2022 Illinois 4-H Foundation CloverSeed Annual Report

4-H IS BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF THE EMPOWERED, SKILLED AND CONFIDENT LEADERS ILLINOIS NEEDS

The past year has been one of incredible growth for Illinois 4-H. In just 12 months, 184 new 4-H clubs have been started across the state. 4-H staff continue to innovate – adding new and expanded program opportunities for youth. Our volunteer numbers have grown – continuing to play an essential role in mentoring and guiding youth through their 4-H journey. My message to you – Illinois 4-H continues to grow and innovate. You will see that reflected in this year’s CloverSeed.

I always like to talk about the unique relationship between the 4-H Youth Development Program and the network of land-grant universities across the country. This provides the research base for how we approach youth development. Our goal in 4-H remains to help youth find their individual “spark” – an interest that creates excitement and provides direction for future goal setting. Sparks are then encouraged by caring adults and a supportive peer group. When a young person enrolls in 4-H, they are joining a network of over 7 million youth across the United States. 4-H has also grown to over 80 countries around the world. This one-of-a-kind network provides rich opportunities for youth to extend their learning, their social networks, and circle of influence. We are so proud of the examples set by our 4-H youth. Throughout these pages you will see examples of Illinois youth who are thriving and inspiring others.

There is so much richness and diversity across the communities in our proud state. And we are so grateful for the network of 4-H supporters that make this program possible - our parents, 4-H volunteers, community partners, 4-H alumni and donors. We remain committed to providing all youth the tools and experiences they will need to be empowered and prepared for future success. We invite you to join us in pledging to lift youth voices and help youth across Illinois get equal access to resources they need to thrive.

Congratulations and thank you to everyone in the Illinois 4-H community for another great year!

regards,

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed

than 50K 11%

than 50K

ILLINOIS 4-H PROVIDES #OPPORTUNITY4ALL

We believe that talent is universal, but opportunity is not and that's why we are working to provide opportunities that reflect the demographics of today's youth in Illinois to meet youth where they are. In 2022 we provided ...

S.L.A.A.Y. = SUCCESS FOR LATINO AND AFRICAN AMERICAN YOUTH

SLAAY is a new program piloted by Illinois 4-H to specifically address the concerns and interests of Black and Latino students as they prepare to navigate educational institutions and career fields where they are underserved and underrepresented.

This new program serves as a resource for underrepresented youth to explore and experience professional, educational, and skill-building activities. Impact is not what we did. Impact is what changed because we did it. So what changed? In the CloverSeed you'll find stories of positive change in Illinois youth that occurred because of their 4-H involvement. 4-H matters and what you did to help us get there matters!

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual

spark /spärk/: a passion for an interest or skill that provides an often lifelong sense of happiness, purpose, and direction.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual Report

University of Illinois | College of ACES | Illinois Extension | 4-H | 4-H Foundation

WHY HAS 4-H SURVIVED AND THRIVED FOR OVER 100 YEARS?

Our foundational beliefs of Belonging, Independence, Generosity, and Mastery or the BIGM guide everything we do, now and in the future!

WHAT THE BIG M MEANS TO ME

By Shandre Willoughby, McLean County

The B stands for Belonging. Everyone who was a part of our club belonged and was welcomed. This was a happy and safe environment.

The I stands for Independence. Being able to take care of our equipment and ourselves.

The G is for Generosity. Being kind to one another, helping each other, and praising one another.

M stands for Mastery. Through mastering skills, we learned to complete goals.

As I will be graduating high school in May and starting my college career, I know all the skills of shooting sports and 4-H will follow me and help me grow more as an adult. 4-H teaches you to "make the best better," along with leadership skills and teamwork. I believe I have mastered these skills myself.

ANIMAL SCIENCES

LEARNING, LEADING, AND ADVOCATING

Youth who serve on the Livestock Ambassador Team gain real world experience as they...

• Plan Statewide Junior Livestock Conferences

• Lead Regional Livestock Clinics

• Lead Livestock Skillathons

• Assist with State 4-H Livestock Events

• Advocate for the livestock industry

• Serve on Agricultural youth boards (Youth Education in Agriculture, Junior Association, State Fair)

• Plan State Fair activities (Commodity Carnival, Governors Auction, Ag Day, Tours, etc.)

Bailey Botterman

Travis Wilke

Tanner Mickey Abagayle Britton

Drake Fletcher

Emma Preston

This team is sponsored by the

ANIMAL SCIENCES

YOUTH COMMITTEE PREPARES FOR FUTURE

AGRICULTURAL CAREERS

Four Illinois 4-H members put their leadership skills into action while building strong agricultural foundations for the future as they join the Youth Education in Agriculture (YEA) Committee through the Illinois Farm Bureau.

This committee helps not only provide quality programs for agricultural education in Illinois, but also helps prepare youth for careers in the agriculture industry. The committee is made up of 4-H and FFA members as well as representatives from the members of the Illinois Farm Bureau Family of Companies.

Molly Warner of Knox County, Ashleigh Janssen of Tazewell County, Shelby Basham of Kankakee County, and Paige Lemenager of McLean County represented Illinois 4-H this year.

I am most excited about giving back to the organizations that pushed me to pursue what I am so deeply passionate about. Without these organizations, I believe I would not be half the person I am today and I am excited to bring new ideas to the table.

SHELBY BASHAM, KANKAKEE COUNTY

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed

This year's members include:

Maggie Kelly

Jordi Oliver

Adrianne Hall

Sara Timm

Kadie Pierson

Skye Schumaker

Nicole Hill

Brady Clark

Paige Lemenager

Paige Van Dyke

Levi Meadows

Allyson Aves

Emma Coursey

Tyler Hall

Jacqueline Schertz

Lauren Mohr Sara Tarr

Katelyn Engel

Shelby Basham Remington Curry Lauren Wolter Makenna Green Lydia Oker

ANIMAL SCIENCES

GO AHEAD & JUDGE ME

Why? Because livestock judging builds confidence, decision-making, and communication skills youth will use for a lifetime.

100+

youth gathered at this statewide contest to show their skills as they learn more about how to effectively manage local herds.

It’s a great way to get more involved in the livestock industry and learn more about the livestock that you might be showing or just involved with. It’s also a great way to get out and meet new people and have new opportunities.

CONLEY SCHICK, DEWITT COUNTY

94%

OF YOUTH PARTICIPANTS SAID CARING FOR AND EXHIBITING LIVESTOCK PROJECTS IN 4-H HAS TAUGHT THEM WHAT IT MEANS TO BE RESPONSIBLE AND ETHICAL.

ANIMAL SCIENCES

CREATING AN ENDOWMENT PROVIDES EVERLASTING SUPPORT FOR 4-H

You can create an endowment to provide support in perpetuity for a 4-H initiative or county 4-H program with a minimum gift of $25,000. Contact the Illinois 4-H Foundation so they can help you create a lasting legacy that will detail your wishes and ensure your intentions can be carried out to support a specific 4-H program or area of your choosing.

ANIMAL SCIENCES

ILLINOIS 4-H FOUNDATION SUPPORTS TEEN COMPETITION EXPERIENCES

This year, Illinois 4-H youth took home these top honors:

• National Grand Champions, Illinois 4-H Livestock Judging Team, NAILE Livestock Judging Contest.

• Reserve National Champions, Illinois State 4-H Livestock Skillathon Team, National 4-H Livestock Skillathon Contest.

• 8th in the nation, Illinois 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Team at the 2021 National 4-H Dairy Judging Contest.

• 9th in the nation, Boone County 4-H Livestock Judging Team, American Royal 4-H Livestock Judging Contest.

• Overall High Point Individual, Olivia Charles of Carroll County, Eastern National 4H Roundup in Louisville, KY.

• 7th place in Public Speaking, Eliza Engelhardt of Marion County, Eastern National 4-H Roundup.

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ILLINOIS 4-H YOUTH ARE REACHING NEW LEADERSHIP HEIGHTS

The Macomb 4-H Youth Leadership Organization (MYLO) is a three year program focused on the development of future community leaders who want to come back to Macomb to live and work. Macomb High School students first learn about the community they live in through a series of monthly tours and speakers. They then partner with a professional working in their own community, and develop a service project to give back. First year MYLO participants kick off their experience with team building such as navigating the high ropes course at Western Illinois University’s Horn Field Campus.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual

CAREER & LEADERSHIP

4-H MEMBERS LEARN ALL THE RIGHT MOVES AT YOUTH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Nearly 75 seventh and eighth grade youth learned ways to improve their leadership skills at the fall 2021 “Game of Leadership” 4-H Junior Leadership Conference. Youth Leadership Team members planned and led the conference with the goal of helping youth feeling empowered to go back to their clubs with stronger leadership skills.

JLC is made possible by support from:

HALLE BREDEL, MACOUPIN COUNTY

I feel like it impacts my future by helping me with possible public speaking and not being afraid of leading groups. I also really think that it brought me out of my comfort zone.

“Without being a part of Youth Leadership Team, I believe I would have missed out on the chance to develop a skill that is so often neglected in a person’s upbringing and education: a growth mindset. YLT has taught me the benefit of grit, vulnerability, affect methods to create spaces where individuals’ voices can be heard and elevated.”

CAREER & LEADERSHIP

96%

of youth surveyed felt that 4-H Junior Leadership Conference gave them the opportunity to explore something they really care about.

TEENS TAKE THE LEAD!

Members of the Youth Leadership Team put their leadership skills to the test as they grow and develop their skills by...

• Planning and leading conferences

• Walking the halls of the Illinois State Capitol talking to legislators

• Representing Illinois 4-H at state and national events throughout the year

• Serving on advisory councils and committees such as the Illinois 4- H Foundation Board of Directors, Illinois Farm Bureau Youth Education Committee

This year's members included:

Caleb Grover

Naomi Dolan

Anthony Joiner

Jordyn Swinford

Beth Warden

Andrea Miller

Carina Engst

With support from local business entrepreneurs, teens in LaSalle County identified business opportunities, developed a pitch and were empowered with skills to apply themselves to grow a business.

Ashleigh Janssen

Ross Vancil

Molly Warren

Caroline Ahrends

Megan Eppel

Krish Nangia

Sara Timm

Emma Coursey

Julian Heidrich

Gracie Prose

Michelle Wang

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual

ANDREA MILLER, FRANKLIN COUNTY 2021 DEB STOCKER ILLINOIS YOUTH LEADERSHIP TEAM SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

NATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES EXPAND YOUTH HORIZONS

Ten delegates from Illinois took their leadership skills to the next level as they represented Illinois 4-H at National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, Georgia.

My biggest takeaway from National 4-H Congress was being in the presence of hundreds of youth from 37 states that had the same passion for becoming influential leaders in their communities. I so enjoyed having the opportunity to showcase how to be a leader throughout the week and on the community service day.

CARLSON ROZANAS, BOONE COUNTY

CAREER & LEADERSHIP

4-H CONGRESS

4-H Congress is an educational experience designed to make an impact. Our Illinois 4-H delegates spent three days in Atlanta expanding their skills, engaging with other 4-H members, and gaining inspiration to come back to make an impact in their clubs, communities, country, and world!

TODAY'S TEEN TEACHERS ARE THE EDUCATORS OF TOMORROW

Alexander, Johnson, Massac, Pulaski and Union County 4-H staff trained over 100 teens for the Teen Leader program reaching over 400 youth in 4-H classroom clubs. The 4-H Teen Teacher program is designed to have teens mentor and teach younger youth and act as ambassadors for our program. 4-H staff work with schools to provide training on youth adult partnerships, age-appropriate behaviors, community service, and multiple 4-H project areas. After the training, the teens mentor, lead, and teach younger youth on a 4-H program or project. The leadership program helps build public speaking skills while enhancing confidence and relationship-building. 4-H Teen Leaders have become a highlight program for the five county unit. The teens are trained as a group and really enjoy the networking and team building across the counties.

The teens completed textiles, hydroponics, visual arts, community service, cooking, ag science, health education, embryology and many other project areas this past year through teen teaching and mentoring younger 4-H members.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed

2021 National 4-H Congress Illinois Delegates

Delaney Smith, Champaign County

Ross Vancil, Henderson County Anthony Joiner, Macoupin County Michelle Marck, Stephenson County Megan Eppel, Lake County Naomi Dolan, Vermilion County Gracie Prose, Ogle County Dylan Zwilling, Champaign County Carl Rozanas, Boone County

Lydia Oker, Kendall County

HOW DO PRINGLES HELP BUILD LEADERSHIP?

At Officer Training School, youth from Henderson, Knox, McDonough, and Warren counties gather for an experience that goes beyond learning about what each 4-H officer does as they explored what it means to be a leader and part of a team. In teams, youth raced against the clock and each other to try to make a freestanding ring of Pringles. This activity embraces “learning by doing” to observe leadership tendencies in action.

ILLINOIS 4-H YOUTH ARE READY FOR WORK!

The Illinois 4-H Ready for Work program helps youth learn about:

• Admission requirements for Illinois colleges, trade schools, and apprenticeship programs

• Costs and payment methods of post secondary education

• Setting and building an action plan for reaching postsecondary education goals

• How to assess and increase their success and competitive advantage while in high school.

Youth also gain access to a larger community of peers with similar goals so they can be ready for work!

BUILDING SKILLS YOU NEVER OUTGROW

4-H excels in preparing youth to speak well and confidently, and it is a skill that serves members for a lifetime.

Youth who participate in the yearly State 4-H Public Speaking Contest develop skills for communicating real-life issues to live audiences and receive professional and peer feedback. Youth ages 8-18 gain skills in learning how to organize and prepare a speech, developing speech delivery skills, and learning how to present themselves in front of an audience.

I like public speaking because it combines two of my favorite things in the world: creative writing and public speaking. That’s what I do, I put both of those into one and I get to have a lot of fun, meet new people, and get new experiences.

MOLLY DITTMER, LAKE COUNTY, 1ST PLACE WINNER IN THE ORIGINAL WORKS INDIVIDUAL DIVISION

COMPEER Financial provided financial support for this event through the Illinois 4-H Foundation.

CAREER & LEADERSHIP

SET UP FOR SUCCESS!

What's next for 4-H seniors according to the 2022 Senior Survey

4-H helped me develop a passion for the career I wish to pursue. I got to experience many different project areas and gained valuable knowledge through the "learn by doing" motto.

SENIOR SURVEY RESPONDENT

GIFTS THAT PAY YOU BACK

FUTURE IMPACTS OF 4H

• 97% learned new skills through 4-H that they could use in a future job.

• 96% know careers related to their 4-H projects.

• 84% can think of way their 4-H projects could be a business.

SELF IDENTITY

• 94% said 4-H gives them the opportunity to explore something they really care about.

• 94% said 4-H is an important part of who they are.

• 93% said they feel like they matter in the 4-H program.

• 90% said they feel supported by other kids in the 4-H program.

VALUE OF VOLUNTEERS

• 82% said 4-H leaders/staff took an active interest in their studies.

• 79% said 4-H leaders/staff helped them identify their strengths and weaknesses.

• 75% said 4-H leaders/staff talked to them about what they wanted to do in the future and what skills they need to achieve their goals.

A charitable gift annuity (CGA) is an easy, popular option that allows you to transfer cash or appreciated, marketable securities to UIF, and, in exchange, you — or up to two people you choose — receive a fixed annual payment for life. After the income beneficiaries pass away, the remaining funds are used to support Illinois 4-H Foundation. CGA donors also receive an immediate income tax deduction, subject to applicable limitations, and, in most cases, a portion of their payments tax-free. CGAs also offer an opportunity to diversify your portfolio and, should you decide to use appreciated securities to fund your annuity, capital gains tax savings. CGAs are not available in a small number of states.

You can also transfer assets to UIF to put in a charitable remainder trust (“CRT”) which then makes payments to you or others for life, for a term that doesn’t exceed 20 years, or a combination of the two. A CRT can also diversify your portfolio and, when terminated, its remaining assets will be used to support Illinois 4-H Foundation.

Illinois 4-H teens put their leadership skills to the test as they communicated the value and impact of Illinois 4-H with state legislators as a part of 4-H Legislative Connection.

Legislative Connection provides Illinois 4-H teens a unique opportunity to promote the Illinois 4-H program to elected state officials and learn about the state legislative process. Youth share their personal 4-H stories with legislators and discuss the benefits of 4-H and local University of Illinois Extension programming in their home communities.

“I think a lot of times in our society we feel like we don’t have a voice because we’re just youth or just in high school, but coming to Legislative Connection actually gives us a voice so we’re able to promote what we believe in.”

GLOBAL CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

CALEB GROVER, CHRISTIAN COUNTY

GLOBAL CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

HOW TO REMEMBER THE ILLINOIS 4-H PROGRAM IN YOUR WILL OR TRUST

Share the following language with your estate-planning attorney to add 4-H to your will or living trust.

I leave (e.g. % of estate, $ amount, residue) to the University of Illinois Foundation, and Illinois nonprofit corporation (37-6006007), for the benefit of the Illinois 4-H Foundation supporting the Illinois 4-H youth development program.

The Global 4-H Youth Network is made up of three representatives from each of the five global 4-H regions; Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America & Caribbean, and North America and aims to advance the 4-H program in three key areas:

• Increasing connections between 4-H programs worldwide.

• Continuing 4-H’s long history of education in meaningful areas including leadership, rural development, and agriculture.

• Advocating for increased inclusivity in all 4-H programs worldwide.

Katie Pascavis served as a representative for the US 4-H program on a global platform as a part of the Global 4-H Youth Network at the Global 4-H Network Digital Summit!

Katie Pascavis was raised in Bloomington, IL and joined the 4-H program when she was five years old as a Cloverbud, but she considers herself a 4-H’er for life. As a 5th-generation 4-H’er, the program is truly in her blood. Katie’s family moved to Arizona, where she continued her participation in 4-H. She began organizing community service projects for her club, including local nursing home visits and food drives.

BUILDING KNOWLEDGE, RESOURCES, & SKILLS AT NATIONAL 4-H CONFERENCE

Youth delegates to the National 4-H Conference work together in the four weeks prior to the conference to prepare briefings on important topics. During the conference, delegates virtually present their prepared briefings to federal officials in

This year's Illinois delegates included:

Alyson Aves, Boone County

Caroline Ahrends, Logan County

Elaan Bader, Montgomery County

Naomi Dolan, Vermilion County

Anthony Joiner, Macoupin County

Saralynn Joiner, Macoupin County

Marissa Mintle, Adams County

Shandre Willoughby, McLean County

GLOBAL CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

Washington, D.C. 4-H youth also have the opportunity to engage in personal development experiences that increase their knowledge, resources, and skills while discussing topics affecting youth and 4-H programming nationwide. Give to support:

• National experiences for youth • Scholarship opportunities

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed

In 4-H, career exploration is more than just reading about possible jobs, it involves rolling up your sleeves and trying it on for size

Youth in Will, Grundy, and Kankakee counties practice shot composition and lighting during a 4-H photography workshop at Kankakee River State Park. From selective focus, blurring the background, and using creative composition & lighting, youth were challenged to create the most unique, well composed, and creative photo they could using only their cellphones.

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO BE THE 2022 4-H ANGLER OF THE YEAR?

HARD WORK, GRIT, AND CONTINUING TO

SHOW UP!

There were a lot of great catches as youth throughout the state headed outdoors to compete in the 4-H Hooks Us Together Tournament this spring.

Hunter Stevens of Saline County earned the 2022 Illinois 4-H Angler of the year title for earning top placing in all three months of competition. “I feel a connection to nature and the environment when I'm fishing. It helps me forget about things that are on my mind and helps me relax.”

HUNTER STEVENS

ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

Bond County 4-H members partnered with The Simple Room, a Youth Development Center in Greenville to learn a new skill while spending time outside!

Photo Credit: The Simple Room www.simpleroom.org

4-H YOUTH NAMED 2023 YOUTH

IN

ACTION PILLAR AWARD FINALIST FOR HER WORK IN HEALTHY LIVING

Elaan Bader attributes the spark she has for agriculture and the global health of pollinators to 4-H. Armed with a can-do attitude and a belief that one person can make a difference, 4-H has provided her opportunities and experiences that have honed her public speaking, creative writing and leadership skills.

Working as a pollinator ambassador through a national 4-H grant, Elaan trained over 3,000 youth and adult volunteers and helped to plant over 36 acres of pollinator plots. During the pandemic, she utilized her strengths and talents gained in 4-H to independently educate people both locally and internationally about pollinators’ importance, creating original educational materials including a monthly newsletter, PSAs and social media content. Speaking out wherever she’s offered the opportunity—at community clubs, agricultural venues and the like—Elaan is passionate about her work and is driven to inspire and enable others to be change agents to make our world a better place. A student at Washington University in St. Louis, Elaan aims to share her pollinator passion through a career in agriculture law.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed

SHOOTING SPORTS

The 2022 National Shooting Sports Shotgun Team practices for national competition where the best of the best compete. Pictured here: Byron Diprima of Hancock County, Owen Dye of Mason County, Carson Stuckle of Fulton County and Jacob Yaste of Fulton County.

National Shooting Sports Ambassador Braden May of Massac County accepts a fist bump from the Texas team after reciting the code of ethics before a crowd of 5,000 spectators at the National Shooting Sports Competition.

SHOOTING SPORTS

The Shooting Sports Ambassador Team receives training by the National Shooting Sports Committee.

ambassadors are a positive voice for shooting sports, promoting shooting sports as a safe space where anyone can join in. The Illinois 4-H Team includes: Braden May, Massac County Shandre Willoughby, McLean County

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual

VOLUNTEERS

4-H VOLUNTEERING LEADS TO OTHER ROLES THAT IMPACT COMMUNITIES

A study in the Journal of Community Development shows because of the skills 4-H volunteers gained through their 4-H experiences, they became leaders in other community roles such as serving on committees, school boards, and more!

BECAUSE OF 4-H

Volunteers have the skills to organize and understand the processes that are needed to make boards and advisory councils effective.

My favorite thing about volunteering is giving back to an organization that shaped and granted me so much as a youth. I really enjoy seeing the kids’ faces light up as they talk to the judges about their projects and then that excitement of seeing their ribbons for the first time. Those smiles make it all worthwhile!

PAULA ZWILLING, 9-YEAR VOLUNTEER CHAMPAIGN COUNTY

1 VOLUNTEER, 26 FAIRS, COUNTLESS LIVES TOUCHED

Volunteer Mike Claypool from Centralia is often billed as "the first one there and the last one to leave."

Mike served as a judge at 26 county fairs this summer throughout Illinois and Missouri and served as a judge at the State Fair.

He is a Level II Shooting Sports State Instructor that is at every training and event we do in Illinois 4-H – even those not in his discipline.

“Mike is the real deal.” says Curt Sinclair, Shooting Sports State Coordinator. “He never stops thinking about how he can help.”

FOOD SYSTEMS

4-H IS INVESTING IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF FOOD ADVOCACY LEADERS

4-H is invested in creating more food access throughout Illinois, and youth are leading the way.

The 4-H Food Advocacy Grants program is aimed at helping youth become food advocates right in their own communities.

The grants provide financial support to youth-led projects aimed at increasing food security throughout Illinois. Youth led grants included mission gardens, backpack buddies, food

My hope is that we can come together as a community and make sure that no one has to go hungry, I want people to see that we can change lives for the better, just by helping each other.

YOUTH GRANT RECIPIENT TRINITY MCCORMICK OF WHITE COUNTY

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual

The BRANDT Foundation provided financial support for these grants through the Illinois 4-H Foundation.

BUILDING PATHS THAT LEAD TO BRIGHTER FUTURES

4-H youth from six states convened at the 2022 National 4-H Council Ag Innovators Experience on the University of Illinois campus for hands-on training, tours, and educational sessions.

Youth leaders from Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kansas were able to apply for this opportunity to learn more about ag innovation and how to teach about the topic.

“I’m excited because I can learn a lot more about how agriculture has changed and how I can help change it,” says Illinois youth delegate Gauri Venkatraman of DuPage County. “I took part in the experience last year and enjoyed teaching other kids and teens, and I also learned a lot.”

Delegates heard from leading researchers in the field of crop sciences and had the opportunity to receive hands-on experiences with University of Illinois faculty.

Teens are empowered to take what they’ve learned back to their states with a teen facilitator guide to 20 or more youth in their home state, who will then go out across their home state teaching additional youth, with the goal of reaching at least 6,000 youth across the Midwest.

BUILDING NETWORKS TO CREATE CHANGE

MISSION: TACKLE LOCAL ISSUES THROUGH GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

The National 4-H Youth Summit for Agri-Science is a pioneer in the National Youth Summit Series, bringing together teen agriculture and science leaders from across the country to focus on learning about and solving agri-science issues impacting communities and the economy.

This year’s Illinois teen delegates include: Elaan Bader, Montgomery County; Lillian Kennedy, Ogle County; Peter Metivier, McLean County; Saralynn Joiner, Macoupin County; Anthony Joiner, Macoupin County; and Luke Wolff, Macoupin County. We can't wait to hear what they've learned and the knowledge they'll bring back to our local communities!

Illinois 4-H members partnered with Brazil 4-H members and the Instituto Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul for the “Clube Solo Fértil” special interest club, giving young people in Brazil and the US opportunities to build cross cultural friendships while working together on issues related to Food Insecurity.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual

Matias Habib never aimed to be a leader of sustainable agriculture. However, when the invasive species Japanese Beetle devastated his family’s orchard, Matias spent his summer applying his 4-H Entomology knowledge to study natural methods to combat the beetle. He presented his research at the Illinois State 4-H Fair, and there the Entomologist judge gave him words of inspiration: “You’re innovating in a billion-dollar industry. Keep it up.” So he did. COVID gave Matias extra time to focus on his work, and he spent his summer building a lab, researching, running tests on a myriad of plant oils and other substances, and ultimately developing a patent-pending, all-natural formula that protects foliage from the Japanese Beetle and other pests.

With the support of his 4-H leaders, Matias launched his own business – TerraBuster – and began selling his unique bio-pesticide online and in local nurseries. Now expanding TerraBuster’s line of products to repellents for other pests that threaten crops. In line with his personal commitment to environmental sustainability, he reduces single-use plastics through refillable spray bottles, keeps carbon emissions low by local sourcing and distribution, and raises awareness of damaging toxic chemicals.

Matias’ interest in science and organic agriculture is rooted in childhood challenges. Growing up overseas, he struggled with language barriers and social anxiety. Often feeling like an outsider, he was eventually diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. He now realizes those differences are vital tools to empower his passion and focus on science. Through 4-H, Matias found the connection, inspiration, and confidence to turn his ideas into reality. A senior at the Illinois Math and Science Academy, Matias plans to pursue a career to develop innovative solutions that protect the environment.

THROUGH 4-H, MATIAS FOUND THE CONNECTION, INSPIRATION, AND CONFIDENCE TO TURN HIS IDEAS INTO REALITY.

ILLINOIS 4-H IS BUILDING HEALTHY LIVING

This statewide effort enabled 4-H staff to address local needs while partnering with schools, libraries, and various other youth-serving organizations to create new and lasting nutrition education impact to build skills youth can use today and in the future!

This programming is funded through a grant provided by the Walmart Foundation.

HEALTHY LIVING

TEENS TAKE ACTION TO PROMOTE UNDERSTANDING OF MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES

Illinois 4-H is addressing the issues of mental health in teens by providing youth ages 13 and up with a tool to help them to talk about mental health issues with family and friends. Your Thoughts Matter helps guide youth in learning more about mental health, why it is important to overall well-being and what action can they take to promote understanding in their homes, schools, and communities.

Here's what participants said they will do differently after participating in the Your Thoughts Matter Class:

• Think about what I say to others.

• Treat people with kindness.

• I will start talking to people if I need help.

• Make sure others are okay.

• Look at mental health differently.

• Be more positive and help more people when they need it.

• Make sure to inform a trusted adult or person about my mental health.

I want to start talking to my friends and others more seriously about mental health.

YOUR THOUGHTS MATTER PARTICIPANT

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HEALTHY TEENS MAKE BETTER CHOICES

Health Rocks! utilizes the cornerstone 4-H “Teens as Teachers” model to build leadership skills, leveraging the influence of young people by engaging teens to empower their peers and families to help establish life-long healthy habits.

4-H YOUTH NAMED 2023 YOUTH IN ACTION PILLAR AWARD FINALIST FOR HER WORK IN HEALTHY LIVING

Avani Rai’s passion for public speaking didn’t come easily, but it opened up a whole new world to her. On a small stage in Illinois, Avani found her voice and dove into all 4-H has to offer. As her passion for public speaking and leadership grew, Avani explored several roles where she could build her skills and connect with others while serving her community. First as a McLean County Teen Teacher through a 4-H SPIN club and later as an Illinois 4-H Healthy Living Delegate and Food Advocacy Ambassador, Avani’s interest in the need for food security and raising awareness about heathy living—focusing on accessible nutritious foods —bloomed. With the support of her 4-H community, Avani is confident she will continue her path of leadership, service and mentorship. A rising high school senior, Avani dreams of pursuing law and utilizing legislation to bring the topics of Healthy Living and food advocacy into the spotlight.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual

HEALTHY LIVING A

SIMPLE WAY TO EXTEND YOUR IMPACT

ROLLOVER IRA

THE IRA CHARITABLE ROLLOVER IS TAX-FREE

After you have attained the age of 70 ½, you are permitted to transfer up to $100,000 annually from your IRA to a qualified charity like the Illinois 4-H Foundation. The funds must come directly from your IRA provider with the check written to the University of Illinois Foundation.

TACKLING TODAY’S ISSUES OF NUTRITION EDUCATION, PHYSICAL FITNESS, WELLNESS, AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING.

Illinois 4-H’s Healthy Living programs educate and inspire youth to lead healthy lives that balance physical, emotional, and social health. This year 2,814 youth across the state learned how to make decisions for better health in classrooms, after-school sites, club meetings, and community programs.

The National 4-H Summit for Healthy Living provided a pathway for an experience beyond Illinois! Teen health leaders from across the country gathered in Bethesda, Maryland, in April. At the Summit, youth develop the knowledge and skills to address nutrition, physical fitness, wellness, and emotional well-being issues. Working alongside professionals in family consumer science and healthy living, students will create action plans they can implement in their communities to teach other youth about what they have learned. This year four delegates from Illinois attended the Summit. They were: Victoria Zwilling, Richland County; Alana Dolan, Vermilion County; Naomi Dolan, Vermilion County; and Olivia Clover, Union County.

TAKING THE LEAD ON HEALTHY LIVING ISSUES

Healthy Living Ambassadors provide youth with the statewide leadership opportunity that allows teens to develop leadership skills further, deepen their understanding of various healthy living topics, and share what they learn with others. This year’s Ambassadors are:

Dominic Burkett, Williamson County

Olivia Clover, Union County

Emilee Cox, Hamilton County

Alana Dolan, Vermilion County

Naomi Dolan, Vermilion County

Karlee Piercefield, Richland County

Ojas Shah, McLean County

Avani Rai, McLean County

Victoria Zwilling, Richland County

The direct transfer has two main benefits: 1) Any funds transferred will count towards or cover your required minimum distribution (“RMD”) for that tax year, and 2) distributions are not added to your taxable income. (Please note that while you will not receive a charitable deduction for these gifts, excluding them from your income is more advantageous than a deduction.)

To make your rollover gift, instruct your IRA administrator to send a check payable to the “University of Illinois Foundation” P.O. Box 734500, Chicago, IL 60673-4500, for the benefit of Illinois 4-H Foundation. Please also ask your administrator to include your name and preferred designation ie. Illinois 4-H Foundation (or applicable, fund name/number) on your check’s stub.

The

Xander Albertson, Kendall County

Riley Bourquin, Jo Daviess County

Dhruv Rebba, McLean County

Krish Nangia, DuPage County

Aaron Jenkins, Cook County

Marie Polk, Champaign County

Seyed Ahmad Dastgheib, Champaign County

Caden Raquel, Champaign County

Jayden Thomas, Cook County

Mei-Lin Hayek, Champaign County

Lisa Tsou, Champaign County

D Angel Slater, Kane County

Delegates to the competition have served as Space Ambassadors in their home states, exploring a comprehensive STEM initiative called “4-H in Space.” Delegates were chosen through a rigorous selection process.

The state teams have spent the spring and summer immersed in space curriculum, career pathway training, and learning workshops focused on coding, mechanical engineering, and astronomy in preparation for the event.

The three-day competition, organized by Higher Orbits, focused on building, programming, and launching satellites into low earth orbit. Delegates designed an experiment that will be launched and tested on the International Space Station under sponsorship of the National Laboratory. The winning team’s experiment will be conducted by real astronauts and launched to the ISS.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual Report

Illinois youth Krish Nangia of DuPage County participated in the winning team, the Space Goats. Their experiment, “Growing Spirulina in Space,” will be conducted at the International Space Station in 2023. Their experiment, “Growing Spirulina in Space,” focused on growing blue-green algae in microgravity conditions.

Illinois delegation included:

Photo credit Palm Beach

Participants of 4G STEM Camp (Girls + Gadgets + Games = Genius) learn about cover crops and the most effective tools to sort different size matter during an experiment with staff and interns from ISU CeMast (Center for Math, Science, and Technology) program.

Camp attendees also learned about the training medical students receive on intubation while at JUMP Simulation, a world-class medical training facility in Peoria.

ACES

A COMPETITION THAT'S OUT OF THIS WORLD

Youth from thirteen teams across Illinois demonstrated their learning, celebrated their accomplishments, and interacted with others who share an interest in robotics at the 4-H SpaceBot Mission Command Challenge Robotics Competition.

I really appreciated the chance to learn and develop with my teammates the skills that could really help me out in the real world.

BROGAN KELTNER, STEPHENSON COUNTY

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed

STEM

The Metal Cow and Super SCREAM Bros robotics teams qualified for FIRST Championships, competing with 186 teams from around the world!

The Super Scream Bros were named Connect Award Finalists. The Connect Award is given to a team that is recognized for helping their community understand the importance of STEM education. They did this by working with professionals in the STEM field, schools, and community groups to give robot demonstrations and teaching workshops on STEM topics throughout the season.

4-H Youth Development Specialist

Keith Jacobs has been honored for his youth impact work as the winner of the 2022 Illinois Innovation Network (IIN) Innovator of the Year. Jacobs was celebrated at an awards ceremony held in conjunction with the 2022 STEAM Expo at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in August.

IIN Innovation Awards celebrate advances in research, technology commercialization, and education. Jacobs was honored for his work on the 4-H in Space program.

Illinois 4-H staff member named 2022 Illinois Innovation Network Innovator of the Year

ILLINOIS 4-H LAUNCHES HISTORY INITIATIVE

Illinois 4-H is proud of the rich history of 4-H and our 4-H alumni near and far. If you were a member of the Illinois 4-H program, you are one of 25 million Americans who share a unique bond.

Illinois 4-H launched a new initiative for an Illinois 4-H History project and is seeking to reconnect with Illinois 4-H Alumni to hear their 4-H stories and share their 4-H memories.

4-H has impacted each of us differently, during a different time of life, and has provided skills or memories that have lasted a lifetime. We are interested in gathering your memories, photos, or photos of memorabilia of those special moments in which 4-H impacted you. You may share your 4-H story and participate in reunions to be held by the 4-H Decades.

The Illinois 4-H Alumni Association will seek opportunities for storytelling, video history, and developing a new history website. “Illinois 4-H has a well-founded history and each generation may have a different perspective of 4-H, but the values and goals remain the same: to build our next generation of capable young adults. We look forward to hearing 4-H alumni stories and the impact 4-H has made on their lives”, said Tina Veal, 4-H Alumni & Engagement Manager.

ALUMNI

26,500+

Signature Program deliveries help youth face Illinois’ challenges such as healthy living, career readiness, and more head on.

MOVING YOUTH TOWARD SKILL MASTERY

52,000+

Culminating exhibit opportunities for youth as they continue to find and nurture their spark through projects.

4-H FOR OUR FUTURE FUND

While every gift makes an impact placing your trust in us to allow funds to go where the need is greatest helps 4-H do more.

This type of gift designation allows flexibility and the ability to quickly provide WHAT YOUTH NEED, WHEN THEY NEED IT.

WHY I GIVE

Linda Hiltabrand, LaSalle County

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED AS A 4-H MEMBER?

I was born into a 4-H family! Both of my parents were long time 4-H members and my aunt was a member during my childhood. E. Roberta Hiltabrand Worthington showed the Grand Champion Steer at the IL State Fair in 1960. It may have been the last time a Shorthorn was chosen. I tried to duplicate that for ten years! There was never a doubt I’d be a 4-Her.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO INCLUDE ILLINOIS 4-H IN YOUR ESTATE?

I want to make sure that youth continue to have the 4-H experience. It won’t be exactly like mine, but the opportunities for leadership development, self-confidence boosting, learning new things, and meeting a variety of people will continue. Maybe my contribution will help someone do that.

WHAT’S IMPORTANT FOR FUTURE 4-H MEMBERS TO LEARN OR EXPERIENCE?

Continue to improve in your area of primary interest, but also explore other projects. This broadens your perspective and may even be useful later. Assume leadership roles and develop confidence in public speaking. Take advantage of the travel programs like camp and Washington, D.C. Decades later you may find yourself confidently handling a task that you first practiced in 4-H.

None of our lives is perfect, but if we've had some blessings, we can share them and make a difference for someone else. Even a small gift could have a positive impact.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed

FOUNDATION

There are few things as exciting to watch as when a young person finds a spark that lights his or her imagination on fire. There are wide eyes, rapid questions, a desire to try, to learn, to try again. That SPARK is the start of an amazing future.

Illinois 4-H Foundation donors help provide these SPARKS. Through philanthropic contributions, new programs are given life, resources are made available, and youth have new experiences. Your gifts help ignite the imagination of youth across the state. I hope you have seen and felt the many SPARKS through the stories highlighted in this year’s CloverSeed. If you are a donor to the Illinois 4-H Foundation—we thank you. If you have not yet personally felt the excitement of being a part of the Illinois 4-H SPARK, I hope you will consider making a gift.

ILLINOIS 4-H FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

Angie H. Barnard Illinois 4-H Foundation Executive Director

HELP CREATE MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ILLINOIS YOUTH

The Illinois 4-H Foundation Board of Directors is always looking for passionate and enthusiastic individuals to help build relationships to generate financial resources for Illinois 4-H. With you we can do more! If you are interested in serving, please email illinois4hfoundation@illinois.edu or call 217-333-9295

Dave Randall, Indiana Kevin Carey, McLean County Heather Thompson, McLean County Jerry Hicks, Sangamon County Dan Kelley, McLean County Louise Rogers, Champaign County Jan Sibley, Wisconsin Janine Heidtke, McHenry County Holly Spangler, Fulton County Melissa Wilson, Saline County Emma Coursey, Warren County Olivia Charles, Carroll County Jenny Webb, McLean County Brian Deverman, Missouri Lila Jeanne Eichelberger, Champaign County, emeritus Lisa Diaz, ex-officio Kim Meenen Bishop, ex-officio Shelly Nickols Richardson, ex-officio Tina Veal, ex-officio

THE POWER OF 4-H IS IN THE PEOPLE!

The depth and reach of positive youth development experiences is only possible with the statewide and local staff to execute 4-H and other Extension programs for youth. Current budgets allow for staffing at a 1:5,000-20,000 youth ratio. In some counties, there are even more youth per staff member. To provide more positive experiences for youth, we need more boots on the ground.

Private support is essential to building the financial capacity to attract and retain top-notch professionals, and, ultimately, is a philanthropic investment in the Illinois 4-H program. One specific funding priority is to endow the state 4-H program leader position. Gifts in support of this position will relieve other funding sources to be available for increased 4-H staffing throughout the state. Ultimately, an investment in this endowment has duplicate impact by also reaching more youth with additional professionals.

Donors who provide support to endow the state 4-H leader position will assist Illinois 4-H in closing the gap for youth in Illinois to have access to hands-on learning, service, leadership and workplace readiness experiences.

Foundation at 217-333-9295 or illinois4Hfoundation@illinois.edu.

LONG-TERM FUNDING PRIORITIES

• Endow the State 4-H Program Leader position

• Assistance to send youth to regional, state and national experiences

• Provide opportunities for career exploration

• Funding to provide additional staff in order to provide more opportunities to include new youth in 4-H programming.

4-H FOUNDATION AWARDS $45,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS

youth exhibit excellence and mastery in these interest areas. These awards celebrate the hard work, dedication, growth, and leadership these youth have exhibited.”

“These

DR. LISA DIAZ, 4-H ASSISTANT DEAN AND DIRECTOR

STATE 4-H AWARD WINNERS

Forty-five young adults were chosen as scholarship winners in one of nine divisions of the State 4-H Award. Each winner receives a $1,000 scholarship.

The Animal Sciences award recognizes youth who have demonstrated and maintained a high standard of 4-H excellence and mastery in their animal science projects.

The winners are:

• Justin Irwin, Boone County

• Lauren Wolter, Clinton County

• Anna Curley, McDonough County

• Emma Coursey, Warren County

• Jacqueline Schertz, Woodford County

This award was sponsored by Tim & Belinda Carey, George Obernagel, Keith & Lissa Parr, and Mark & Lee Ann Gossett.

The Civil Engagement & Global Living award recognizes youth that have focused on 4-H work in service to/for others.

The winners are:

• Lydia Oker, Kendall County

• Sydney Reppy, Kendall County

• Anthony Joiner, Macoupin County

• Carina Engst, McLean County

• J Alden Knodle, Montgomery County

This award is sponsored Ron & Melanie Warfield and Nannette Armstrong.

The Creative & Performing Arts & Communications award recognizes youth that have focused their 4-H work on the arts and the art of communicating with others.

The winners are:

• Elena Hevrdejs, Lake County

• Austin McNamara, McHenry County

• Nicole VandeWalker, McHenry County

• Clare Montavon, Ogle County

• Jorgi Dupureur, Tazewell County

This award is sponsored by Dee Murray, Kevin & Janette Rhoades, and the Illinois 4-H Foundation Legacy of Leadership Endowment.

The Food Systems award focuses on youth who have focused on food production, processing, distribution, and access. The winners are:

• Sophia Holmes, Cook County

• Jenna Haas, Jo Daviess County

• Emily Reppy, Kendall County

• Lexi Cobin, Perry County

• Callysta Borders, Union County

This award is sponsored by Bernie & Susan Heisner, Donna Mueller, Evelyn Brandt Thomas, Dr. Larry Hageman, and Ray & Patricia Brownfield.

The Healthy Living & Nutrition award focuses on youth who are helping their communities make healthy decisions and lead healthy lifestyles. The winners are:

• Libby Larkin, Livingston County

• Braylee Gilmore, Macoupin County

• Reagan Parks, McLean County

• Emma Salverson, Peoria County

• Victoria Zwilling, Richland County

This award is sponsored by Patricia Clickener, Donna Mueller, Kevin & Janette Rhoades, and Dr. Janice Seitz.

The Leadership award recognizes youth that have focused on the development of leadership skills, including offices held, committees served on, programs led, and public presentations given on behalf of 4-H. The winners are:

• Dylan Zwilling, Champaign County

• Justin Gergen, DuPage County

• Michelle Wang, Jackson County

• Katelyn Engel, Knox County

• Skye Schumaker, McLean County

This award is sponsored by Patricia Clickener, Donna Mueller, Dr. Janice Seitz, and Chicago Farmers.

The Natural Resources & Environmental Science award recognizes youth who have focused on environmental stewardship. The winners are:

• Kierstan Lampe, Clinton County

• Audra Spielman, Grundy County

• Matias Habib, Kendall County

• Elaan Bader, Montgomery County

• Lillian Frazee,Sangamon County

This award was sponsored by Brian & Kristin Deverman, Sharon & Art Tenhouse, Mark & Mary Kaufman, Walter Lynn, Colleen Callahan-Burns.

The Personal Growth award recognizes youth that have focused on personal growth through their participation in the 4-H program. The winners are:

• Hannah Johnson, Fulton County

• Elizabeth Melton, Kane County

• Klarissa Helton, Logan County

• Cole Rappe, Macon County

• Campbell Russo, Winnebago County

This award is sponsored by Patricia Clickener, Dave & Lisa McMurtry, Barbara & George Clark, and Dr. Janice Seitz.

The STEM & Robotics award recognizes youth who have focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. The winners are:

• Nathan Fernando Munoz-Lo, Cook County

• Lauren Luker, Edwards County

• Zoe Ault, Kankakee County

• Dhruv Rebba, McLean County

• Lauren Haas, Tazewell County

This award was sponsored by the Lisa Woessner Memorial 4-H Science Endowment, Sharon & Art Tenhouse, Dee Murray, and Landon Frye.

THE VERN & LEONA SHAFFER FAMILY 4-H LEGACY IS HONORED BY 4-H FOUNDATION

As a 50-year active Ursa Indian Grave Home Extension club member in Adams County, the late Leona Shaffer sparked a lasting love for Extension and 4-H. Over five generations, 42 Shaffer family members have contributed a combined 346 years of 4-H club membership. Their legacy is honored as the 2022 Illinois 4-H Foundation Family Spirit Award.

Leona spent many years as a host and officer for her Extension club, participating well into her 90’s. Many family members fondly remember Leona helping with their 4-H projects throughout her lifetime. Generations gained fond memories and skills that benefit them in their careers today.

“I have used and continue to use communications and leadership skills that I have learned through 4-H,” says Kaylyn Kirlin, Leona’s great-granddaughter. “It has translated into my career as a registered nurse, an active volunteer in my church, and in the children’s schools.”

Many 4-H members from the Shaffer family went on to volunteer with the organization, serving a combined 238 years as 4-H volunteers, including a combined 24 years of club leadership.

“Being a 4-H leader has been so rewarding,” says Leona’s granddaughter Carol (Shaffer) Hull. “Watching these members go from being shy and timid about giving a talk or demonstration or even speaking up at a meeting to holding an office and leading our young members in community service activities has been a great joy.”

The Family Spirit Award recognizes Illinois families who have benefited from 4-H and continue to advocate for the Illinois 4-H program over multiple generations. In addition to length of 4-H membership, families advocate for the county and state 4-H programs through their community service and philanthropy.

EXTRAORDINARY VOLUNTEERS INDUCTED INTO 2022 ILLINOIS 4-H HALL OF FAME

Illinois 4-H volunteers empower and prepare youth for success as the program relies on its more than 16,000 volunteers to fill key leadership and mentoring roles. Longtime volunteers and former staff members were recently honored by the Illinois 4-H Foundation for their selfless dedication to the University of Illinois Extension 4-H youth development program.

Tim Walker, Douglas County

Jim McGuire, Du Page County

Dale Cash, Edgar County

Rebecca Perry, Edwards County

Julia Finfrock, Effingham County

Dennis Finfrock, Effingham County

Steve Meenen, Ford County

Michael Betz, Knox County

Kendra Betz, Knox County

Jill Hevrdejs, Lake County

Michelle Rich, LaSalle County

John “Ron” Waldrop, Lawrence County

Judy Lohse, Lee County

Amy Schlipf, Livingston County

Janet Elvidge, Montgomery County

Sheryl Hopkins, Ogle County

Lyle Hopkins, Ogle County

Carol Cowser; Peoria County

Diana Leischner, Piatt County

Esther Waddy, Pulaski County

Becky Steber, Richland County

Rick Davis, White County

Sandy Davis, White County

Melody VonHolten, Whiteside County

Mariana Maldonado, Will County

Sharon Chapman, Williamson County

Kathy Koning-McClure, Winnebago County

Pete Fandel, Woodford County

Carolyn Roberts, Adams County

Melynda “Mindy” Jefferson, Bond County

Gene “Butch” Peters, Boone County

Shelly Allen-Miller, Bureau County

Sherry Allen, Bureau County

Sue Stephenson, Champaign County

Debra Forbes, Christian County

Gerald “Jerry” Forsythe, Clark County

Kimberly Wolter, Clinton County

Joe Stephenson, Crawford County

Roger Swingler, Cumberland County

Corinne Swingler, Cumberland County

Dale Sanderson, DeKalb County

Kim Gibbons, Dewitt County

Robyn Hendel, Fulton County

Diane McLuckie, Grundy County

Andrew “Andy” Miller Jr., Hamilton County

Natalie Lionberger, Hancock County

Sara Nimrick, Henderson County

Angela Reed, Henry County

Julie Fischer, Iroquois County

Marge Thompson, Jasper County

Steve Norris, Jefferson County

Mary Thompson, Jersey County

Goldie Foley, Jo Daviess County

Doris Braddock, Kane County

Rita Adams, Kankakee County

Mary Schobert; Kendall County

Patty Huffer, Logan County

David Schafer, Macoupin County

Helen Schafer, Macoupin County

Patricia Stanton, Madison County

Deanna Thomas, Marion County

Lori Toepper, Marshall County

Timothy Fanter, Mason County

Karen Cox, Massac County

Allen Barclay, McDonough County

LeeAnn McNamara, McHenry County

Rachel Kridner, McLean County

Michael “Mike” Peterson, Mercer County

Wilbert “Gene” Kraemer, Monroe County

Larry Elvidge, Montgomery County

Julie Derrer, Rock Island County

Darrell Beutler, Saint Clair County

James Bond, Saline County

Jeanette Bond, Saline County

Sharon Lounsberry, Sangamon/Menard County

John Brix, Shelby County

Joseph Tracy, Stark County

Dean Kuper, Stephenson County

Wayne Deppert, Tazewell County

Vonda Hill, Union County

Holly Clem, Vermilion County

Jason Tennis, Wabash County

Randal Shimmin, Warren County

Steve Harre, Washington County

Leadership from the University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) and Illinois Extension gathered in Stronghurst, Illinois in April to celebrate Nann Armstrong’s gift of farmland to the University of Illinois Foundation. Gifted in 2019, the Armstrong Family Farm supports the Department of Human Development and Family Studies and Illinois 4-H, both of which have been a part of Armstrong’s heritage for multiple generations.

With a gift of farmland, she ensures her family’s legacy will continue to impact current and future generations of Illinois 4-H members and students in the College of ACES Department of Human Development and Family Studies.

WITH A GIFT OF FARMLAND, ARMSTRONG ENSURES HER FAMILY’S LEGACY WILL CONTINUE TO IMPACT CURRENT AND FUTURE GENERATIONS OF ILLINOIS 4-H MEMBERS.

Significant to Armstrong’s decision to gift the farmland was her relationship with the current farm operator, Kim Gullberg, and the ability for him to continue caring for the land after she made her gift.

Pictured: Ross Vancil, Henderson County 4-H member and National 4-H Congress delegate; Sam Iwinski, HDFS graduate student and Nann Armstrong Fellowship Recipient; Nann Armstrong, donor; Ramona Faith Oswald, Head, HDFS; Lisa Diaz, Assistant Dean and Director of Illinois 4-H; Germán Bollero, Interim Dean, ACES. Photo credit: college of ACES

IDEAS FOR GIVING

Donate stock or mutual fund shares: Donating appreciated securities that you have held one year or longer, such as stock or mutual funds, can be a tax- wise way to support Illinois 4-H. You may:

• 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).

IRA charitable gift: Distributions from your traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) 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 gift through your estate: By sharing the following language with your estate-planning attorney, you can provide a gift to UIF to benefit Illinois 4-H in your will or trust.

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

Naming UIF beneficiary of your transferable-on-death or payable-on-death brokerage or investment accounts are also wonderful options to support 4-H.

To learn more about these options, contact Angie Barnard at abarnard@illinois.edu or 217-333-9295.

University of Illinois 4-H CloverSeed | Annual