Illinois 4-H Hosts Fall Open Houses Across Three Counties

Families in DuPage, Kane, and Kendall counties are invited to participate in fall open house events organized by Illinois 4-H. The events will provide an opportunity for families to engage with local 4-H clubs and discover a variety of activities available to youth in their communities.

The University of Illinois Extension, along with 4-H clubs, will host interactive activities designed for all ages. Families will also have the chance to connect with staff and volunteer leaders who support the 4-H mission. The open houses are scheduled for October 1 at the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles, October 9 at the Kendall County Fairgrounds in Yorkville, and October 12 at the DuPage County Fairgrounds in Wheaton.

Andrea Farrier, a 4-H Youth Development Educator with the University of Illinois Extension, highlighted the importance of these events, stating, “In 4-H, youth are brought together in clubs, led by caring adults, who welcome them as a part of the larger 4-H family.” This emphasizes the community-building aspect of the program.

Illinois 4-H focuses on fostering leadership, citizenship, and essential life skills among youth. Participants can explore various projects that encompass animal science, creative arts, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), healthy living, and environmental science. These initiatives are designed to provide valuable experiences at local, state, and national levels.

The open house events are free and open to the public, making them accessible to all interested families. Membership options are available for youth aged 8 to 18, with a special Cloverbud program catering to younger children aged 5 to 7.

For further details about the events or how to become involved, individuals can reach out via phone at 630-584-6166, email at [email protected], or visit the website at go.illinois.edu/info4Hdkk. Engaging with 4-H offers a valuable opportunity for young people to build skills, connect with peers, and contribute to their communities.