2020 Illinois 4-H Foundation CloverSeed Annual Report

This has been a year that none of us would have imagined. We launched the program year in September 2019 with excitement for the many things planned, not realizing how drastically things would change by the spring.

The stories shared in this issue of the Illinois 4-H Cloverseed demonstrate and . They reflect the of 4-H, using our heads, hearts, hands, and health to and our world.

I am so proud and uplifted by the examples of 4-H youth, families, staff, volunteers, alumni, and donors stepping up to the challenges presented this year. Each of you have inspired others through your example, demonstrating that .

This is how 4-H started more than 100 years ago, creating clubs in which youth practiced and applied cutting-edge agricultural practices that even adults were, at times, reluctant to try. And today, 4-H continues to , ensuring our youth are prepared for success in a changing world. Through it all, we’ve held steadfast to the principles of serving others and using knowledge to

Our theme for 2020-21 is “Stronger Together,” and I believe that to be true now more than ever. I am grateful for the and you have shown as we adapt to unprecedented circumstances. And, I am grateful for your generosity in contributing time, talents, and resources to ensure youth across Illinois continue to have a safe space where they can thrive.

ThemessageIwant toshare withyouisthis: Ourworldishurtingright now,buttheyouthandfamilies ofIllinois4-Harehelping.

Why is 4-H different? Why has 4-H survived and thrived for more than 100 years? When alumni list the influences to their success, why is 4-H first on their list? It’s our foundational beliefs that guide every action, every policy, every opportunity, and every interaction.

WhatWeBelieve

: We believe allyouth can grow when they’re surrounded by people who are cheering for their success. That’s why we bring youth together in clubs, led by caring adults, who welcome them as part of a larger 4-H family.

: We believe allyouth should be active participants in their future and have opportunities for self-determination. That’s why we allow youth to choose their 4-H journey based on their own interests with opportunities for discovery, skill building, and leadership.

: We believe allyouth should see themselves playing a part in their community’s success, so they understand their value to the greater good in a global society. That’s why we provide both individual and collective opportunities to serve and help others.

: We believe allyouth should have many paths to learning, so they can master skills needed for happiness in family, career, and community. That’s why we provide mentors and opportunities for guided learning.

We believe allyouth, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, faith,orientation, interests,or abilities, deserve a place where theycan thrive and achieve a betterfuture. Illinois 4-H is committedto eliminating any instance of discrimination or inequity within our program to support opportunityfor all youth.

“Oneday, you’re going to age out and close your show box for the last time. I promise you, it’s not “the banners or shows you’ll miss. It’sdoingchoreswithyourdad.”

JennaWheeler,MorganCounty4-H

LIFE IN A PANDEMIC

In May, Jenna Wheeler and her family had a big decision to make. With a barn full of show pigs and goats bound for the summer showring, and a cascade of cancellations due to the coronavirus pandemic, what should the family do?

Raising livestock is expensive, but some of those expenses are offset by prize money and the sale of livestock after the show season. With the immediate future in doubt, the teen told her story on social media.

Former Extension staff, 4-H alum, and longtime judge Jeannea Shier judged clothing at six virtual county shows and the 4-H state fair this year.

"Though I couldn’t talk to the exhibitor, couldn’t see each seam of their garment, I did notice these things: kids learned valuable life skills. Kids smiled in the photos because they knew they had accomplished something important. They did their best; I did my best. And, next year, we will all make the best better again as we always have!"

This same discussion played out in barns across the state as the lingering effects of the health crisis wore on. Though many expressed disappointment when 4-H shows transitioned to an online format, Jenna took the long view.

Lee Rincker is a veteran livestock judge from Shelby County. "While I do not believe virtual shows replace an in-person event, given the circumstances, it gave exhibitors a goal to work toward and allowed them to showcase their work. From my perspective, I like that an exhibitor can replay their video and read the judge's comments. It is a little bit like watching game film."

In this issue, we feature the innovative ways that members and volunteers adapt to the challenge with grace, style, determination, and, yes, fun.

: “The action, leadership, and service taught through 4-H has never been more important for our world than it is today. In these uncertain times, 4-H has proven that we are stronger together, even when we are separated by physical distance.”

4-H members focus on what matters most.

STRONGER TOGETHER: COMMUNITY SERVICE

Across Illinois, 4-H members made masks for first responders, healthcare providers, and community members.

one 4-H club and its leader have made more than 400 masks for local healthcare providers who are in need of personal protective equipment.

Atlanta Ag 4-H Club members Molly and Cavit Schempp made 33 face masks for the Atlanta Fire Department, Atlanta Rescue, and Lincoln Rescue.

4-H member Jillian Donkle handstitched more than 50 masks that she delivered to customers on her newspaper delivery route.

Tri-City 4-H Club members

Devan and Wyatt Buckles made and donated 35 masks to the Mechanicsburg Fire Department.

4-H clubs and members have collectively made 2,100 masks, as well as cards for hospitals and nursing homes.

4-H member Katelyn Ashton sewed more than 50 masks and surgical caps for healthcare workers in Urbana. The scrub caps have buttons on the sides where masks can be attached to relieve band pressure on workers' ears.

Claire Holland (right) put her sewing skills to use by making and donating masks for patients at the Effingham Cancer Center.

Yorkville family inspires community to become mask makers.

4-H volunteer Charlotte Wyncoop organized a community effort to provide masks to area healthcare workers. Known as the Yorkville Area Mask Makers, more than 425 people sewed and donated thousands of masks to healthcare workers, first responders, nursing home staff, and other frontline workers. All of the participants, 4-H club members, 4-H volunteers, adult community members, and other sewers had one common goal: to supply personal protective equipment to those who needed. In partnership with her local 4-H staff, Wyncoop also offered a two-part, online mask sewing class for beginners.

| Leader Charlotte Wyncoop (right) spearheaded the mask project. She is pictured with her children (back to front) Corwin, Angeleah, Theo, and Serafina.

STRONGER TOGETHER: COMMUNITY SERVICE

Before the pandemic, about 1.3 million people in Illinois did not know where they would get their next meal. As a result of job losses and other factors, this number has grown. 4-H members responded to the needs in their local communities.

Erin Kistner develops healthy meal bags for high school students to discretely take home over the weekend. When Hillsboro schools closed their doors in March, she adapted the program so buses could deliver bags of five meals directly to students at their homes once a week.

4-H leaders and members coordinated and packed food boxes just before Illinois’ stay at home order went into effect. With help from volunteers and financial backing from the Farm Bureau Young Leaders, 37 4-H members and volunteers packaged 10,152 meals. The boxes were delivered to local food banks and churches.

Box gives hope to residents in need.

4-H members Courtney and Cody Kirby built and installed a free community food and supply pantry for their town, Liberty. People are invited to take what they need from the Hope Box. Others are encouraged to contribute what they can to stock the box.

Charlie and Lola Pierson created a produce stand out of an old smokehouse, where they sold produce and sweet corn. When farmers markets reopened, they added wildflower bouquets. They also created a little free library where people could get books to read while the local library was closed.

families in the New Lenox Explorers

4-H Club took turns over the summer harvesting veggies from their club garden, which they donated to a local food pantry.

| | Cody and his sister, Courtney, built the Hope Box to help address food insecurity in their community.

feeders, bringing joy to the 26 residents.

OMMUNITY SERVICE

In addition to health concerns, vulnerable members of our communities, isolated from their families, faced H members found creative ways

H members sent letters and cards to residents of the Open Door Rehabilitation Center.

H member stopped by the United Methodist Village, a nonprofit healthcare

Olivia Freyermuth of the Prairie H Club handmade notes and cards for neighbors, friends, and elderly family members to

Hers learned delivering flower pots to friends and family in the area, in partnership with the Eastland FFA chapter that provided the plants and

minute

“Project Cheer” video, which featured performances and demonstrations. The video was shared with local nursing home residents during the stay at home order. Watch it at https://youtu.be/vdHFwepZ1hs

Grace and Emma Heepke of the Hooves, Paws, and Claws 4-H Club brought their horses to visit residents at Eden Village.

STRONGER TOGETHER: COMMUNITY SERVICE

STEM-focused 4-H clubs with access to 3D printers and materials have been working to print and assemble face shields as additional personal protective equipment for healthcare workers.

Robotics club 3-D prints thousands ofshields.

3D printing has become a way of life for Kane County’s got robot? 4-H club and FTC team. Usually, the printers make parts for the club’s robots; however, since March, members worked together, yet independently, to print face shields for healthcare workers. By August, 4-H members, ages 12 to 17, had printed more than 6,500 shields, which they donated locally and across the country. In addition to the team printers, they used nine additional personal or borrowed printers.

These 3D printed face shields have gone to hospitals, first responders, nursing homes, and more, ranging from the team’s hometown of Elgin to Chicago and Texas. Their efforts were celebrated by National 4-H. The team also mobilized three other local robotics teams by sharing files and tips. Members felt it was a perfect way to couple their technical expertise with the 4-H ideal of serving others and bettering the world.

members of the Ctrl-Z FIRST Robotics 4-H Club are using their 3D printers to make face shields for medical staff at local hospitals. "We are trying to have the youth see the benefit of helping others," says Bob Smith, assistant coach and volunteer leader for the club.

the Carlock and Schempp families assembled 350 face shields as part of the Atlanta Ag 4-H Club. Half of the shields were sent to Chicago and half were taken to Louisiana.

| Got robot? member Evan Sass delivered face shields to Mount Sinai Hospital.

"As 4-H clubs and FIRST teams, we are trained to jump in and help whenever helpis needed."

BobSmith,Ctrl-ZVolunteerLeader

| Fifty of the Ctrl-Z face shields are used daily by the therapy team at White County’s Wabash Christian Retirement Homes, where 4-H alum Jenny Mae Howard (right), a speech-language pathologist, treats residents.

ElizabethWeidner, 16, of Dieterich is therecipientof the 2021 National4-H Youthin Action Pillar Award for Civic Engagement for her advocacy for pediatric cancer awareness, research, andfunding, andher commitment to supporting thefamilies of pediatric cancer patients.

“4-H has set me up for a lifetimeofself-discovery,growth,andinspiration. It has helped me see challengesasopportunities. My legacy will not be wealth; my legacy will be what others have learned from me. The mark I leave will be felt for a long time."

Elizabeth

Weidner,4-HMember

GLOBAL CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

Effingham County teen is National 4-H Youth in Action Civic Engagement winner.

Elizabeth Weidner faced the overwhelming reality of a pediatric cancer diagnosis at age 12. During her first hospital stay, her family made many trips to the store. Elizabeth launched a program to collect toiletries and snack food for local children’s hospitals to help families like hers. Partnering with 4-H clubs and friends, Elizabeth has donated more than 60,000 items to five different children’s hospitals for families of pediatric cancer patients.

Elizabeth advocates for childhood cancer awareness, research, and funding. Her 4-H experiences equip her to confidently advocate for childhood cancer research on Capitol Hill. As Junior Miss Effingham County Fair Queen, she created Crowns Fight Cancer and furthered that mission as Miss Central Illinois Outstanding Teen 2020.

“4-H has empowered me to grow as a leader, not only in my community and state, but on the national level in spite of my long journey with Stage IV High Risk Neuroblastoma cancer," Elizabeth says.

Elizabeth works closely with a number of advocacy groups in the battle against childhood cancer, along with helping Ronald McDonald Houses and Children's Miracle Network Hospitals in multiple states. Elizabeth uses her 4-H and pageant experience to tirelessly advocate for those too weak to speak. She finished an extensive social media campaign during National

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month while being treated at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. She is one of four American Childhood Cancer Organization/Amazon Ambassadors.

She is a national ambassador for American Cancer Society #GoldTogether, working with youth to raise awareness and action. This past relay season, she raised $23,000 for her Effingham County Crowns Fight Cancer #GoldTogether team.

The Weidner family is a multi-generational 4-H family. Elizabeth's parents, Jennifer and Matthew, are 4-H alums. Her three brothers are members of the Country Cousins and several special interest clubs.

“It truly has been a family affair with 4-H at every level," Jennifer says. “We are absolutely thrilled at the opportunities 4-H gives youth, from city to country, as a place for everyone to succeed!”

Elizabeth doesn’t let hospital visits stop her from being active. “Because of my disease, I’ve had to be creative, innovative, and think outside of the box. Kids can’t fight cancer alone; communities can’t progress without active participation; and adults can be influenced by the actions of kids."

So, Elizabeth continues her quest with courage, determination, and a smile that melts hearts wherever she goes.

with the toughest challenge a child needed to overcome: cancer!"

"At the time of my diagnosis and subsequent relapses, 4-H has been my constant companion, encouraging me to be who I am and teaching me to be resilient when life presented me

They’re known as the Green Shirts, and to Illinois legislators, they’re the face of Illinois Extension 4-H. For 10 years, 4 legislative office in Springfield twice each spring. They tell their 4 which, combined, create the Illinois 4

More than 30 4-H members representing 18 Illinois counties met at the Illinois State Capitol on March 4 and 5, 2020, as part of the Extension 4-H Legislative Connection event. While in Springfield, the teens speak on behalf of nearly 200,000 4-H participants in all 102 counties.

“These youth represent the Illinois 4-H Youth Leadership Team and 4-H members trained through the Speaking for Illinois 4-H program,” says Pat McGlaughlin, Extension 4-H youth development specialist. “They have been active in their local 4-H clubs and communities, planning and implementing community service projects and 4-H learning experiences that include STEM, animal sciences, healthy living, and civic engagement.”

Due to COVID-19, 4-H members were not able to participate in the second in-person Legislative Connection event planned for late spring 2020; however, many continued to reach out virtually to share the Illinois 4-H story.

| 4-H members receive advance instruction on advocating for the Illinois 4-H program. Training transitioned to virtual in the spring, allowing even more youth to become certified speakers and eligible for 4-H Legislative Connection in 2021.

: Rep. Dan Brady, 105th District, (center) met with Brady Veal (left) of McLean County and Kate Henkel of Woodford County at the March 2020 4-H Legislative Connection.

“4-H hasgiven me the opportunity tomeet and buildrelationships with local legislators and have my voice be heard about 4-H, an organization that I ampassionate about.

BradyVeal,McLeanCounty

“It is no exaggerationto say that the first step in my career was joining my local 4-Hclub. Those meetings were the first organizedevents in my life, outside ofchurchor school, andthey set me on a course that changed the trajectory of my life.” ChancellorRobertJones

Chancellor Robert Jones believes the 4-H mission is even more vital and critical today when limited access to childhood educational opportunities leads to unacceptable upper limits on a life and career.

“I found educational opportunities that opened up a world that I never knew existed. 4-H taught me to dream big, and it is my privilege to be able to pay that gift forward today,” Jones says.

| 4-H clubs in LaSalle County were challenged to create a 4-H Clover character. Armed with foam board and the national 4-H emblem guidelines, the newly created 4-H ambassadors have brought smiles throughout the county.

| A Georgia native and 4-H alumnus, Robert Jones serves as the first African-American chancellor of Illinois' UrbanaChampaign campus.

“As we wrapup2020, a year dramatically disruptedby COVID-19, alesson for all 4-Hers, past andpresent, is that we are stronger together. No one personcan win this battle, but ifwe take a servant-leader’s mindset andact and work as a team, we will winthis battle, just as we have multiple challenges inyears past.”

DanKelley,Illinois4-HFoundationBoardMember

“To keep a child interested and motivated to learn more, first challenge them, just a bit, to make them slightlyuncomfortable. Let them practice until they improve their skills and are back in their comfort zone. Then, raisethechallengebara bit higher.”

CurtSinclair,Illinois4-HNaturalResourcesSpecialist

Today’s youth are under constant pressures to use electronic devices. To encourage more outdoor activities for our youth, Illinois 4-H developed several outdoor challenges to increase the proven benefit of spending time in nature.

: 4-H members enrolled in the Sportfishing project went fishing, then submitted photos of their catches with their measurements. Longtime fish camp volunteer Steve Moffitt provided new rods and reels for the weekly winners.

: This summer, 4-H members advanced through three levels of outdoor skills challenges and demonstrated their mastery in a variety of topics. Members selected at random from those who completed all levels received Gerber multi-tools provided by Illinois Pheasants Forever. We’re having fun in the outdoors with 4-H!

4-H members are working as Citizen Scientists, observing, collecting, and recording data about the environment, which will help advance environmental stewardship and care of the world’s natural resources.

Outdoor challenges allow youth to put away technology and explore nature.

| Tate Miller (above).

| Carter Swisher (left).

| Damon Dittmar (opposite page, left).

Water connects us all.

4-H Water Connects Us All teaches young people to use critical thinking skills to solve real-world ag and environmental problems. Activities in the National 4-H Ag Innovator Experience use everyday items to demonstrate how rain gardens, bioswales, saturated buffers, and bioreactors protect watersheds and wetlands to improve water quality in our communities.

Illinois 4-H Teen Teachers and Science Ambassadors teach the program in their own communities. When the pandemic hit, these teens adapted and developed a video series to allow teachers, parents, and youth to access the challenge online. The videos explore the water, nitrogen, and carbon cycles, as well as wetlands, watersheds, ecosystems, and engineering practices.

“I believe the youthwe teachand reach have the ability to become mentors themselves. They may even come upwith other solutions to protect natural resources andthe planet itself.”

SofieHeidrich,4-HTeenScienceAmbassador

“Many of us take water, a precious resource, for granted. I want everyone to understand how water contamination is a big problem in today’s societyand understandthis problem cannot be solved without working together as a team.”

Krish

Nangia(left)ofNaperville 4-HTeenScienceAmbassador

Study tests which nesting houses barred

Barred owls live throughout Illinois. They prey on various rodents, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and small fish. The owls nest in tree cavities and seem to prefer a nesting box with an open top; however, very little research has been done to confirm this hypothesis. Traditional owl nesting boxes have an overhead roof. The Illinois Raptor Center is experimenting with a partially open top to deter other species from taking up residence in the box. So, which box is better? 4-H is helping answer that question.

At more than 30 sites across the state, 4-H members have built and installed boxes as part of the 4-H Nesting Box Challenge. In JoDaviess County, the What a Hoot 4-H Club is working with the JoDaviess Conservation Foundation. Ben Steffes, site steward at the Valley of Eden Bird Sanctuary, helped the members scout potential nesting box placement locations. The barred owl nesting box project was a joint effort of 4-H, Master Naturalists, and the JoDaviess County Conservation Foundation.

| Members learned how to build each house, discussed the importance of GPS coordinates, and researched NestWatch, the monitoring program designed to track statuses and trends in the reproductive biology of birds. The boxes were set at the Schurmeier Teaching Forest near Elizabeth. Each member collects data for two weeks during this challenge. Members hike to each box and use an extendable fruit picker and personal cell phone to record a video of each box.

|

| Members built the boxes together, placed them in trees, and used trail cameras to monitor their use throughout the winter.

owls like best.

“It is agreat way to get people outside to grow anappreciation for our natural spaces andhelp the public understand the importance of land protection andstewardship.”

JessicaCarryer JoDaviessCountyConservationFoundation

• 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

“Livestock shows teach young people to work hard for something while respecting other exhibitors in the ring. Though competitors, they are quicktolendahandto anyone. Thebarnisjusta differenttypeofcommunity, as real and genuine as any town.”

DanJennings,4-HAnimalScienceEducator

EmmaFreebairn,LivestockAmbassador

ANIMAL SCIENCES

More than $500,000 awarded in SYPA Contest.

For 25 years, organizations have stepped up when asked to support young people’s pursuit of an ag education. More than $500,000 later, the Superior Young Producer Award continues to reward 4-H members who have pushed their education beyond the showring by demonstrating mastery in health and disease management, animal nutrition, food safety, herd management, and breeding.

| Livingston County; | Knox County; | Livingston County;

| Madison County; | Montgomery County; | Christian County; | McLean County; | McLean County; and | Clark County.

| Carroll County; | Carroll County; and | Livingston County.

:

“By providing my time and financial support, it's my way to be one of thousands of cogs in this huge enterprise we know as 4-H to create real avenues for the hundreds of thousands of growth opportunities for the 4-H youth across Illinois every year."

Twelve $1,000 scholarships were provided by the Illinois 4-H Foundation through gifts from the CME Group and Prairie Farms Dairy.

On a typical third Monday in June, 4-H members would be sweating the heat and humidity at the State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest. But, this year is far from typical. This year, the Stock Pavilion on the University of Illinois campus stood empty. Instead, 4-H members used technology to evaluate the livestock on the screen. Though the venue was different, excellence was still rewarded. Here are the winners:

FIRST PLACE: Livingston County

SECOND PLACE: McLean County

THIRD PLACE: LaSalle County

FOURTH PLACE: Christian County

FIFTH PLACE: Champaign County

FIRST PLACE: Woodford County

SECOND PLACE: Warren County

THIRD PLACE: Stark County

FOURTH PLACE: Christian County

FIFTH PLACE: Champaign County

FIRST PLACE: Ty Drach, Livingston County

SECOND PLACE: Preston Rhode, Livingston County

THIRD PLACE: Lauren Mohr, McLean County

FOURTH PLACE: Lizzie Schafer, Christian County

FIFTH PLACE: Sheridan Hank, Mercer County

FIRST PLACE: Kolby Causemaker, Stark County

SECOND PLACE: Knox Causemaker, Henry County

THIRD PLACE: Hannah Miller, Woodford County

FOURTH PLACE: Lane Beyers, Champaign County

FIFTH PLACE: Ellie Drach, Woodford County

Brooke Beyers, Ty Drach, Emma Freebairn, Sheridan Hank, Tanner Mickey, Emma Richardson, Skye Schumaker, Paige Van Dyke

Allyson Aves Boone County

Shelby Basham Kankakee County

Brady Clark Clay County

Paige VanDyke Clay County

Travis Wilke Richland County

Garrett Williams Richland County

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.

Dan Jennings, Extension 4-H animal science educator, and Johnna Jennings, Extension 4-H youth educator, transitioned the in-person program to online following COVID-19 restrictions. Watch the videos at go.illinois.edu/4Hembryology.

My students usually or always demonstrate these science abilities:

“Life is full of choicesandopportunities. What we do with these choices and opportunities can make the journeyallthesweeter. In 4-H, we have the pleasure to do work with others that make us all StrongerTogether.”

JohnnaJennings,4-HYouthDevelopmentEducator

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

The place where leadership journeys begin.

Junior high is a critical age in Illinois 4-H. It’s then that youth decide: do I stay, or do I go? “The Junior Leadership Conference, held in February, showcased all that comes next,” says Katie Duitsman, 4-H leadership specialist. “The delegates learn practical ways to improve their personal lives, as well as improve leadership skills they take back to their 4-H clubs, communities, and schools.”

Team-building activities help youth forge new friendships and expand their 4-H network. Participants learn about unique 4-H opportunities where they can build the skills needed for successful careers. This year, participants learned about food insecurity and packaged more than 9,000 meals to be distributed at their local food pantries. A fall virtual conference was also held as the event transitions to a fall activity.

The 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 and 4-H Foundation, Roegge Family, Scates Family, GROWMARK Foundation, and Worrell Land Services.

H youth are confident and committed leaders who make positive change in their communities by working together in partnership with other youth and adults.

In

This summer was different than past summers for Jordi Oliver. The 17-yearold Massac County 4-H member would typically fill her summer days with feeding, fitting, and showing cattle. Show mornings would start with hot coffee and walks from the tie-outs. While fewer days this year started by hitching the stock trailer to the pickup, what didn’t change for this Lake Land Community College soon-to-be freshman was her determination, or as she says in her award-winning 4-H speech, the

Jordi placed first in the Formal Oratory division of the Illinois State 4-H Public Presentation Contest. Her speech, An Industry Dissolving into Science, spoke of the trend away from meat production to lab-produced meat alternatives. In addition to the lower nutritional value and reduced flavor of these products, Jordi explained the domino effect that lower demand for natural beef would have on beef producers and youth development.

“Livestock has taught me great qualities, such as hard work, dedication, and a passion for an industry I hope to someday pursue as a career,” Jordi says. “We’re going to take a stand and fight for our industry.”

Jordi was one of more than 100 participants in this year’s virtual speaking contest, with 40% competing in Jordi’s division. State contestants first competed virtually in a local contest to earn the right to advance.

the age of COVID-19, speakers up their game for virtual Illinois State 4-H Public Presentation Contest.

Uploaded videos were scored by a team of judges, who praised the youth for their elite presentations. Public speaking is such an important life skill, and Illinois 4-H is proud to help our members develop these skills and offer opportunities to make the best better, says Katie Duitsman, 4-H state specialist.

The Illinois 4-H Foundation, with financial support from Compeer Financial, provided assistance to transition to the virtual platform and sponsored awards to participants.

, Saline County 4-H member, earned first place in the Original Works division with her observation of today’s “bumper sticker mentality,” the tendency to look only at issues from the shallow, surface level instead of taking time to investigate the full meaning and consequences of beliefs.

“Short, controversial one-liners oversimplify complicated issues,” Rachel says. “Taking time to consider others’ viewpoints and perspectives helps to pull us out of shallow thoughts. We need to check in with ourselves to make sure we’re thinking critically.”

, a Stephenson County member of the Freeport Fantastics 4-H Club, won first place with her interpretation of an essay on bullying. The passionate teen walked through the journey from being a bully bystander to being bullied.

Additional top finishers include: :

Dellana Muck, Boone County (second)

Sophia Holmes, Cook County (third) :

Elusha Golovay, Bond County (first)

Zachariah Jalley, Macon County (second)

Mary Carlock, Logan County (third) :

Cavit Schempp, Logan County (first)

Holleigh Hiller, Washington County (second, tie)

Emily Rog, Will County (second, tie) :

Hope Kapelski, St. Clair County (second)

Willard Rozanas, Boone County (third) :

Mia Truhar and Nalia Warmack, Grundy County (first)

Justin Irwin and Lars Carlson, Boone County (second)

Simon and Olivia Truhlar, Grundy County (third) :

Averhy Sanborn, Champaign County (second)

Jenna Clemmons, Champaign County (third) :

Justin and Alexander Hartsell, DuPage County (first)

Cecilia and Maria Ochs, Kane County (second)

“Public speaking is one ofthe greatest life lessons gained from 4-H. Our 4-Hmembers continue to impress us withtheir resilience this year. They easily adaptedto the virtual competition.”

KatieDuitsman,State4-HLeadershipSpecialist

Illinois teens honored as National 4-H finalists.

Two Illinois teens were topfinalistsin the National 4-H Council Youthin Action Award contest. Erin Kistner of Witt andAjaCapel ofUrbanawere each in the top three nationally for their respective divisions.

Nearly 2.3 million households in rural communities face food insecurities. Erin decided to do something to help students at her high school who don’t have enough to eat. With skills she learned at the 4-H Hunger Summit, she learned nearly 25% of the students at her school go hungry on weekends when they don’t have access to school lunches.

“This fueled my desire to help,” Erin says. She started a weekend food program that gives meals to students who might go hungry. When the pandemic closed schools in the spring, Erin adapted her outreach, providing 3,600 meals during the early months of the pandemic.

Erin credits 4-H with teaching her the communication and leadership skills needed for the program’s success, which earned her the healthy living division award. She is majoring in communications and hopes to be a television or radio broadcaster. Erin is the daughter of Denise and Tom Kistner and a 4-H member in Montgomery County.

Aja uses her hands-on, out-of-the-box thinking to her advantage. Because her learning differences made classroom studying difficult, Aja found support and belonging through a 4-H STEM mentor. She says the supportive environment helped her grow and flourish. She launched four 4-H robotics teams and created her own enterprise, See Me in STEM. The program brings STEM accessibility to minority youth, especially girls, throughout her community. From teaching coding to building drones, Aja works with diverse youth audiences.

Aja wants to change the STEM landscape, helping youth of color see that opportunities are open to them. She was a finalist in the STEM category and is on schedule to graduate high school at 16, on her way to a career in mechanical engineering. She is the daughter of Shawn Love and Parrish Capel, and a 4-H member in Champaign County.

Grundy County 4-H member Nalia Warmack has been named a National 4 True Leader. For years, Nalia has answered the call to serve. When COVID postponed in-person training, Nalia transitioned her trainings online. She hosted a cake decorating workshop as part of the virtual fair experience for Grundy, Kankakee, and Will counties.

“Nalia is a fantastic teacher with such patience and knowledge in her field. The kids were extremely engaged as she taught, and their creations turned out like professionals,” says Jamita Brown, 4-H youth development educator.

Nalia knows the value of opportunities. She credits where she is today to the skills she learned through 4-H. Nalia is working to provide more opportunities to Illinois 4-H members. She is a member of the Illinois 4-H State Leadership Team and has completed the Speaking for Illinois 4-H training.

“Being theyouthrepresentative on the Foundation Board is one ofmymost treasured accomplishments in 4-H. I havelearnedaboutworking with others, as well aslearning more about myself. I amhonored tohave served withsome of the most passionate of4-H supportersinIllinois.”

CalebGrover,Illinois4-HFoundationBoard

197 participants

Teen leaders across the state helped plan and facilitate virtual training sessions. The work continues as they plan virtual escape rooms, virtual activities, and additional virtual workshops for the winter and spring.

187 participants

Twenty teens took to their computers to share personal, first-hand stories of state, national, and international 4-H experiences. To spark interest, they shared photos, told stories, and walked through the application process for the 187 participants. We won’t be quarantined forever, and these participants will be ready to hit the road for exciting new opportunities.

Youth and adults from across the state were invited to learn more about how to be recognized for their work in 4-H. From recordkeeping to application processes, participants left with a better understanding of the new 4-H process. And, it worked; evaluations indicate youth who attended are 26% more likely to apply for awards in the future because of the training they received.

58 participants

The University of Illinois Collegiate 4-H Club, a group of recent alumni, worked with the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences to make the university come alive for the 58 participants who joined the evening webinar.

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

Choose the leadership role that best fits your style.

We know the secret: teens are motivated by different rewards. They have diverse skills. And, they like different things. To keep teens engaged, we offer many ways to lead. 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

Youth present a positive image of 4-H while they share H story with prospective members, donors, legislators, and the media.

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

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

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

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

Youth Leadership Team plans state events, workshops.

Twenty-one members from across the state are members of the 2020-21 Youth Leadership Team. This team coordinates various statewide 4-H activities, including Junior Leadership Conference, Speaking for Illinois 4-H, and the Illinois State Fair. Under COVID-19 restrictions this year, the team created virtual activities for 4-H members.

Caroline Ahrends | Logan County

Emma Coursey | Warren County

Naomi Dolan | Vermilion County

Anthony Joiner | Macoupin County

Ashleigh Janssenn | Tazewell County

Krish Nangia | DuPage County

Delaney Smith | Champaign County

Jordyn Swinford | Pope-Hardin County

Sara Timm | Marion County

Brady Veal | McLean County

Molly Warren | Knox County

We believe the value of a 4-H volunteer translates into diverse and valuable contributions to young people and to the communities where they live.

gained useful skills.

increased in confidence.

made connections in the community on behalf of 4-H. recruited and helped train new volunteers.

say volunteering with 4-H makes communities stronger. say volunteering with 4-H increases civic engagement.

Whiteside County 4-H members joined the local health department to encourage wearing masks in order to keep communities safe and healthy. Members are featured in this video: https://youtu.be/7SNVQUMKcw.

The data above was taken from a 12-state North Central Region 4-H Volunteer Study aimed at understanding and documenting the specific value and impact of 4-H volunteers.

“I believe 4-H prepared me in a lot of ways, especially with face-to-faceinteractionsand selling my product to customers.”

DJCain,KnoxCounty4-HMember

No stopping this bird business entrepreneur.

#1: Don’t be afraid to let others do parts of the job that don’t require your expertise.

#2: Overestimate expenses when planning a budget because there are always unexpected costs.

#3: The best advertising is having a good product that spreads by word of mouth. Do good work. Create good products and people will be happy and send others to you.

DJ Cain began raising Cornish-Cross chickens at age 10 as a 4-H project. Now, the University of Illinois freshman has expanded his meat poultry business to nearly 800 head. He credits 4-H with preparing him for the business and work aspects of his entrepreneurial venture.

“My 4-H friends, role models, and leaders push everyone to be better,” DJ says. “My project work helped show me what to expect from myself and taught me that not everything always works out as planned.”

DJ Cain Poultry received an extra boost during the pandemic. He was able to attend classes online and build additional chicken coops while staying at home. “As people became more aware of buying local, I processed my largest orders,” DJ says.

4-H creates pathways to successful careers by introducing youth to mentors who help guide their development and spark ideas about how interests can translate into engaging and fulfilling careers.

High school grads share how 4-H prepares them for next steps in their journey.

say they plan to attend college or trade school.

say they learned a skill in 4-H they’ll use in a future job.

say they know careers related to their 4-H project.

say 4-H made them believe they’d be successful in college.

say they learned time management skills in 4-H.

Michelle Cox, Extension 4-H youth development educator, created the 4-H Life Skills for Leadership program to build readiness skills for youth in Lake County. The program addresses current issues and increases opportunities for youth in low socioeconomic status areas to engage in activities that build leadership capacity. Using the University of Missouri’s Tackling the Tough Skills curriculum as a foundation, Cox developed a 10-week program that actively engages youth in building leadership capacity. Cox piloted the program in two urban high schools and was able to help youth identify and understand who they are, where they want to go, and how to get there successfully.

Based on 311 returned surveys

Over the past year, 100 new Latino/Hispanic youth in Cook County and the Chicagoland area participated. The program made its biggest impact at Bremen High School, Kellar Middle School, and Lincoln Middle School.

This last year started with fun and educational moments with families. The families enjoyed one-on-one Success Coaching sessions, which developed new skills for the 4-H club members. Meetings transitioned to virtual experiences in March.

In McHenry County, an additional 80 youth and parents participated in the 4-H Juntos program in 2019-20.

The program is supported, in part, by New York Life.

• reported Juntos helped them feel confident that they will graduate from high school.

• reported Juntos encouraged them to plan for their future.

• reported Juntos helped them to feel like a leader.

When you love the place you work, when you enjoy the people you work with, and when you believe passionately about the subject you write about, can you really call it work? Perhaps, you just call it life.

For 60 years, Orion Samuelson has mixed work with life so seamlessly that his broadcasts feel like friendly chats at the kitchen table. It’s that personality that gained him the trust of rural America.

No one commands a room like Orion. It’s the voice, surely, that deep, resonating voice. But there’s more to Orion than his thundering baritone. He deeply cares for the people whose stories he tells, and it shows.

Longtime friend Louise Rogers shares her fondest memories of the media giant. “Orion is the ultimate educator of agriculture to adults and youth. Whether it be during the annual Sale of Champions at the Illinois State Fair, interviewing 4-Hers during his noon shows, or ensuring that 4-H experiences were included on the resumes of scholarship recipients, Orion carried the values on 4-H in his heart and through his voice.”

“He held theaudienceof 4-H members spellbound as he spokeof hispersonalexperiences and the enduring values of4-H.”

Dr.Robert A. Easter, President Emeritus, Universityof

University of Illinois President Emeritus Robert Easter recounts one of those times. “During my time as interim dean of ACES in early 2002, I was asked to attend the National 4-H Centennial in Washington DC. It was a splendid affair, and the keynote speaker was Orion. He held the audience of 4-H members from across our nation spellbound as he spoke of his personal experiences and the enduring values of 4-H. I’ve never forgotten that moment and I have seen him repeatedly reaffirm his appreciation for 4-H in the years since.”

Illinois

Over the years, Orion has shaken hands with some of the world’s top leaders in agriculture and politics. His storytelling is a woven work of art that takes one on the journey with him

Orion told agriculture’s story from the center of Chicago. He retired from WGN Radio at the end of December, but not before doing one last 4-H story on Elizabeth Weidner, the courageous 4-H teen who, despite battling cancer, shines a bright light of hope.

Orion says that interview was one he’ll never forget. And, we can say the same thing about the man who earned the trust of the nation’s farm families and agriculturalists.

Judy Mae Bingman

Halum has been the trusted voice of Illinois agriculture for 60 years.

Orion

Samuelson (left) broadcasted his radio show from the ACES tent at the 2019 Farm Progress Show. He is pictured with ACES Dean Kim Kidwell.

4-H Teen Teachers in Illinois support the work of bringing educational experiences to more youth across the state. Educational programs in other organizations are typically led by adults. But, in 4-H, we embrace and believe in the potential of young people to use their skills to teach others.

4-H Teen Teachers bring their passion, prior learning, and experience in a range of project areas. Illinois 4-H currently has several programs that were designed to be delivered by teens to younger audiences, including Health Rocks, a healthy lifestyles curriculum with the goal to reduce alcohol, drug, and tobacco use. Other Teen Teacher-led programs range from robotics design and coding to healthy cooking skills for younger youth and teaching digital literacy skills for senior citizens.

“I continue to be a 4-H Teen Teacher because of the satisfaction I get from seeing the kids have fun doing the activities we make forthem. I like having fun with the kids and getting them involved. I gain the experience of teaching and patience with being involvedin 4-H.”

“I never realized the amount ofwork teachers put into theirlessons. I learned how to deal with kids and prepare a successful lesson.”

“I love seeing the kids learn, and the friendships I developedwith the other teachers is also great. It’s a good use ofmy free time because I’m helping people learn.”

| Kevin Banks is a Teen Leader from Egyptian High School.

| These 4-H teens lead food preparation classes.

| 4-H Teen Teacher Morgan Drozs (left) helps Aubrey Kile explore art.

| Kallee Steinkamp (left) practices her teaching skills with Emily, Lexi, and Wesley | Teens receive training in teaching, and engagement.

“As youth, we are in a unique position to take personalactionto contain the spread of the virus and protectourat-risklovedones. Wearing a mask is not about protecting ourselves; it is about protecting those who are most at-risk for serious illness.”

AndreaMiller,FranklinCounty4-HMember

4-H member moderates Public Health meeting.

When state public health leaders gathered, Illinois 4-H member Andrea Miller of Franklin County was at the table and served as moderator. Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozie Ezike talked about the challenges of the pandemic for young people.

“It was an honor to be able to represent the youth of Illinois by facilitating a conversation with such a distinguished professional as Dr. Ngozi Ezike,” says Andrea. “It was a great feeling knowing that the public health leaders in Illinois want to hear the youth perspective.”

To engage youth, the IDPH announced a mask design contest. “We are excited to be partners in the IDPH YesUCan campaign,” says Lisa Diaz, assistant dean and director of 4-H. “Together, we’re bringing youth voices to the table to inform strategies in Illinois that will help our communities stay healthy and strong.”

Andrea, a member of the Illinois State 4-H Youth Leadership Team, says she volunteered to facilitate the online discussion because the program was youth-

oriented. “I wanted to represent the youth and show them that their voices are being taken into consideration in regard to public health policy decisions; that we, the proud youth of Illinois, matter.”

Andrea attends Saint Louis University, studying health management and accounting, and plans to attend law school, concentrating on health law. She plans to advocate for long-term care policy reform and patients’ rights.

The 4-H pledge guides Andrea’s journey: “I use my head to read and understand the science behind COVID-19 in order to brainstorm activities that would be fun and safe for me to do. I use my heart to reach out to individuals that may be affected by the virus, both mentally and physically, to offer my support in their time of need. I use my hands to volunteer in programs that help the individuals in my community. Finally, I work to keep myself healthy, so I don’t pass this sickness to the vulnerable population.”

“I wanted to represent the youth and show them that their voices are being taken into consideration in regard to public health policy decisions; that we, the proud youth of Illinois, matter.”

“The words and actions of youthare more influential thanwe realize. The youthforum was a chance for youthto ask questions and share their perspectives.”

AndreaMiller

Teachable moments come in all shapes and sizes. Now, when those unexpected moments occur, parents and educators can rely on the new mobile app to help them take advantage in convenient and meaningful ways.

Terrific Teachable Moments is a simple, activity-based teaching resource developed by University of Illinois Extension. The program allows teachers, parents, and youth mentors to provide simple, hands-on learning experiences designed to help kids of all ages develop emotional awareness and make positive character choices.

The app includes over 150 mini-lessons and each can be done in under 10 minutes. Lessons are based on the 4-H Youth Development framework of experiential learning, which leads kids to participate in a short activity, reflect on the experience, and apply what they learn by connecting it to real-life situations.

All activities teach the six pillars of character: caring, citizenship, fairness, respect, responsibility, and trustworthiness.

Teams of 4-H members in Edgar County competed in a food challenge competition. Each team received the same mystery box of ingredients and was tasked with preparing a tasty, nutritious meal. Teams earned points for creativity, food quality, appearance, and group presentation skills.

“Terrific Teachable Moments is awonderful classroom resource. It lives upto its name. It gives teachers agreat opportunity to make connections withstudents ona social andemotional level.”

NathanHarrison,BushnellPrairieCityJuniorHighAssistanttothePrincipal

: Download the Terrific Teachable Moments app from your mobile app store.

: Pictured are Maddie Wheeler-Rhoads, Mack Kuglin, Adelyn Trapp, and Cash Kuglin in competition prior to COVID restrictions.

More than a slogan for teens facing stress.

According to the National Council for Behavioral Health, one in every four American adolescents has been diagnosed with a mental health disorder. Of those who experience a mental health disorder, 50% experience symptoms by age 14.

“Your Thoughts Matteris an award-winning 4-Hproject engaging youth in conversations about mental health.

Illinois Extension is offering interactive sessions withyouth to build their knowledge and equip them for difficult conversations about mental health, includingreachingout when they or others are havinga hard time.”

CourtneyCuthbertson,AssistantProfessor,UofI

Illinois 4-H is reaching out to teens about mental health, focusing on how to recognize signs and symptoms, how and who to ask for help, and how to apply self-help strategies to improve mental health. is a new 4-H program that addresses that need.

More than 100 teens participate in the Your Thoughts Matter Illinois 4-H SPIN clubs. The clubs create a place for members to learn more about helping themselves and helping others. The curriculum is designed for advanced level youth interested in learning more about mental health and steps that promote more positive understanding and action.

Teens engage in virtual hands-on activities and discussions that encourage understanding, empathy, and connection to other teens. Youth create antistigma campaigns, interview adults about perceptions of mental health, and identify self-help strategies that build resilience.

Now, teens are asking, “What’s next?” and have expressed interest in forming peer mentor groups where, with the support of a caring adult, they can stay connected to their peers and educate others on the importance of recognizing anxiety and depression in teens, especially with our elevated levels of isolation from friends and extended family during 2020.

, an Illinois Extension 4-H mobile app, gives you access to recipes, menus, and safety tips 24/7. Download the free app from your favorite app store. The app was developed with funds from the Illinois 4-H Foundation, raised through the sale of Our Favorite 4-H Recipes.

“Thebenefits go beyond the digitalliteracygained by the participants. The 4-H TechChangemaker teens enhanced their own communicationskillsand truly enjoy their interaction with the participants.”

JudySchmidt,4-HYouthDevelopmentEducator

STEM: SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING , MATH

Helping bridge the digital divide during COVID-19.

In a world packed with high-tech internet-connected gadgets and gizmos, it is easy to forget that many communities across Illinois lack both the hardware and basic connectivity needed to thrive in the current environment. This gap between those with access to high speed internet and those without is known as the digital divide.

To help bridge this divide and teach adults important skills, Microsoft trained 16 Illinois 4-H youth from eight counties as Tech Changemakers.

More than 2,000 adults in Bureau, LaSalle, Lee, Livingston, Peoria, Putnam, Rock Island, and Whiteside counties participated in digital literacy trainings, both in person and virtually. Topics included working with electronic devices, navigating online banking systems, and using social media.

Working closely with a core team of dedicated staff and volunteers, the Tech Changemakers developed trainings focused on the most pressing issues facing their communities. Through this process, youth analyzed communications and census data and learned about many of the barriers preventing people from adopting new technologies.

In the early stages of the program, the Tech Changemakers found much success partnering and holding trainings at local nursing homes and community centers. After learning some of the adults were uncomfortable or lacked skills with technology, these motivated youth volunteered to help.

“I’m excited to teach people who don’t know about technology,” says Libby, a Livingston County 4-H member.

As COVID-19 prevented face-to-face trainings, the Tech Changemakers created a Zoom safety video that reached 806 people and an internet safety video that reached 1,220 people.

The Tech Changemakers are ensuring people have the skills to communicate in an increasingly digital world.

By elevating the abilities of older residents in the community, 4-H Tech Changemakers are making sure everyone has the skills to live their best digital lives.

Youth put thought into action.

When the nation was hit with the largest pandemic of the last century, Illinois 4-H put out a challenge to innovate a solution or tool to aid communities affected by COVID-19. Eight finalists from seven teams pitched ideas to a diverse panel of medical and public health experts. Two finalists won $1,000 in resources and guidance to aid in the rapid prototyping of their ideas.

The young innovators had two months to refine their ideas, explore different business models, and prepare for the live, virtual pitch event. Ideas included portable Sinkon-Wheels, Away Temp storefront thermometers, COVID Care-a-Lot care packages, face shields, and online interactive STEM engagement programs.

Youth discussed the motivation and potential impact of their ideas, as well as business models and sustainability.

May Yang and Maher Adoni of Champaign County were selected as winners. Their business, CoSignage, helps struggling local businesses market availability and services.

“As members of the Champaign-Urbana community, we noticed that small businesses were directly affected by the consequences of the virus,” May says. The duo

worked directly with the Illinois 4-H STEM staff to develop customizable and easily recognizable signs featuring icons for curbside pickup, mask required, and minority-owned. About 50 businesses currently use the signs in the community.

The 2020 COVID Idea Challenge demonstrated that when things seem at their worst, 4-H youth lead, inspire, and do what it takes to help their communities.

Ryan He of Champaign County, pitched his company, 3D Printed Face Shields (3DPFS), to help protect front line workers in contact with COVID-19 patients. He also received a $1,000 prize. His clear face shields are very lightweight and extremely affordable at less than 20 cents per shield.

“My design is a well-fitting, low-cost solution that still provides lots of protection,” Ryan says. His 3D printed face clip has pegs that connect to plastic sheets with holes. Ryan used his $1,000 prize to purchase three 3D printers, materials, and supplies to help him rapidly manufacture masks. Since the competition, Ryan has produced and donated hundreds of his face shields to local hospitals and clinics, and fulfilled an order for University Laboratory High School in Urbana.

|

Challenge winners

Maher Adoni and May Yang developed signs to help businesses communicate more effectively during COVID-19.

| Challenge winner Ryan He delivers his 3D printed face shields to a nurse at Carle Hospital in Urbana.

family is the Illinois 4-H Foundation 2020 Family Spirit Award winner.

Combined, the 25 4-H alumni of the family have 157 years of membership, with 75 years of combined club leadership and 36 years as 4-H volunteers. Their involvement spans 80 years, beginning with Everett, Jerry's grandfather.

Everett Theobald was one of the first leaders of the Buffalo Hart Boy's Ag Club. Organized in 1927, it was one of the longest active clubs until it disbanded in 2011.

Everett's four sons were 4-H members. Ray married Myrabel who would later become a 4-H leader. The couple supported their children, Jerry, Janis, and Jim, and cousins in their 4-H work. Projects for this third generation included Southdown sheep, sewing, and cooking. The group participated as club officers, junior leaders, Federation officers, and state fair delegates. Friends gained during Share the Fun skits, workshops, field trips, and fairs remain today, 60 years later, says Joan Stillene Theobald.

“What this fifth generation will chooseto do and become, we do not know. Onething is certain, 4-H will always be avaluable, meaningful, and cherished part oftheir lives.”

The fourth generation, six girls and one boy, added new projects to the list of favorites: photography, leather, ceramics, cake decorating, yeast breads, citizenship, and pastry. The activities expanded, too, including trips to Washington D.C., serving as camp counselors, and attending leadership conferences. The fifth generation has even more opportunities, Joan says, including shortterm specialized clubs focusing on robotics, archery, and rocketry.

“Most all of our career choices were influenced by 4-H membership and projects,” Joan says. “We are farmers, home economics teachers, dieticians, child development specialists, social workers, ag economists, and business owners. And, yes, we still enjoy cake decorating, visual arts, crafts, music, and drama.”

: Still empowering generations of youth.

JoanTheobald

“4-H is building their resiliency, their perseverance, their determination, and their problem-solving skills to facewhatlifethrowsatthem. Shooting Sports builds character, first and foremost.”

CurtSinclair,State4-HShootingSportsSpecialist

SHOOTING SPORTS

Focus and practice help youth reach goals.

It was supposed to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience; now, it’s another hard life lesson for 23 teens who have faced a series of hard lessons since the worldwide health crisis. These teens, selected as the top competitors of the Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports program, were to have competed in Nebraska at the National 4-H Shooting Sports Championships. For the safety of the competitors, families, staff, and volunteers, the 2020 event was canceled.

You won’t find a bigger cheerleader for the youth and the sport than Curt Sinclair, University of Illinois Extension 4-H natural resources and shooting sports specialist.

The cancellation was gut-wrenching for Sinclair, who had watched the youth hone their talent throughout the winter months after being selected during the 2019 fall state contests. Still, the veteran Extension staff member knew that this was one of many challenges these young people are yet to face in their lives.

State team members will be allowed to complete in the 2021 contest if they remain age-eligible.

: Gloria Bremer, Edwardsville; Paul Knipmeyer, Heyworth; Braden May, Metropolis; Hannah Hedman, Crystal Lake.

: Grace Shepard, Beecher; Morgan Drozs, Farmer City; Winnie Quiram, Danvers; Marissa Hughes, Shirley.

: Cole Haynes, Tonica; Kaden Mott, Mt. Pulaski; Blake Bryant, Mt. Pulaski; JB Bremer, Edwardsville.

: Ben and Isaac Snider, Havana; Michael Perkins, Marengo; Corrine Elswick, Hebron.

: Levi Nusz, Wyoming; Carter Carpenter, Iuka; Carson McGill, Ashkum; Brianna Hayes, Brimfield.

: Justin Pierard, Bloomington; Collin Haney, Metamora; Alexander Ford, Elmhurst.

: Kevin Knipmeyer, Kurt Willoughby, Bill Peterson, Ted Snider, Brad Haney.

“Mastery in 4-H is progressive; it begins by following the lead of a caring adult volunteer, then committing oneself to practice and maintaining focus to reach personal goals.”

“Stronger Together is about being unified,undivided,andunbroken. Each time you say the 4-H pledge, it is symbolic to how we are united as a club, a community, a country, and across the world. 4-H teaches you, froma very young age, that unityisgreaterthaneachindividualpart.”

BrianDeverman,4-HFoundationBoard

Photo: Judy Mae Bingman.

FOOD SYSTEMS

Innovation leads the way in food production.

In collaboration with the University of Illinois Department of Crop Sciences, Illinois 4-H is building the leadership capacity, college and career readiness, and problem-solving skills of Illinois youth by inspiring and sustaining engagement with emerging agriculture technologies and sustainable production strategies, utilizing an open source model for collaboration that encourages innovative approaches to agricultural challenges.

With financial support from the Illinois Farm Bureau and the Brandt Foundation, Illinois 4-H is developing several pilot sites where youth will work with adult partners to construct, troubleshoot, and implement educational programming with FarmBot technology. One of the sites is the Jackie JoynerKersey Center in East St. Louis. In addition, Illinois 4-H will partner with Elevate 217, an entrepreneurship incubator in Mattoon, to test the capacity of the FarmBot to produce vegetables indoors.

“In order to feed theworld's population in 2050, we need to produce 70% more food. Meanwhile, agriculture’s shareof global GDP hasshrunk to just 3%, one-third of its contribution just decades ago. We are entering aphasewhere innovation and knowledge-based approaches to agriculture challengesis becoming more andmoreimportant.”

Yiyang Chen, a University of Illinois crop science intern, has been instrumental in the development of the program. The sophomore in Agricultural and Biological Engineering has built two prototypes at the Sustainable Student Farm. Yiyang recently installed a FarmBot on a mobile garden bed. While its eventual home will be a community partner in Chicago, Yiyang will be using the FarmBot to produce vegetables this winter in a heated greenhouse.

Illinois 4-H is also part of a new initiative on campus promoting education and engagement with emerging agricultural technologies: AIFARMS. In the coming years, Illinois 4-H will work with campus partners to create activities and events for youth interested in cutting-edge agriculture.

“Throughout life, you’ll be called on to work as a team. Learning to build consensus and ensuring that everyone is heard is a valuable skill I learned in 4-H.”

MarkBecker,4-HFoodSystemsSpecialist

Working to create food-secure communities.

Our goal is to inspire the next generation of food access leaders through personal development, professional networking, and service-learning. Working together, 4-H Food Advocacy Team members will mobilize other youth in their communities to determine the local food needs and develop a plan to address food insecurities.

The Food Advocacy Team will host the Food Action Summit in Spring 2021. The summit will bring together youth leaders, food advocacy professionals, and academic experts to strengthen the growing youth movement for food secure communities in every part of Illinois. Food Advocacy Team members will play an essential role in the development and implementation of the summit, which will serve as a model for youth engagement around the state. The program is sponsored by the Illinois 4-H Foundation and Compeer Financial.

“Foodadvocacy impactseveryday life. It defines who we are as individuals, communities, and a society.”

JuliaHeller,AdvocacyTeamPresident

: “No one should go hungry. Everyone should be able to have healthy food available to them. Everyone should do their part to eliminate food insecurity.”

: “Food insecurity is a problem we can all help solve. On the team, I collaborate with a diverse group to design and implement solutions in our communities.”

worked with SNAP-Ed and Catholic Charities in a drive-thru mobile food market. Federation members helped sort produce and load food into people’s vehicles. “I enjoy helping others,” says Delaney Nation (pictured above).

“Serving on this team allows me to use my voice and position to speak for those who cannot be heard by educating others. It’s a

“Food insecurity affects all ages and backgrounds. It is our responsibility to work

people. It is crucial we share our solutions and

collected 3,000 pounds of food and $250 during a food drive in August. The effort will help feed over 300 families in Macon County.

built and installed a custommade fresh produce stand for Liberty. What began as a 4-H project has become a new passion for Marissa, who is part of the Illinois 4-H Food Advocacy program.

"4-H camp gave me a loveofnature. Living summer after summer by the lake, within the trees, and among the animals will always be something I am thankful for.”

LoriGregg,4-HCamper,turnedCounselor,turnedCreationStationTeacher,turned4-HClubLeader

CAMPING AND OUTDOOR LIVING

Lessons are many for lifelong 4-H camper.

Lori Gregg has spent only six summers away from 4-H Memorial Camp since 1994. She was a camper for seven years, then served as counselor for three years. In 2005, she began her adventure as a staff member in outdoor education. Under Lori’s leadership, Creation Station, the science based camp programming effort, thrived. From drones to robots, the school teacher has made science fun for thousands of young people. Lori has also been a Champaign County 4-H leader for 17 years.

What 4-H camping taught me

Lori Gregg

: No matter how well things are planned, things happen. I learned how to come up with backup plans and execute quickly.

: I never forget I am in charge of other people's children. You have a responsibility to take care of their wellbeing and provide the experiences they are expecting.

: Whether it’s working with others to create a skit, addressing a dining hall full of campers, or singing a song, you learn how to express what needs to be done!

: If you love what you are doing and are having fun, it is infectious!

: Living summer after summer by the lake, within the trees, and among the animals will always be something I will be thankful for.

COVID-19 couldn’t stop 4-H Memorial Camp from making the best better. When in-person camping was suspended during the pandemic, Camp Director Andy Davis focused on capital improvements. Volunteers from Farm Credit Illinois painted the cabins and made needed repairs. Service projects at 4-H Memorial Camp are a favorite among many employees.

“As part of avolunteer service challenge to employees, Farm Credit Illinois invites each team member to invest at least eight work hours annually to make a difference in the localmarketplace as a volunteer.” BethBolger

“Not only is it a great retreat to immerse ourselves in the outdoor beauty of Allerton Park, it is inspiring to hear stories of how the camp experience positively impacts youth as we work alongside camp staff. Many FCI employees are 4-H alumni themselves and have fond memories of their time as campers. They appreciate the chance to give back to the program which taught them to learn by doing,” says Bolger.

• New roof for the activity barn

• Dead trees removed and split for firewood

• New benches built

• Four new ovens installed

• New curtains sewn by volunteers for all cabins

• New water heaters installed in the bath houses

“Generous gifts like this provide opportunities for the next generation to learn and grow at 4-H Memorial Camp,” says Davis.

Pandemic provides opportunity to build, paint, imagine, dream.

WE MAKE MORE HAPPEN

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.

ILLINOIS 4-H FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT ON GIVING

When we get down to the basics of why the Illinois 4-H Foundation exists, it’s simple.

We believe more youth of all backgrounds should have access to every learning pathway 4-H offers.

We believe more youth, from farms and rural communities to cities and suburbs, should have experiences geared toward their community's culture.

We believe 4-H mentors should have more resources to reach more kids.

JULY 1, 2019 TO JUNE 30, 2020

4-H ANNUAL FUND (15%)

4-H PROGRAM-SPECIFIC (57%)

COUNTY-SPECIFIC SUPPORT (19%)

ENDOWMENTS (9%)

Help us Make More Happen because we think you believe the same thing as we do: that 4-H changes futures.

DONORS GAVE GIFTS.

FIRST-TIME DONORS.

ENDOWMENTS VALUED AT WITH ANNUAL INTEREST OF

Illinois 4-H Foundation Executive Director

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

Larry & Elizabeth West

Doris White

Lila Jeanne Eichelberger

R & D Walter Farm

Edward & Martha Gillespie

Illinois Farm Bureau

Thomas & Karen Klatt

Gary & Constance Stauffer

DeWayne & Verla Stevens

Jack & Sally Widholm

Donald & Pamela Denby

Carl Dumoulin

Eleanor Eisfeller

Paul A. Funk Foundation

Eldon & Betty Greenwood

Grace Haskins

Linda Hiltabrand

Ann Hodgson

Stanley Hoelzer

Mary Hoffman

John & Barbara Ibendahl

Illinois Department of Agriculture

Illinois Pork Producers Association

John Kustes

Glenn & Lorraine Lenschow

Sandra Lignell

John & Ruth McDaniel

Richard & Charlotte Myers

Walter & Lavonne Nelson

James & Sally Ramp

James & Nancy Roberts

Douglas & Kathleen Scott

Wilbert & Elizabeth

Stevenson

State Bank of Toulon

Gary & Ann Turner

Marvin & Muriel Watters

Robert & Karla Weldon

Larry Wilson

Anderson Foundation

Archer Daniels Midland Company

Compeer Financial

Russell & Joan Davidson

Stanley & Loretta Eden

First National Bank of Brownstown

Donna Fortney

Virl & Connie Hallett

Hartmann Farms, Inc.

George & Penny Hiler

John & Anne Huston

Ruth Johnson

Francis Kamerer

Robert Kline

William & Lisa Kuhn

Land of Lincoln Purebred Livestock Breeders Association

Joan Lawson

Harriett Lindstrom

Wilma Mende

Robert & Mary Muentnich

Wilbur & Marilyn Nelson

Ned & Catherine Null

Stacy & Cynthia Peterson

Robert & Mary Pritchard

Prospect Bank

Ramsey Grain, Inc.

Daniel Reinhart

Joy & Charles Richey

Rural Electric Convenience Cooperative Co.

Anne Sears

Gordon & Jane Sissing

Southern Illinois Electric Cooperative

“4-H has provided me multiple ways to develop as a person and allowed me to explore my interests. It is through my natural resource and forestry projects that exposed me to the career of forestry management. The 4-H program provided me a solid foundation to build upon.”

Dalton Wachter, Elizabeth

“I have had many opportunities to lead younger members in presentations, activities, and workshops in the sciences and arts. These instances helped shape the person I am now and showed me that I would like to use my career to teach kids about the world and how we impact and are impacted by it.”

Charles & Bonnie Swatek

Ronald & Maya Throneburg

Charlotte Wax

Libbie B. Aavang

Philip & Sarah Alexander

Darrell & Mary Andris

Leonard & Pat Armstrong

Eldon & Virginia Aupperle

Ronald Aves

William & Emily Bane

Burton & Marilyn Barr

Margaret Bateman

John & Christine Baumann

Nelson & Kathryn Baumgartner

William Beck

Virginia Beckner-Rush

Brian Bend

Roger Bengtson

Eugene & Darlene Bergschneider

Bergschneider, LLC

Kenneth Betz

Belva Beyers

Douglas & Edith Block

Richard & Marilyn Bogner

Carol Bork

Gail Briggs

Ross & Carolyn Brower

Jeff & Toni Brown

Annabelle Burgland

Burlington Resources Foundation

Paul & Ellen Burton

Robert & Shirley Carroll

Howard Carter

Jane Casey

Jean Chase

Judith Chase

John & Mary Church

Ruth Clanin

Gabriella Burkett, Carterville

Patricia Clickener

Clinton County Electric Cooperative, Inc.

David & Carol Close

Steven & Denita Clover

Timothy & Lynn Connelly

Covenant Animal Clinic

Crop-Tech Consulting, Inc.

Nancy Daigh

Randy Maas & Laura DavisMaas

Jerry & Kristine Daws

Diekemper Brothers, Inc.

William & Mary Dielman

Samuel & Virginia Down

DuPage County Farm Bureau

Donald & Virginia Durbin

Edward & Kathryn Ebersohl

David Ebert

Norman & Martha Ehlers

Miriam Elliott

Harold & Barbara Ely

Dorothy Emory

Dale & Janet English

Robert & Mary Espeseth

James Esworthy

Cynthia Eustice

Patricia Finch

First National Bank of Steeleville

Jack & Vicki Flammang

Leon & Linda Follmer

Mark & Debra Forbes

Floyd & Louise Forcade

William & Rita Francis

Charles & Lois Frazee

Michael & Beverly Friese

Eloise Fritschle

Jeannette Gardner

Thomas & Carol Gelwicks

Larry & Jenny Gibbs

Joan Glendenning

Ronald Going

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

Steven & Mary Safford

Orion & Gloria Samuelson

Harold Sanders

David & Rose Sandstrom

John & Claire Sauntry

Darryl & Ruth Sayre

Duane & Kimberly Schallenberg

Lois Schmidt

Gordon & Carol Schroeder

Sandra J. Schrof

Kay Schwarting

Knox County Farm Bureau

Robert Seaver

Welsh Brothers

Mary West

Norman & Joy Wideburg

W.M. Beck Auction & Realty

Robert & Diane Wolf

Rodney Worth

Lloyd & Nita Wright

Kenneth & Linda Wyss

Neval & Norma Yeates

Rosella Young

Eldon & Sandra Gould

Steven & Pamela Greenfield

Richard & Barbara Gregory

Richard & Kim Grever

William & Lorraine Hacker

Carol Hadley

Peggy Harmon

Harvey & Candy Harms

Glenda Harris

William & Teresa Hart

Michael Hartman

Peter Haselhorst

Alvin & Phyllis Hepner

Steven & Diana Herriott

Jerry & Jill Hicks

Phyllis Hieronymus

Glenn Hillman

Patricia Hodge

Dan & Deanna Hoge

Clarence Holdiman

Dean & Arlene Holmes

Gary & Marilyn Holt

Lloyd & Joyce Honegger

Bruce & Caroll Hortin

Scott & Michele Horton

Roger & Karen Houston

Roger & Ranelle Hubele

Donnell & Dorothea Hunt

Illinois Lamb and Wool Producers, Inc.

Illinois Landscape Contractors Association

Illinois Pork Council

James Jarboe

Jo-Carroll Energy

Robert & Donna Johnson

Lucile Johnson

Jean Johnston

Carol Jones

John & Marcia Kabat

Arthur & Esther Kane

Kankakee County Association for Home and Community Education

William & Betty Kelch

Richard & Mary Killey

Eugene & Joyce Knodle

Foundation

Ronald Kuntzelman

David Pyle & Linda Kutilek

Medanell Lawton

Lloyd & Sue Leka

Craig & Gail Lithgow

Randall & Diane Lloyd

Ted Lobello

Thomas & Patricia Loftus

Ronald & Carlene Maag

Craig & Lara Macklin

Rodger & Janet Marshall

Enid Marshall

Amy & Virgil Martin

Michael & Lynn Martz

Searoba Mascher

Michael & Vicki Massie

D. S. McClure

Franklin & Jane Mellert

Alan & Joyce Merriman

Kevin & Jenny Miller

William & Anita Million

Kenneth & Betty Moser

Leanna Mraz

Dean Nelson

Charles & Gail Nolan

Eleanor Nolin

Delano & Wanda Ohaver

Michael & Carol Olson

Judith Onken

Forrest Van Orman

Ralph & Margene Paarlberg

Paullin Farm

Randall & Betsy Pech

Charles & Mary Pfingsten

Keith & Heather Poppy

Margaret P. Rathje

Theresa Reeder

Shirley Rees

Charles & Carol Reiter

Roger & Kathleen Reum

Virginia Rimington

Foster & Jean Rinefort

Rochester State Bank

Michael & Theresa Roegge

Jacquelyn Roll

Duane & Pamela Runyon

Brock & Ruth Seney

Rodney & Karen Seuring

Leon O. Shaw

Carole D. Shirely

State Farm Companies Foundation

Jeffrey & Janice Sibley

Kent Slater & Penny Lawyer

Ruth Sparkman

Maurice E. Sprout

Allen & Valerie Stabenow

Phyllis M. Staker

Richard Steiner

Mark & Sue Sterr

Lionel & Rebecca Stirrett

Peter Streid

Allen Swegle

Melvin & Linda Thies

Evelyn Brandt Thomas

Helen Thorp

Tompkins State Bank

Vernon & Laura Veal

Alfred & Rosemary Vermiglio

Marjory Wahls

Peter & LaRae Walter

Henry & Janice Wassmann

Gary & Michele Aavang

Helen Abbott

Access Ag, Inc. DBA Mazon Farmers Elevator Co.

DeWayne Adams

Branden & Sheila Alexander

Jule Allaman

Sherry Anast

Elnathan Anderson

David Althaus & Angie

Anderson-Althaus

Catherine Apel

Garret & Jill Apel

Donald & Rosemary Arnett

Lee & Tamara Ator

Richard & Arla Ault

Elmer & Beata Aupperle

Barry & Karessa Aves

James Ayers

Harriet Badger

John & Beatrice Bagby

Gary & Cecilia Balke

Christine Bannister

Sidney & Florence Banwart

Paula Barksdale

Harold & Nancy Barnes

Brian & Leanne Barnhart

“4-H brought me out of my shell and put me in contact with people in strong positions that allowed me to get an inside look at jobs.”

Kelly Mayo, Pinckneyville

Photo: Anita Wilkinson. | Coldspring Copperheads members packed 35 Christmas Pride Packages that were sent overseas to troops.

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

David & Tami Carroll

Shirley Davis

Stephen & Judy Francis

Everett & Pamela Bass

Bane & Angela Bates

Walter Beatty

Beeler Farms

Shirley Bennett

Mary & Eric Benson

Charles & Kathleen

Bloomberg

John & Roberta Boarman

Patricia L. Boarman

Russell & Nancy Boe

Lois Boecker

Boehle Consulting

Kenneth & Mary Bolen

Diana Bollin

Daryl & Verleen Bollmeier

Robert & Debra Book

Sharalyn Borchers

Borgic Farms, Inc.

Phillip & Karen Borgic

Gene & Pamela Bork

Gerald & Norma Boston

Marilyn Bottorff

Nancy Bower

Terry & Sherry Brakhane

Marjorie Breckon

David & Lynnellen Briggs

Darryl & Jean Brinkmann

Daniel & Darleen Brinkmann

William & Marina Britz

Wesley Broers

Billy & Sue Brooks

Jeffrey & Mindy Brown

Donald & Sandra Brown

Marilyn Brown

Jeffrey & Barbara Brunoehler

Gene Buhrow

Claudia Builta

Gary & Shelly Bultemeier

Robert & Martha Burris

Todd & Deborah Burrus

Maury & Kimberly Busboom

Gary & Sherry Butler

Althea Carls

Mary Carls

Dale & Mary Carlson

Roger & Martha Carson

Betty Casper

Dean & Doris Cates

David & Carolyn Cattron

Janet Chapman

Christine Chenoweth

John & Adrienne Chesnut

Dana & Elizabeth Christensen

Clark County 4-H Leaders

Keith & Carol Clement

Ray & Irene Denbesten

Jack & Carolyn Denny

Harold & Nancy Diamond

Jane Dierker

Carl & Mary Dilling

Melissa K. Dolan

James & Sandra Donovan

Richard & Jean Doub

Allen & Marcia Dragolovich

Harold & Nancy Drake

“I believe that 4-H gave me many of the skills that will help me succeed in college. My project was cattle, so I learned the dedication and hard work that it takes to raise these animals. It also teaches time management because things cannot be pushed to the last moment when it comes to the care of animals. Their needs must always come before your own.”

Morgan Gabriel, Assumption

John & Jane Francis

Elizabeth Franks

George & Julia Frock

Cimeron & Rachel Frost

G and E Roskamp, Inc.

Jeff & Pat Galle

Sherrilyn Ganske

Alice Garwood

Joy Geddes

Gerald & Nancy Gehlbach

Lee Gibbons

C. E. & Joanne Gill

Wayne Gleim

Glenn Webb Family Farm

Ardell & Dorothy Goetting

Robert & Sharon Going

Janet Goodell

Richard & Judy Goodwin

William & Nancy Gossett

Jerry & Linda Gourley

Roger & Janis Grace

Grain and Feed Association of Illinois

Donald & Elizabeth Greeley

Marsha Gritton

Janet Kolmer Grommet

Donald & Susan Guinnip

Katherine Cloonen

Close Farms

Gregory & Brenda Close

Kendall & Charlot Cole

Ted & Sheri Collins

Joseph & Callie Connor

Martin & Rosann Conroy

Gloria Cook

Coon Creek Sod Farms

Gail & Don Copple

Marcia Cox

Marilyn Coyne

Kay Coyne

Shirley Crisco

Craig Culp

Larry & Mary Cutler

Dairy Farmers of America

David Carroll, Inc.

Richard & Janice David

Dale & Linda Drendel

Lawrence & Mary Duewer

Shirley Dufelmeier

Marion Eden

Mary Edwards

Eugene & Eilene Ehrhardt

William Eickhoff

Rolland & Ardeanne Ekena

Jerry & Carolyn Endress

Kevin & Lori Engel

Scott & Rebecca Erickson

Ernest G. Potter, Ltd.

Mary Estes

Peggy Etherton

Jane Fairchild

James & Carla Farley

Farmers Elevator Company of Sciota

Farmers State Bank of Elmwood

Ken & Janine Ferrie

Glenn & Mary Fesser

First National Bank of Ava

Michael & Alee Gunderson

Donald Gustafson

Doris Gvillo

Charles & Ethel Hagenbuch

Donald Hahn

Nancy Haire

Elaine Hall

Rita M. Hallett

Gary & Laura Hampton

Brian Knodle & Heather

Hampton+Knodle

Donald & Lorraine Hand

Richard & Cinda Hanes

Steven & Lyren Haney

Duane & Margaret Haney

Mary Harland

Maynard & Leta Hartke

Gerald & Nancy Hartmann

Ronald & Patricia Hartmann

Faiz & Linda Hasib

Darren & Jody Havens

William & Harriet Hayden

Emery & Jeannine Hayes

“4-H has made me more confident in the soft skills needed for business, such as speaking, time management, and leadership.”

Sierra Carder, Willowbrook

First National Bank of Nokomis

Larry & Tamara Fischer

Alan & Sherry Flack

Clarence & Norma Forth

Samuel & Judith Foster

Jerry & Jeri Francis

Peggy Hays

James & Christine Hazen

Nancy Heaton

William Heinisch

Alan Henderson

Heritage Farms Grain & Dairy, Inc.

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

John Janssen

David Jasper

Jack Jennings

Frances Leland

Walter & Nina Lembke

Gary & Mary Leonard

“I have learned who I am as a person because of 4-H, and I now know that I can make a difference in the lives of others, no matter what the future holds.”

Sarah Hulstedt,

Belvidere

Merle Huntington

James & Joyce Jensen

Eugene & Marjean Jiles

Jason Johns

Victor & Tammy Johns

Daniel & Linda Johnson

Thomas & Sharon Johnson

J. B. & Ruthann Johnson

Thomas & Shirley Johnson

Donald & Virginia Johnson

Rosemary Jones

Gregory & Diane Lepper

Richard & Sharon Linden

Richard & Ruby Lingle

Wilma Long

Mary Lubertozzi

Ronald & Marilyn Lunnemann

John & Sharon Lyons

Donald Mack

Stephen & Charmayne Mack

Steven & Beth Macke

Ann Hertz

Steven & Phyllis Hess

Roger & Shirley Higgs

G. R. Hillman

Chris Hoelscher

Eldon Hoerbert

Joseph & Nancy Hogan

William & Brigit Hollis

Merlyn & Jane Holmbeck

Lawrence & Mary Huseman

Margaret Hutchins

Hyland Farm Polands

Illinois Corn Marketing Board

Illinois Holstein Association

Illinois Valley Supply, LLC

John & Carrie Inczauskis

International Business Machines Corporation

Robert & Lois Jornlin

Joy State Bank

Henrietta Juarbe

Marvin & Barbara Juliar

Henry Kaiser

Bill Kannberg

Marjorie Keane

John & Elizabeth Kelley

John & Janice Kellogg

Gordon Kelm

Joel & Nancy Kelsey

Robert & Judith Kemp

Robert Kenney

Kentland Farms

Ronald & Mary Kersten

Kenneth & Lora Kesler

Richard & Barbara Kiefer

John & Anastasia Killian

Edward & Kimberly King

Dale & Jane Kiser

Susan Klehm

Ronald Klein

Ronald & Wanda Kloster

Mathias & Mary Kluemke

Gilbert & Rosemary Knap

Kenneth & Jeanette Knight

Knox County Home & Community Education

Dan & Carol Koch

Edward & Karen Koch

Martin & Rebecca Koster

Jeff & Jenna Maierhofer

Kevin & Linda Main

Virginia Malone

Marion M. Eden Insurance

Dale & Peggy Markwalder

Marley Pork Farms, Inc.

Jerome & Carolyn Marley

John R. Marshall

Teresa Marshall

Mason City Community Chest

John & Edith Massey

Bernice Massie

Don & Barb Mathey

Philip & Karen McArdle

Michael McCully & Carolyn Gibbs

Michael & Shirley McElvain

Betty McGillivray

McLean County Farm Bureau

David & Lisa McMurtry

William & Jane McNamara

Charles & Mary Mead

Helen Medley

Gregg & Janet Meier

Jo A. Menacher

Leona Meyer

Orlan & Carol Miller

Daniel & Brenda Mills

Monroe County Farm Bureau

Russ & Linda Monson

Daniel & Melissa Moore

Charles & Doris Morehouse

Perry County 4-H members are getting first-hand experience in journalism. The Clover Leaf features stories written and photos taken by 4-H members. The club is beginning its third year under the mentorship of journalist Pete Spitler.

: Kally Mayo was a charter member of The Clover Leaf

: Pictured with an early edition are (standing, left to right) Faith Lewis, Brooklyn Willis, Program Coordinator Rhonda Schubert, and Pinckneyville Press owner Jeff Egbert; and (seated) Shelby Pearl.

Edward & Sharon Kramer

Albert Krause

Alan Kulczewski

Norman & Barbara Larson

Raymond & Carol Larson

Jerome & Durlene Lawless

Lorene Lay

Joseph & Diane Lecher

William & Lois Lee

Kathleen Morio

Bettina Morris

Ronald & Carmen Morthland

Donald Mosher

Ted & Janet Mottaz

Ross & Nancy Muehling

Gregory & Linda Muehling

Mulch Farms, Inc.

Robert & Martha Mulch

Brenda & Michael Murphy

GIVING: CUMULATIVE DONORS

Gerald & Ruth Poppe

Ernest Potter

Michael Murray

Richard & Gladys Myers

National 4-H Council

Nelson Farm Service

Richard & Patricia Nelson

Willard Nelson

Stanley & Alice Nelson

Thomas & Jean Nolte

Nu-Deal Oil Company

Division of Nu-Deal Corporation

Robert & Ida Nuernberger

Kelli O'Hara

Dean & Diane Olson

Virginia Orcutt

Patricia Orr

Ronald & Tracey Ott

Otter Creek Acres

Joel & Nancy Ottosen

Eugene & Shirley Overcash

Opal Parrott

Ross & Connie Pauli

Mark & Carolyn Paullin

Carl & Marilyn Payne

Margaret Pearse

Marian Pedrick

William & Ann Pell

Russell & Elaine Peppers

Howard & Angie Perry

Roscoe & Annette Pershing

Gene & Margaret Pessman

David & Holly Peterson

Peter & Debra Petges

Donald & Carol Poe

John & Tammy Poffenberger

Robert & Gayla Potts

Allen & Janet Poynter

Prairie Farms Dairy, Inc.

Premier Cooperative, Inc.

Delbert & Shirley Price

Clifford & Carolyn Puzey

Kenneth & Amy Quinn

Walter & Sandra Rademaker

Lynn Rainey

Richard & Alice Rainville

Rally Tree Farm

Richard Ramsey

Raritan State Bank

Kim & Lois Rees

Coy Reichert

Martha Rhoades

Norman & Mary Rhoades

Fern Rice

Rodney & Pamela Rice

Phillip & Jacqlin Richmond

John & Bernadine Richter

Donald & Mary Riedle

Rachel Riley

William & Karen Robinson

Dennis & Phyllis Roby

Curtis & Beth Rocke

Fred Rodhouse

George & Ruby Roemer

E. Louise Rogers

Ronald & Gail Romersberger

Ray & Carol Ropp

Norman & Mary Ross

Barbara Rossman

Rossville Packing Company, Inc.

When activities became virtual, Monroe County launched a virtual science camp. Camp topics featured dairy science, pollinators, specialty crops, and agricultural technology.

Jessica Branson is pictured with one of her camp projects.

Albert & Roberta Roth

John & Lois Rowe

Michael & Tina Rowe

Maurice & Anita Roy

Otis & Marian Ruff

William Runzel

John Rutledge

Alan & Phyllis Ruwe

Winona Saathoff

Shirley Saiter

Joan Salzman

Richard Sauder

David & Sylvia Saunders

Richard D. Sawyer

David & Helen Schafer

Thomas & Pam Schahrer

Brian Schaumburg & Beth

Laakman-Schaumburg

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.”

Thomas & Mary Scheider

Sharon Scherer

Gary & Theresa Schmalshof

DiAnne Schmitt

Thomas & Nancy Schneider

Jon & Joyce Scholl

Schoolman Farms

John & Barbara Schrage

Jeffrey & Lynne Schroeder

Richard & Sheila Schrumpf

Donna Schumacher

Bettie Scott

Mark & Brenda Seboldt

Timothy & Roxanna Seifert

Debra Seyller

Esther Shanks

Linda Sheldon

Merilyn Shepherd

Patsy Sherrard

James & Shirley Slothower

F. E. & Jo Smalley

Helen Smith

Jason & Andrya Smith

Mary Snavely

Lloyd & Betty Stahl

Iva Stamberger

State Bank of Saunemin

Melinda States

Roger Steimel

Deborah Sterett

William & Lois Stetzler

Sharon Stierwalt

Elinor Stille

C. J. Stilwell

Gerald & Joan Stoffregen

Collins & Barbara Stoll

Rodney Stoll

Irvin & Judith Story

Virginia Stout

Marjorie Stout

O. J. & Susie Stoutner

Wanda Streitmatter

Doug & Marsha Strom

Philip & Frances Struble

GIVING

Vera Stutzke

Gregory & Mary Sullivan

Carole Sullivan

W. L. Swope

Ken & Mary Tasset

Susan Taylor

Cheslea & Judith Taylor

Arthur & Sharon Tenhouse

Robert & Liana Terwilliger

Edwin & Melanie Teubel

The Gerber State Bank

Michael & Catheran Thomas

Mary Thompson

Christopher & Cathy Thorp

Wayne Thurmond

Howard Tingley

Robert & Dolores Torsberg

Vivian Trone

Dale & Teresa Troyer

Beverly Tucker

David Tuntland

Kenneth & Charlotte Tyrrell

William & Eleanor Uhlman

Anthony & Amy Ulrich

Gary Unsicker

Dennis & Cherie Van Daele

David Vandeburg

Tara & Marvin VanHoorn

Peter Viall

John & Betty Viano

Dorothy Vinson

Larry & Jan Voigt

Robert & Lorraine Vormezeele

Larry Wachtel

Patricia Wakey

Jerry & Judy Waldron

Richard & Carmen Walgrave

James & Sharon Walker

John & Susan Wallace

Mary Walsh

Ronald & Melanie Warfield

Lyle & Rosella Warner

Ormand & Phyllis Webb

Michael & Susan Weber

Wayne & Martha Welch

Richard & Marilyn Weller

Richard & Sara Wendling

Roy & Christine Wendte

Brian & Jo Ann Wenzel

Wilbert & Elaine Wernecke

Randall & Janet Wesemann

Westchester Group Investment Management

Donald & Elsie Westerman

Donald & Karen Wettstein

Michael & Janet Whitchurch

| Imagine scores of people sitting still and silent, watching sand slowly trickle into a bucket. They listen for any small snaps or for that one loud crash of a collapsing bridge before they burst into cheers. This was the scene at the Eighth Annual 4-H Bridge Bust Contest in January as teams competed for new weight records. For nearly a decade, this competition has promoted engineering, creativity, teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship. The goal is to provide area youth and families with a unique way to challenge their brains, work together and learn new things, all while having fun.

Max & Mary Whitney

Frank Wieting

James & Joyce Wilcox

Helen Wilcoxon

Ronald Wilke

Robert Wilkinson

Dorothy Willard

Donald & Irene Wilson

John & Mary Wilson

Joyce Wilson

Kevin & Kelly Winter

Lawrence & Charlotte Wohler

Leola Woodworth

Bonnie Woolley

James & Cheryl Wormley

Daryle & Joan Wragge

Harry & Helen Wright

William & Jane Wyffels

Warren & Norma Zehr

Jim & Carla Zwicker

Ruland got to meet Gypsy, a ball python, during a wildlife conservation workshop.

GIVING: FIRST-TIME DONORS IN 2019-20

First Mid Ag Services

First Mid Bank & Trust

First National Bank Litchfield

Paul & Mary Flint

Flowers Etc.

Walter Lynn

Macoupin County 4-H

Federation

Macoupin County Food Festival

A. C. McCartney, Inc.

Eric Adams

ADB, Inc.

Randall & Jane Adolph

Albert Renken Farm

Lucas Allen

Alternative AG Service & Consultants LLC

Dawn Alvine

Pamela Apke

Byron & Mary Austin

Paula Balka

Aaron & Brekin Bartlow

Bayer Matching Gift Program

Leslee Beams-Stacker

Jeffrey & Julie Behme

Bend Insurance

Gabe Black

Blains Farm & Fleet

Donald & Rosemary Boggs

Jeffrey Bollinger

Jeramy Bollinger

Robert & Theresa Bollinger

Bradford Victor-Adams

Mutual Insurance Company

Karl Breidecker

Bridgford Farms

Charles & Janice Butterfield

Brenda Cain

Shelby Carlson

Carroll County Farm Bureau

Carroll County Home & Community Education

Carroll County Master Gardeners

Cass County 4-H Federation

Kwok & Karen Chan

CHS, Inc.

Shawn & Carie Clapp

Clark County 4-H Federation

Commerce Bancshares

Foundation

Bruce & Sharon Courtright

Crawford County 4-H

Federation

Landen Crews

Michael Cultra

D & L Central Foundations

Dahm Trucking, Inc.

Robert & Joanna Davies

Ed & Linda Dawson

Maddie Dawson

DeKalb County 4-H

Federation

DeKalb County Farm Bureau

Chris Delach

Midge DeLuca

Elizabeth Des Rosiers

Vickie Domanus

Kriste Dow

Elizabeth Duewer

Edgar County 4-H Federation

Edgar County Farm Bureau

Edwards County 4-H

Federation

Kay Ertmanis

Martin & Blanche Esgar

Exchange State Bank

Fawley Farm Partnership

James & Ruth Fawley

James Feuerborn

Peter & Lauren Fillman

Mark Fink

Dean & Doris Finney

“4-H taught me how to serve and to lead. In my role as aclub leader, I am trying to bring resources andopportunitiesto our members so they buildthe confidence to act through their service and their leadership. It isimportant forcurrent leaders to provide current perspective tothe Foundation board andto be active in the largerfundraising effortsto develop relevant programs and materials for ourmembers.”

Kathie Flynn

Franklin County 4-H Federation

Tina Frazier

Freedom Township

John & Kimberly Freund

G&M Distributors, Inc.

Catherine Gerardi

David & Ruth Giffin

Gold Star FS, Inc.

Gorman Farms Trucking

Kurt Voss & Lisa Gould

Greene County 4-H Federation

Walter & Debra Griffith

Leo Grummel

Grundy County 4-H

Federation

Srujun Thanmay Gupta

Karen Gurklis

Carl & Carolyn Hart

Jacob & Angela Hassan

Monica Hauser

Henry County 4-H Federation

Nancy Henry

Doris Henson

JoAnn Hook

Hugh W. Moore, Jr. & Sons

Lauren Hughes

ImpactAssets

Robert & Monica Inness

Integrity Ag.

John Greene Real Estate

Robert & Lynn Jones

Kourtney Jontry

Charles & Sarah Jorgensen

Ronald & Patricia Kerres

Michael & Sherry Kinser

Jamie Kirsch

Kathy Kissner

Kiwanis Club of Sterling

Kiwanis Noon Club of Danville

Matthew & Elizabeth Klahn

Timothy & Coleen Kubicki

Roger Ladage

Tom & Judy Lamer

Lawrence County 4-H

Federation

John & Doris Lawyer

Lee County Pork Producers Association

Harold & Janice Lieb

Daniel & Deborah Lohnes

Marston Farms

Sarah McCoy

McDonough County 4-H

Federation

Menard County 4-H

Federation

Mercer County Title Company

Milledgeville State Bank

Miller Family Trust

Lyle & Codee Miller

Ms. Karen S. Miller

Sharon Mochel

Brian & Jill Mohr

Terry Monke

Maggie Murphy

MVC DVM Corporation

Naperville Community Gardeners

Andrea Ngola

Josh Noland

Louis Ochs

Adria Olszewski

Ann Orwig

Jerome & Carol Pelz

Richard Petges

Sara Pfaff

Pheasants Forever, Inc.

PLN Mutual Insurance Company

Garett & Rose Plumley

Prophetstown Farmers Mutual Insurance Co.

Peter & Linda Racen

Ryan & Amy Rademaker

Dennis & Cinda Ramp

Randolph County 4-H Federation

Raynor Mfg. Co.

Grady & Gail Reeser

Richland County 4-H Federation

Robert Roberson

Rock Falls Township High School

Ronald & Marilyn Rood

Roger & Dianne Ross

Matthew & Mary Rund

Sangamon-Menard 4-H Federation

Regis Santos

Brian Schaneberg

Linda Schreiber

Karl & Beth Schultz

HeatherHampton+Knodle,4-HFoundationBoard

GIVING

Vicki Schumacher

Rachael Schumaker

Scott County 4-H Federation

Michael & Jeanne Scott

Michele Scott

Scott's Electric

Dolorse Shoot

Rhonda Shubert

Gerald & Linda Singley

Christine Skaggs

Sloan Implement Co., Inc.

Thomas & Susan Sloan

Arnold & Carolyn Smith

Curt Sondag

Jessica Specht

John Sporina

John & Catherine Staff

Joyce Staff

Stark County 4-H Federation

Phyllis Steinhour

Toni Stoutenborough

Bradley & Elizabeth Straw

Don & Chris Strom

Chet Stuut

Anthony Ortega & Ramona Sullivan

Sullivan's Foods

Russell & Nannette Swanson

Joseph Sweeney

Samiullah Syed

Stan & Jennifer Tarr

William & Kristine Taylor

Sarah Taylor

The Andersons, Inc.

Charitable Foundation

The Exchange Club of Aledo

Paul & Leanne Thomas

Emmitt Tiner

University of Illinois Extension

- Boone/DeKalb/Ogle Unit

University of Illinois Extension

Kankakee County 4-H

Federation

University of Illinois Extension

Perry County 4-H

Federation

University of Illinois Extension

Unit 2

Louis & Carol Vaessen

Rob Vogelbacher

Wabash County 4-H

Federation

Jeff Waite

Robert & Becky Washburn

Wayne County 4-H

Federation

Gene & Claudia Welsh

Patrick & Jeanne Welsh

The Champaign County 4-H Teen Teacher program will expand agricultural programming to youth throughout its communities, thanks to a $5,000 donation from Premier Cooperative, Inc. The 4-H Teen Teacher program pairs high school teens with young students as they explore a variety of agricultural topics through experiential learning. A portion of the donation, as a 4-H Foundation Project Partner, will also be used statewide for workplace readiness, club growth, and innovation programs. The gift is made available through the Illinois 4-H Foundation, which ensures more youth benefit from the life-skill training of 4-H. Pictured are 4-H Teen Teachers working with fifth graders at Fisher Grade School to create a new egg carton prototype.

Tom Whitmer

Wilbur Nelson Farm

Daniel & Tammy Williams

Marcelle Wloszczak

Lauren Wolter

Woodland Township

Carla Woods

Dana Wooten

Wyoming Indians 4-H Club

John Yagow

Stephen Yau & Vicki Liu

Beth York

Young Farms

Paul Young

Jeff & Mary Zidron

Julie Ziegler

Rachel Zimmerman

Ann Zurmuehlen

“4-H helped me to meet new people and become comfortable interacting with others who shared my same interests and career goals. I learned to take risks and gained selfconfidence. Both of these character traits will help me be successful in the future.”

“Our

awardees embody the truespiritof4-H, having made a difference not only in their communities, but also Illinois and the nation. We are proud of the dedication,service,and fortitudeof the young men and women.”

LisaDiaz,AssistantDeanandDirectorofIllinois4-H

The Illinois 4-H Foundation provided $25,000 in college scholarships and awarded another $20,000 in national conference travel scholarships this year.

Each winner chooses either a $1,000 scholarship or a trip to National 4-H Congress. Sponsors include the 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.

The is Mallory Ames , Champaign County.

winners are Rachel Fishburn, Sangamon County; Abigail Rozanas, Boone County; and Carlson Rozanas, Boone County.

In the , winners are Austin Dufelmeier, Morgan County; Julian Heidrich, Kendall County; Delaney Smith, Champaign County; and Katie White, Morgan County.

The winners in the include Sarah Anderson, Macon County; Hannah Beran, Boone County; Erin Curley, McDonough County; Genevieve Ellingson, Boone County; Caleb Grover, Christian County; Anthony Joiner, Macoupin County; and Cavit Schempp, Logan County.

Illinois 4-H Foundation presents the Legacy of Leadership Scholarship to 4-H members who demonstrate and maintain a high standard of 4-H excellence and mastery during their membership tenure. Donors include Nann Armstrong, Patricia Clickener, Lila

Jeanne Eichelberger, Keith and Lissa

Parr, Donna Mueller, Dee Murray, George Obernagel, Legacy of Leadership Endowment contributors, Barbara and George Clark, Ryan and Elaine Ruwe, Marvin and Elizabeth Schnitzler, Carrie Francis, Jason and Andrya Smith, and the Illinois 4-H Foundation.

Erin Anderson, Iroquois County

Anne Becker, Morgan County

Erin Curley, McDonough County

Austin Dufelmeier, Morgan County

Emma Eathington, Fulton County

Rachel Fishburn, Sangamon County

Julian Heidrich, Kendall County

Logan Henerfauth, Monroe County

Erin Kistner, Montgomery County

Andrea Miller, Franklin County

Abigail Steffens, Logan County

Abigail Stichter, Whiteside County

Dalton Wachter, JoDaviess County

The 4-H Veterinary Science Award winner is Taylor Sondgeroth of McLean County. The sponsor is the Auxiliary to the Illinois State Veterinary Medicine Association.

winners include Katelyn Engel, Knox County; Ariana Hinkle, Logan County; Kendall Knodle, Montgomery County; Hannah Longlett, Adams County; Daniel Kloppe, Sangamon County; Michell Marck, Stephenson County; Lydia Oker, Kendall County; Camryn Parker, Hamilton County; and Sara Timm, Marion County.

Katie White, Morgan County

Karlie Wilken, Iroquois County

The Foundation also awards scholarships to teens who concentrate efforts in animal science projects. The winner of the 4-H Livestock Scholarship is Logan Hendrix of Clark County. The sponsor is LA-CO.

“Our donors are generous and believe that higher education changes lives.”

AngieBarnard,Foundation ExecutiveDirector

Service

Leon Obert, Adams County

Carmen Birk-Martin, Alexander County

Cathy Simmonds, Bond County

Robert (Bob) Walberg, Boone County

Becky Erbsen, Carroll County

Todd Burrus, Cass County

Andy Hughes, Champaign County

Jessie Crews, Clark County

Cathy Schnepper, Clay County

Michelle Wegmann, Clinton County

Mark Cox, Coles County

The late Madeline Harris, Crawford County

Josh Milliman, Cumberland County

William Kuhn, DeKalb County

Megan Barth, Dewitt County

Dr. Pennie Crinion, DuPage County

Meggan Cash, Edgar County

Don W. St Ledger, Edwards County

Tom and Bernie Haarmann, Effingham County

Connie Loschen, Ford County

Teresa and Shawn Lane, Fulton County

Donna Cockream, Grundy County

Deanna Erwin, Hamilton County

Teresa Guymon, Hancock County

Dan and Melinda Horton, Henderson County

Larry Haigh, Iroquois County

Randy Bierman, Jasper County

Sandra (Sandy) Bechtold, Jersey County

Helen Muto, JoDaviess County

Georgia Vinson, Johnson County

Bonnie Kararo, Kane County

Gary Kohl, Kankakee County

Jodi Brummel, Kendall County

Roger (Pete) Holmes, Knox County

Lisa Kleber, Lake County

Kerry Hill, Lawrence County

Nancy Wadsworth, Lee County

Gail and the late Ellen Rapp, Livingston County

Stacie Skelton, Logan County

Rick Spencer, Macoupin County

Lynn Weis, Madison County

Terry Mulvany, Marion County

Carol Breedlove, Mason County

Tammie Obermark, Massac County

Sherry Lowderman, McDonough County

Robert Gallagher, McHenry County

Sid Parks, McLean County

Jeffrey Sampson, Menard County

Brenda Close, Mercer County

Pam Jacobs, Monroe County

The late Phil Crouch, Montgomery County

Jay Harris, Morgan County

Erik Stollard, Moultrie County

Cheryl Price, Ogle County

Martha Eberley, Peoria County

Dr. Nathan Pyatt, Piatt County

Barnard, Illinois 4-H Foundation Executive Director

Marianne Adams, Pike County

Julie Barger, Pope County

Flora Helman, Pulaski County

Jenny Hancock, Richland County

Keith Gorham, Rock Island County

Daniel (Danny) Evans, Saline County

The late Woody Woodruff, Sangamon County

Sandy Brix, Shelby County

Denise Godfrey, St. Clair County

Bill Million, State 4-H

Deb Stocker, State 4-H

The late Sheri Seibold, State 4-H

Stephanie Mitchell, Stephenson County

Dean Beutel, Tazewell County

Jim and Cindy Walker, Union County

Nancy Boose, Vermilion County

Gill Sanders, Wabash County

Robin Corzatt, Warren County

Dustin Unverfehrt, Washington County

Phyllis Hilliard Wilks, Wayne County

Liz Masterson, White County

Karen Temple, Whiteside County

Nancy Kuhajda, Will County

Don Elliott, Williamson County

Kathy Palmer, Winnebago County

Terri Kuebler, Woodford County

“Thesevolunteersfullyembodywhat4-H strivestoinstillinyouth.Theyarecaring, dedicated,generousleaders,andthe Illinois4-HFoundationisextremely proudtobeabletoprovidethishonorto thankthemfortheirservicetothis wonderfulorganization.Manyvolunteers haveatraditionof4-Hintheirfamily,or were4-Hmembersthemselves.Moreand more,though,adultsnewtothe4-H experienceareseeingthevalueofthelife skillsdevelopmentprogramand volunteeringforthefirsttime.”

Angie

Farmland gift benefits 4-H and child development.

Illinois 4-Handthe University of Illinois have beena part of NannArmstrong’s heritage for multiple generations. Witha recent giftof farmland, Armstrong ensuredher family’s legacywill continue to impact current and future generations of 4-H members andstudents in the College ofAgricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences Department ofHuman Development andFamily Studies.

As Nann organized her estate, she recognized that gifting farmland to the University of Illinois Foundation was a good option for her. The Foundation will maintain the farm, and she was able to direct annual income from the land to support causes near and dear to her. To read more about Nann Armstrong’s farmland gift, visit go.illinois.edu/armstrongfarmland.

“4-Hbuilds leadership andsupports working in the community. There are so many opportunities beyondthe funofbeing ina local club.”

NannArmstrong

achievement fashion review. I officially joined 4-H at 10 and was an 11-year member of both a home economics club and an ag club. I exhibited projects from both clubs at the state fair. I was a delegate to State Leadership Camp. I was a 4-year student at University of Illinois. I lived at 4-H House. I was awarded a 4-week summer fellowship as the Illinois Land Grant College representative, given by the Danforth Foundation and Ralston Purina Company. I was the craft director at one of the first state 4-H camps. I taught home economics and cooperative career education for 40 years in Champaign County. In 1993, I became a board member of the Illinois 4-H Foundation.

Board of Directors

Those who serve on the Illinois 4-HFoundation Board of Directors do so because they believe in what 4-H is teaching andwantto build networks that generate financial resources for our state program. We give ourthanks to you for your time, advocacy, and support of the Illinois 4-H program.

, Sangamon County

, McLean County

, Cook County

, DuPage County

, Montgomery County

, Sangamon County

, McLean County

, Cook County

, Monroe County

, Lake County

, Lake County

, Adams County

, Champaign County

, Saline County

, Collegiate Rep, McHenry County

, Youth Leadership, Christian County

, Illinois Farm Bureau, McLean County

, GROWMARK, Champaign County

, Bayer, St. Charles, Missouri

, Emeritus, Champaign County

In retirement, there is not enough I can do to repay for such wonderful opportunities in either time spent recruiting funds, developing programs, or providing financial assistance for the present and future youth of America.

please email illinois4hfoundation@illinois.edu or call 217-333-9295.

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.

ALUMNI ENGAGEMENT

In 2020, Illinois 4-H youth faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic with school closures, 4-H cancellations, and 4-H exhibitions being moved to a virtual format.

“We recognize the challenges our 4-H youth faced, especially our 4-H members who were seniors and may have missed milestones in their school and 4-H careers,” says Tina Veal, 4-H alumni and constituent engagement manager with Illinois 4-H. “We created a new 4-H memorabilia tassel to let 4-H youth know we support them and are proud of the challenges they have overcome.”

This recognition was made possible with support from the Illinois 4-H Foundation Board of Directors Endowment. Seniors are encouraged to stay in touch with 4-H by joining the Illinois 4-H Alumni Association. The association was established in 2016, to create a lifelong, statewide community of 4-H alumni and provide increased opportunities for meaningful engagement to increase awareness, pride, participation, volunteerism, and philanthropic commitment to 4-H.

4-H continues to build responsible and caring adults who give back to their communities. The Illinois 4-H program has a strong history of making an impact on youth, building leaders, and preparing them for success.

go.illinois.edu/LinkedIn4HAlumni

facebook.com/groups/il4halumni

twitter.com/IL4halumni

| Leah was one of many 4-H members who graduated this spring. Recent grads are encouraged to keep in touch and join the 4-H Alumni Association.

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

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/Designer:

Judy Mae Bingman

Supporting Information:

Angie Barnard, Rosie Ralston, Marla Todd, Angela Miller, Molly Scott, State 4-H Staff

Copy Editor: Nicole Stewart

Photos:

Submitted from field staff

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.

Distributions from your traditional IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans are 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.

University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, UrbanaChampaign, Illinois © Copyright 2020, 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.