The human ‘return on investment’ is huge. 4-H is the garden where young people begin their journey of growing up into strong, good adults. 4-H of today offers up the same valuable skills to young people that it did to me half a century ago.”

Roger Clark

Gerald & Joan Stoffregen

Carole Sullivan

Arthur & Sharon Tenhouse

The Gerber State Bank

Wayne Thurmond

Beverly Tucker

David Tuntland

William & Eleanor Uhlman

Anthony & Amy Ulrich

David Vandeburg

Robert & Lorraine

Phillip & Karen Borgic

Gerald & Norma Boston

Marilyn Bottorff

Darryl & Jean Brinkmann

Daniel & Darleen Brinkmann

William & Marina Britz

Donald & Sandra Brown

Claudia Builta

Gary & Shelly Bultemeier

Gary & Sherry Butler

Gregory & Brenda Close

Dorothy Isbell

J. B. & Ruthann Johnson

Robert & Lois Jornlin

Henry Kaiser

Robert Kenney

Kenneth & Lora Kesler

Edward & Kimberly King

Kenneth & Jeanette Knight

Martin & Rebecca Koster

Edward & Sharon Kramer

Elmer Lanz

Raymond & Carol Larson

Lorene Lay

Joseph & Diane Lecher

Gary & Mary Leonard

Mary Lubertozzi

Donald Mack

Stephen & Charmayne Mack

Marion M. Eden Insurance

Jerome & Carolyn Marley

Teresa Marshall

McLean County Farm Bureau

William & Jane McNamara

Jo A. Menacher

Daniel & Brenda Mills

Monsanto Fund

Donald Mosher

Ross & Nancy Muehling

Michael Murray

National 4-H Council

Robert & Ida Nuernberger

Howard & Angie Perry

Donald & Carol Poe

Ernest Potter

Robert & Gayla Potts

Delbert & Shirley Price

Kenneth & Amy Quinn

Kim & Lois Rees

Coy Reichert

Fern Rice

Donald & Mary Riedle

George & Ruby Roemer

Albert & Roberta Roth

John & Lois Rowe

William Runzel

John Rutledge

Winona Saathoff

Thomas & Pam Schahrer

Sharon Scherer

Donna Schumacher

Vormezeele

Jerry & Judy Waldron

John & Susan Wallace

Mary Walsh

Ronald & Melanie Warfield

Wayne & Martha Welch

Donald & Karen Wettstein

John & Mary Wilson

Robert & Joyce Wilson

Lawrence & Charlotte Wohler

Bonnie Woolley

Warren & Norma Zehr

Access Ag, Inc. DBA Mazon

Farmers Elevator Co.

Garret & Jill Apel

Barry & Karessa Aves

James Ayers

Sidney & Florence Banwart

Harold & Nancy Barnes

Everett & Pamela Bass

Beeler Farms

William Beeler & M. S. DielBeeler

Russell & Nancy Boe

Diana Bollin

Country Financial

Ray & Irene Denbesten

Jack & Carolyn Denny

Carl & Mary Dilling

Mary Edwards

William Eickhoff

Kevin & Lori Engel

Clarence & Norma Forth

G and E Roskamp, Inc.

C. E. & Joanne Gill

Ardell & Dorothy Goetting

Richard & Judy Goodwin

William & Nancy Gossett

Jerry & Linda Gourley

Nancy Haire

Brian Knodle & Heather

Hampton-Knodle

Richard & Cinda Hanes

Mary Harland

Gerald & Nancy Hartmann

Faiz & Linda Hasib

Peggy Hays

Heritage Farms Grain & Dairy, Inc.

Joseph & Nancy Hogan

Nestled in the overgrown brush near the University of Illinois

Pollinatarium, hives of bees work quietly (except for that buzzing) producing honey. U of I received “Bee Campus” status in 2018 for encouraging bee-healthy management practices. Noted entomologists May Berenbaum and Gene Robinson created the Pollinatarium, the first free-standing center in the nation devoted to flowering plants and pollinators. Each summer, 4-H participants at Illini Summer Academies work with the hives and learn stewardship practices from coordinator Leslie Deem. Gifts to the Foundation support scholarships for first-generation students to visit the U of I campus. Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

Leila Hulting

Merle Huntington

Illinois Valley Supply, LLC

David Jasper

Thomas Johnson

Donald & Virginia Johnson

John & Elizabeth Kelley

Kentland Farms

Ronald & Mary Kersten

Richard & Barbara Kiefer

John & Anastasia Killian

Susan Klehm

Ronald & Wanda Kloster

Mathias & Mary Kluemke

Janet Kolmer Grommet

Alan Kulczewski

Brian Schaumburg & Beth

Laakman-Schaumburg

Richard & Sharon Linden

Wilma Long

John & Sharon Lyons

Kevin & Linda Main

Marley Pork Farms, Inc.

John & Edith Massey

Massie & Quick, LLC

Michael & Shirley McElvain

Russ & Linda Monson

Charles & Doris Morehouse

Kathleen Morio

Bettina Morris

Ronald & Carmen Morthland

Ted & Janet Mottaz

Gregory & Linda Muehling

Mulch Farms, Inc.

Opal Parrott

Carl & Marilyn Payne

Roscoe & Annette Pershing

John & Tammy Poffenberger

Clifford & Carolyn Puzey

Lynn Rainey

Richard Ramsey

John & Bernadine Richter

William & Karen Robinson

Dennis & Phyllis Roby

Curtis & Beth Rocke

Fred Rodhouse

Richard Sauder

Gary & Theresa Schmalshof

Sharon Stierwalt

C. J. Stilwell

Collins & Barbara Stoll

Rodney Stoll

Irvin & Judith Story

Wanda Streitmatter

Philip & Frances Struble

W. L. Swope

Ken & Mary Tasset

Vivian Trone

Dale & Teresa Troyer

Kenneth & Charlotte Tyrrell

Tara & Marvin VanHoorn

Peter Viall

Larry Wachtel

Patricia Wakey

James & Sharon Walker

Richard & Sara Wendling

Roy & Christine Wendte

Westchester Group Investment Management, Inc.

Ronald Wilke

Leola Woodworth

Share the following language with your estateplanning attorney to add to your will or living trust.

“I leave (e.g. % of estate, $ amount, residue) to the University of Illinois 4-H Foundation, an Illinois nonprofit corporation (37-6006007), for the benefit of the Illinois 4-H Foundation supporting the Illinois 4-H Youth Development Program.”

| Grants from the Illinois 4-H Foundation are extending 4-H opportunities to first-generation audience, such as these youth in a new Latino initiative in Bureau County.

Gary & Michele Aavang

Sherry Anast

David Althaus & Angie

Anderson-Althaus

Harriet Badger

Brian & Leanne Barnhart

Bane & Angela Bates

Monsanto Fund

Walter Beatty

Boehle Consulting

Daryl & Verleen Bollmeier

Gene & Pamela Bork

Nancy Bower

Terry & Sherry Brakhane

Marilyn Brown

Gene Buhrow

Mary Carls

Betty Casper

Close Farms

Ted & Sheri Collins

Country Financial

Marcia Cox

Marilyn Coyne

Craig Culp

Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.

Dale & Linda Drendel

Lawrence & Mary Duewer

Shirley Dufelmeier

Rolland & Ardeanne Ekena

Jerry & Carolyn Endress

Peggy Etherton

Glenn & Mary Fesser

First National Bank of Nokomis

Jerry & Jeri Francis

John & Jane Francis

Elizabeth Franks

Cimeron & Rachel Frost

Jeff & Pat Galle

Alice Garwood

Joy Geddes

Donald & Lee Gibbons

Janet Goodell

Grain and Feed Association of Illinois

Michael & Alee Gunderson

Donald Gustafson

Doris Gvillo

Charles & Ethel Hagenbuch

Gary & Laura Hampton

Ronald & Patricia Hartmann

Nancy Heaton

Ann Hertz

Roger & Shirley Higgs

G. R. Hillman

Eldon Hoerbert

Allen & Pamela Jacobs

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

“My time on the board is just a return of the gift 4-H gave me as a child that greatly influence my life, both personally and professionally. My financial support is to help ensure all Illinois youth have the opportunities I had in 4-H.”

Jan Sibley

John Janssen

Eugene & Marjean Jiles

John Deere Foundation

Jason Johns

Rosemary Jones

Marvin & Barbara Juliar

Bill Kannberg

Marjorie Keane

Gordon Kelm

Robert & Judith Kemp

Dale & Jane Kiser

Knox County Home & Community Education

Edward & Karen Koch

William & Lois Lee

Steven & Beth Macke

Jeff & Jenna Maierhofer

Dale & Peggy Markwalder

Don & Barb Mathey

Philip & Karen McArdle

Betty McGillivray

David & Lisa McMurtry

Robert & Martha Mulch

Brenda & Michael Murphy

Willard Nelson

Stanley & Alice Nelson

Otter Creek Acres

Joel & Nancy Ottosen

Eugene & Shirley Overcash

Gerald & Ruth Poppe

Allen & Janet Poynter

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

Walter & Sandra Rademaker

Rally Tree Farm

Norman & Mary Rhoades

Phillip & Jacqlin Richmond

E. L. Rogers

Ronald & Gail Romersberger

Norman & Mary Ross

Barbara Rossman

Alan & Phyllis Ruwe

David & Helen Schafer

Schoolman Farms II

John & Barbara Schrage

Jeffrey & Lynne Schroeder

Bettie Scott

Mark & Brenda Seboldt

Esther Shanks

Edward Sheehan

Linda Sheldon

Patsy Sherrard

F. E. & Jo Smalley

Helen Smith

Mary Snavely

State Bank of Saunemin

Melinda States

Roger Steimel

Virginia Stout

Vera Stutzke

Cheslea & Judith Taylor

Robert & Liana Terwilliger

Edwin & Melanie Teubel

Robert & Dolores Torsberg

Dennis & Cherie Van Daele

John & Betty Viano

Dorothy Vinson

Michael & Susan Weber

Richard & Marilyn Weller

Wilbert & Elaine Wernecke

Donald & Elsie Westerman

James & Joyce Wilcox

Helen Wilcoxon

Dorothy Willard

James & Cheryl Wormley

Daryle & Joan Wragge

Jim & Carla Zwicker

Country Financial invited Farm Progress Show visitors to cast their vote for their favorite ag leadership program: Illinois 4-H, Illinois FFA, and Farm Bureau Young Leaders. “COUNTRY has long been a supporter and advocate for programs focused on youth and young leaders in agriculture,” said Lindsey Rinkenberger, director of agribusiness at COUNTRY.

“We are proud to provide financial support to 4-H, FFA, and Farm Bureau Young Leaders. We believe that at their core, all three of these organizations help develop, and their members represent, the future of agriculture. We are thrilled that visitors agreed and were eager to vote for each organization at the Farm Progress Show.”

The Illinois 4-H Foundation Board of Directors accepted the $5,000 check. Pictured are (left to right)

Caleb Grover, Jerry Hicks, Lindsey Rinckenberger, Dr. Lisa Diaz, and Tanner Scherer.

Photo: Angie Barnard.

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

GIVING: FIRST-TIME DONORS IN 2018-19

Fink Farms

First Federal Savings Bank

First Financial Bank

First Savanna Savings Bank

Fisher Amvets Auxiliary Post

Kenneth & Jill Hartwig

Eric Henderson

William & Nancy Henning

Dennis & Joan Hermes

Chad & Heidi Hertz

Isaac Abramowitz

Todd &Melissa Adcock

Addieville Lumber Company, Inc.

Advantage One Credit Union

Mary Ann Akey

Mark & Kimberlee Alber

Randall & Janet Allen

Al's Quality Service, Inc.

Jeffrey & Linda Altheide

Craig Anderson

Joseph Anderson

Rikin Asher

Brent & Denise Augustin

Lawson & Martha Barclay

Jason & Jennifer Beard

Elizabeth Beck

Carl & Bonnie Becker

Douglas & Donna Behrens

Dean Bekas

James & Nancy Bell

Jeffrey & Susan Binkley

Kenneth & Marcia Blumer

Kathryn S. Boehle

Harvey & Judith Bradshaw

Bray Farms

Donald Bricker

Kara Brockamp

Pamela Brockman

Vicky Brockmann

Courtney Brooks Brothers Inn Family Restaurant

Brownfield Ag News

Buck's Decorating Center

Mark & Celia Buss

Merlin & Merla Bussan

Butler Land Co.

Jason & Mary Cabell

Jeremiah Cantlon

Eldon & Jerilyn Carroll

Allen & Marcia Carter

Clifford Cartwright

Central Illinois 4-H Club

Camp Association

CGH Medical Center

Chadwick Achievers 4-H Club

Chadwick Lamplighters HCE

Chadwick Oil & Ag

Ralph & Cathy Chapman

Jenna Choo

Citizens State Bank

Clark Carroll Insurance

Agency, Inc.

CME Group Inc.

Henry & Nancy Coan

Brandon Wilkening & Patricia Coil

Mark & Julie Cole

Roger & Ruth Cole

Shirley Cole

Lisa Cole

Community State Bank of Rock Falls

Compeer Financial

Dick & Lindsay Cooley

Ryan Cooper

Mervyn & Karen Correll

County Line Farms

Mary Jane Craft

Judy Cresap

David & Jane Crockett

Kim & Lynn Curry

Denise Dalton

Kimberly & Dana DannMessier

Jonathan Davis

Del Monte Foods, Inc.

Mary Dickman

Roger & Dianna Dickson

Dixon Area Garden Club

Peixian Dong

John & Louise Dorenbusch

Doven Ho Farms

Dun & Bradstreet Corporation

S. C. & Linda Dunphy

Duraclean Specialists, Inc.

Eastland Fabrication LLC

Eastland Feed & Grain Inc.

Eastwing Mfg., Co. Inc.

Scott & Jennifer Edgcomb

Roberta Edler

Harold & Martha Edwards

Charles & Mariellen Ehredt

Stanley & Marilyn Eisenstein

Roger & Sallie Ellingson

Gene & Loretta Elliott

Kent & Kelly Epplin

John Espinoza

Dennis Etnyre

Eureka Tractor Pull Committee

Express Scripts Foundation

Fair Meadow Farm, Ltd.

Ronald & Julie Fandel

Farmers National Bank

52

Melinda Flegel

Betty Fleming

Peter & Joan Flynn

Charles & Tricia Foran

Patsy Forbes

Harold & Debbie Force

Daniel & Sherry Frachey

Franklin Grove Township

James & Gwynne French

James Frisbie

David Frisse

Delbert & Noreen Frye

Dennis & Janice Fryer

Fulton Saddle Club

Garden Gems Greenhouse

Gateway FS, Inc.

Fred & Deborah Gatzke

Generations Electric & Service Company

Susan Geshwender

Bill & Doris Gettings

Nancy Gohlinghorst

Francisco Gonzalez

Google, Inc.

James & Deborah Goss

Brian Greene & Nicole BauerGreene

Edna Greenwood

David & Guylia Grigsby

Greg & Annette Gruhn

Caryl Guffey

Donald & Jill Gurke

Hahnaman Township Town Fund

Christine Hall

Kristin Hall

Robert & Claire Hamilton

Harris & Kay Hammer

Harrington Farms

William & Laura Harris

G. D. Hess

Doug & Beth Hileman

James & Marilee Hixson

Richard & Gayla Holmes

Edward & Marilyn Hopkey

Hopkins Township

Barbara Hopkins

Audrey Hubbard

Hugh F. Miller Insurance Agency, Inc.

Huston Farms

Illinois Association FFA

Illinois Humanities

Ward Haselhorst & Judy

Jacob-Haselhorst

Nalini Jayaraman

Pegram & Bonnie Johnson

Russell & Carol Johnson

Elizabeth Johnston

Jeffrey & Nancy Jones

Sandra Jones-Schauble

Mollie Kaplan

Chris & Reba Karr

Julie Kaufman

Thomas & Shelley Kelch

Matthew & Diane Kerekes

Wes & Ann Kimes

Catherine Kirby

Deborah Koehn

Kenneth & Janice Koelkebeck

Karen Kramer

Raymond Kreig

Frederick & Sally Kuhlmeier

Kevin & Kathryn Kuhnert

Stephen & Susan Jo Lafferty

Lake Carroll Women's Club

Allen & Patricia Lambert

Michael Larsen

Steven & Margaret Larson

Lee County Farm Bureau

Lee County HEA

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

“4-H transforms young lives in positive, incredible ways. 4-H puts youth into new situations in a safe environment with the tools to succeed. When they succeed, they develop confidence that lasts them the rest of their lives.”

Karl Barnhart

GIVING: FIRST-TIME DONORS IN 2018-19

Paul & Marsha Lee

Roger & Rosemary Lee

Leffelman & Associates Inc.

Marilyn Lesmeister

Kenneth Lindahl

Michael Linder

Joe & Cynthia Litchfield

Phillip & Patricia Livingston

Virginia Lowery

Morgan Lynch

Charles & Susan Maltese

Management Accounting Services

Marion County Savings Bank

Marley Pork Farms Inc.

Larry & Christy Martin

Ryan & Julie Masters

Jim & Mary Masterson

Karen McCollum

McCormick's Nursery & Landscaping

Julia McCutchan

James & Carolyn McGath

Paul & Lisa McHone

McLean County Association for Home & Community Education

Chad McQuade

Brad & Betsy Meisenheimer

Jay & Catherine Menacher

Mary Meusel

Milledgeville Veterinary Clinic

Jill Miller

Morrison Veterinary Clinic

Jeff Mosley

MSA Sales II Inc.

E. D. & M. L. Mulligan

Michael & Kathy Mullins

Laura Nadelhoffer

Joseph Nannini

John & Anne Nation

Darrin & Lanie Nelson

Lisa Nelson

Marshall & Julie Newhouse

Scott & Laura Niermann

Northern Illinois Diesel, Inc.

Dave & Cathy Oloffson

Carlos Ortiz

Arthur Paine

Palmyra Township

Allen Park

Mary Parker

Sidney Parks

Eric Pass

Peter & Laurie Pasteris

Bonnie Paszkiewicz

Thomas & Susannah Patten

Patti Group, Inc.

Illinois 4-H Foundation Board

“I serve the Illinois 4-H Foundation to help youth succeed. It’s rewarding to meet new members and watch them grow in the programs.”

Robert Perkins

Perry County HCE Board

Perry County Home and Community Education Association

Mark & Betty Peterson

Robert & Anita Petrich

Larry & Jan Pfeiffer

Prophetstown Farmers Mutual Insurance Company

Todd Pinkerton-Riegel

Eva Pino

Rex Piper

Place Insurance Agency

Plainwell Brass, Inc.

Steve Planson

Peg Planson

PPG Industries Matching Gift Program

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

Stephen & Diann Priebe

Kim & Beverly Primmer

Gayl Pyatt

Vlada & Dragana Rajic

Randolph County Extension & Education Foundation

D. W. Rawson

RC Consulting, Inc.

Red Bud Masonic Lodge

#427

Renaissance Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Albert & Diane Renken

Joseph & Sandra Revell

Rock River Lumber and Grain Co.

Rockford Ball Screw Company

Jan Romenesko

Albert & Susan Roszczyk

Rotary Club of Keller

RSM US LLP Foundation

Lonnie & Melinda Ruppert

Robert Russell

Steven & Donna Russell

Nancy Rutledge

David & Ann Ryder

Daniel & Diana Saavedra

David & Carolyn Saidel

Debra Samuelson

George & Marilyn Satterwhite

Michael & Vicki Scharringhausen

Melvin & Ruth Schlueter

Johnny & Barbara Schmid

Donal & Loretta Schmidt

Kathleen Schmidt

Douglas & Stacy Schroeder

Lynn & Joanne Schwandt

Michelle Schwartz

Lewis & Louise Schweizer

Gary & Julie Seibold

David Seidel

John & Debra Shapland

Sherrard 4-H

Michael Shore

John Simonton

Richard Sinclair

William & Mary Sisler

Kathryn Slack

Krystina Slack

Ronald & Beth Slade

Charles & Patricia Smith

Robert & Marcia Smith

Grace Smith

Soaring Eagles 4-H Club

Terry & Melinda Spangler

Jerrold Spinhirne

Sterling Federal Bank

Rita Stewart

Dale & Virginia Stierwalt

Bradley & Kristi Stout

William & Ann Strawson

Sub-Let Indians 4-H Club

Colleen Sutton

Sue Swail

Lynann Swinda

Taurin Tan-atichat

Emily Tanner

Susan Tanner

Russell & Charlene Taylor

Ted's Greenhouse, Inc.

JoAnn Templeton

The Chicago Community Trust

The First National Bank In Amboy

The Iuka State Bank

The Joyce Nies and Peter Witt Foundation

The Machine Shop

Charles & Jane Thompson

Eric & Jessica Tjarks

Top Ag Cooperative, Inc.

Thomas & Joyce Tournear

Town of Lyndon

Dan Turcza

Mary Turnbull

Kirk & Carrie Ummel

United Hairlines

Kenneth & Sally Urban

Calvin & Kim Vandermyde

Richard & Susan VanDyke

Veterinary Clinic of Prophetstown PC

Kayla Villegas

Shwetha Vincy

John & Sheryl Wagner

Waibel Farmland Services Inc.

Pamela Wallace

Jennifer Webb

Christian Weber

Shirley Welsch

Tim & Kim Wernicke

Thomas & Alice Wetzel

Robert & Carol Wetzel

Carl & Donna Wetzel

Mike & Diane Wheeler

James & Elizabeth Whetstone

Danise White

Wilberton Mutual Insurance Company

H. D. Williams

Kevin & Katherine Williams

Kenneth & Myrna Williams

Willow Creek Hard to Beat

James & Stephanie Wilson

Gregory & Melissa Wilson

Joyce Winch

Winterhaven Farms

Don & Jan Wissman

Maggie Witzenburg

Wolf Lake Terminals, Inc.

William & Kathryn Wolters

Karen Woolfolk

Carolyn Workman

Donald Young

Paul & Brigitte Young

Martha Young

Shirley Zulke

George Obernagel

4-H Foundation awards $49,000 in scholarships

college scholarships and awards another $20,000 in national conference travel scholarships to 4-H members annually.

We thank these donors for their support of excellence in our 4-H members.

Veterinary Medicine Association.

Endowment, Farm Credit Illinois, Nann Armstrong, Patricia Clickener, Lila Jeanne Eichelberger, Nellie R. McCannon Trust, Keith and Lissa Parr, Dorsey Murray, George Obernagel, and the Illinois 4-H Foundation

Sponsor: Illinois Farm Bureau and Affiliates

Sponsor: Illinois 4-H Foundation

Sponsor: H. Richard and Sarah F. McFarland Endowed 4-H Youth Leadership and Character Development Support Fund

Sponsors: LA-CO Industries, Inc. and the Illinois 4-H Foundation

Sponsors: Illinois Farm Bureau, Peter Johnson, Susan Moore, Keith and Lissa Parr, Katherine Razim, Ryan and Elaine Ruwe, Marvin and Elizabeth Schnitzler, Gerald and Linda Thiele, Lindsay Young, and Lisa Mauney.

| In 4-H, youth learn skills that lead to possible careers. Their talent advances with each year. Look at the difference just one year made for McKenna Bleem of Mason County. The photo below was from 2018. By 2019, she created this magnificent horse. McKenna is a third-year 4-H Teen Teacher. The creative teen is a Federation member and recently won the Visionary Award sponsored by Blick. She plans to study art in college. Photos: Judy Mae Bingman.

| 4-H was everywhere at the Farm Progress Show, thanks to this small, white and green lapel pin. 4-H alums working company booths at the show proudly donned the pin and shared great memories of their years in 4-H.

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

We knew if we put out a request to our , the response would be great. We had no way of knowing just the response would be. Nearly 4-H alums were working their company’s booths at the Farm Progress Show and helped us tell the 4-H story by wearing a 4-H alumni lapel pin. There is no doubt;

Photos: Judy Mae Bingman.

Susan Kissick, Adams County

Dennis Lingley, Bond County

Cindee Robinson, Boone County

Monico Nunez, Bureau County

Jim Ruter, Carroll County

Diana Herriott, Champaign County

Kathy Bates, Christian County

Aaron & Mary Ann Crome, Clark County

Denise Sinclair, Clinton County

Juli Stelle, Coles County

Bonnie Weger, Crawford County

Connie Koester, Cumberland County

Lisa Govig, DeKalb County

Sherry Fulton, Dewitt County

Walt Wright, Douglas County

Bradley Cash, Edgar County

Neil Fearn, Edwards County

Cindy Mathis, Effingham County

Janet Willenborg, Effingham County

Kimberly Rahn, Ford County

Cathy Hewlett, Franklin County

Lee Roy Knuppel, Fulton County

Chris Delach, Grundy County

Jeff Rister, Hamilton County

Janetta Flener, Hardin County

Shellee Fecht, Hancock County

Ralph and Marilyn Torrance, Henderson County

Christina Fleming-Kidwel, Iroquois County

Sharon Swisher, Jackson County

Louis Ochs, Jasper County

Sandra Kabat, Jefferson County

Judy Benz, Jersey County

Jim Feuerborn, Kane County

Pat Farman, Kankakee County

Christina Heidrich, Kendall County

Randy Newell, Knox County

Karen Pillion, La Salle County

The late Allan Esgar, Lee County

Cathryn Frisby, Livingston County

Pamela Tibbs, Logan County

Kevin and Kim Albert of Macoupin County

Carleen Paul, Madison County

Kane Austin, Marion County

DiAnn Kuehn, Marshall County

Bill Bree, Mason County

Norma Korte, Massac County

Robert and Karen Chatterton, McDonough County

Dawn Bihlmaier, McHenry County

Mark Schreiner, Menard County

Krystal Jungmann, Mercer County

Dorothy Schilling, Monroe County

Peggy Hampton, Montgomery County

Earl Hagemeyer, Ogle County

The late Jason Coulter, Peoria County

Agnes Thurston, Pulaski County

Amie Callahan, Rock Island County

Terry Bohn, St. Clair County

David Morrison, Sangamon County

James Sparks, Shelby County

Ron and Karen Horsley, Stark County

Karen Wilhelms. Stephenson County

Joe Grove, Tazewell County

Keith Ellis, Union County

Paige Brown, Vermilion County

Amy Quinn. Warren County

Angie Bowman, Washington County

Debbie Webb, Wayne County

Holly Healy, White County

Darren Mosher, Whiteside County

David and Lisa McMurtry, Will County

Donald Elliott, Williamson County

Ralph Koning, Winnebago County

Paul and Theresa McHenry, Woodford County

|

ILLINOIS STATE FAIR

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

Throughout its 150-year history, the University of Illinois has been the grateful beneficiary of many gifts of farmland, and the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences currently receives income from 6,100 acres of donated farmland held for its exclusive benefit. Income from the ongoing successful operation of a gifted farm serves as a perpetual funding source for the college’s land-grant mission.

“I think gifts like these are spectacular if you want to have a long-term commitment to making a difference,” ACES Dean Kim Kidwell said. “We can frame a gift agreement with anybody, in any way, that works for them. We can keep the ground and use the proceeds we get from leasing it to fund different types of activities, scholarships for students, operations for a farm, or for a faculty member.”

| Income from the Warren Farm helps attract new youth to 4-H, shares the 4-H brand, and helps youth to explore areas of interest. Recently, funds have specifically supported special interest club and club innovation grants. Photo: Mark Becker.

4-H TEEN TEACHER, FARMER CITY

“I have a lot of interaction with kids, and we get to learn a lot about food, science, and art through a bunch of different activities.”

Corissa Godbee, 15, Teen Teacher in agriculture, STEM, art, gardening, and cooking

WARREN FAMILY

“The Warrens were big believers in kids, in 4-H and in agriculture, and they believed this would be a good way to pass it on.”

The legacy of the Warren family started in 1955, when Elizabeth Warren gifted 40 acres of farmland to the University of Illinois as a memorial to her family. The intention of the gift was to support and promote Illinois 4-H and other youth agricultural programs, as well as long-term research. In 1996, an additional 80 acres were added to the gift from the estate of Milton W. and Claradine Warren, as a memorial to Milton and his sister, Anna May Warren.

ensuring new families grow from 4-H.

Dwight Huffstutler, farm operator and great-grandson of Elizabeth Warden

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL, CONSUMER & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES

Donating appreciated securities, such as stock or mutual funds, can be a tax-wise way to support 4-H.

 Avoid federal and state tax on the capital gain.

 Receive an income tax deduction (federal and most states) for the full market value of the gift if you itemize deductions on your tax return and have held the assets one year or longer.

Once you turn 70.5 years of age, you are required to take annual minimum distributions from your traditional IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans, and it is considered taxable income. A charitable distribution from your IRA directly to the Illinois 4-H Foundation helps you avoid that increase in taxable income and makes a lasting difference in the lives of young people.

A will is the easiest and most effective means to ensure that you fully provide for your family and that your assets are distributed as you wish. Gifts by will or bequests, both large and small, are very important. For more information about leaving a legacy gift or naming Illinois 4-H as a beneficiary of your retirement accounts, please contact Angie Barnard, 217-333-9295.

The CloverSeed is the joint publication of the Illinois 4-H Foundation and University of Illinois Extension 4-H and serves to show statewide impact of the 4-H program, made possible, in part, by the support of Foundation donors.

This report recognizes donors who have generously supported the Illinois 4-H Foundation. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of information. Please forgive any errors or omissions that may have occurred. We ask that you notify the Illinois 4-H Foundation of any mistakes so that we may correct our records.

Illinois 4-H Youth Development

Lisa B. Diaz Ph.D.

Assistant Dean and 4-H Director

Office:

801 N. Country Fair Dr., Suite E., Champaign, IL 61821 illinois4H@illinois.edu

4-H.illinois.edu

217-333-0910

Illinois 4-H Foundation

Angie H. Barnard

Executive Director

Office:

203 Mumford Hall, 1301 W. Gregory Dr., Urbana, IL 61801 illinois4hfoundation@illinois.edu 4hfoundation.illinois.edu

217-333-9295

Editor/ Lead Writer: Judy Mae Bingman

Supporting information and photos: Angie Barnard, Mark Becker, Judy Mae Bingman, Becky Buckrop, Rachel Hazen, Patricia Huffer, Johnna Jennings, Amy McCarty, Angela Miller, Emily Smith, Cheryl Timmerman, Matt Wiley, Anita Wilkinson.

University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, Urbana-Champaign, Illinois © Copyright 2019, University of Illinois Board of Trustees

United States Department of Agriculture | Local Extension Councils Cooperating

Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension Work, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Shelly Nickols-Richardson, Director, University of Illinois Extension. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment.

Copy Editor: Samantha Koon

Designers: Judy Mae Bingman, Ben Arthur

ILLINOIS 4-H FOUNDATION PROJECT PARTNERS

Our are for youth to learns skills for living by supporting Illinois . Join the growing list of businesses and organizations making the .

The Illinois 4-H Foundation is joining forces with outstanding corporations, organizations, and trade associations that support 4-H programs, events, and members.

We gratefully recognize our Project Partners for collaborating with us as we engage young people in service and hands-on learning addressing current issues in Illinois.