Learn how you can develop life skills in 4-H

The new 4-H year started Sept. 1 and 4-H clubs in McHenry County are now reorganizing and enrolling returning and new club members.

The 4-H program is about developing and learning life skills. Using these life skills, members learn how to manage their resources, work together in groups, develop critical thinking skills and communicate with others … all skills and talents that will carry through to their adult lives.

Many 4-H clubs get involved in community service activities. Through such efforts as cleaning up neighborhoods or assisting with local food pantries, 4-H members learn citizenship and leadership skills and develop working relationships with their community leaders. 4-H participation is open to all youth.

If your child is interested in participating in the 4-H program and is between the ages of 8 and 18 as of Sept. 1, he/she is eligible to be a 4-H member. For details on 4-H in McHenry County, call University of Illinois Extension at (815) 338-3737 or check www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/ mchenry.