Kane, McHenry counties celebrate National 4-H Week

Submitted by University of Illinois Extension

Oct. 2-8 is National 4-H Week, and Kane County is celebrating the 4-H youths who have made an impact on the community, and are stepping up to the challenges of a complex and changing world.

On Tuesday, Oct. 4, 4-H youth will connect with the community by holding a “4-H Fun Night” at 6:30 p.m. in the 4-H Industrial Building at the Kane County Fairgrounds, off Randall Road in St. Charles.

“4-H Fun Night” offers youth, ages 5-18, the opportunity to participate in carnival-type booths and a chance to win small prizes, along with the opportunity to learn more about 4-H programs in Kane County.

Recent findings from Tufts University's 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development indicate that young people in 4-H are three times more likely to contribute to their communities than youth not participating in 4-H. Notably, the Tufts research discovered that the structured learning, encouragement and adult mentoring that 4-Hers receive play a vital role in helping them actively contribute to their communities. In Kane County, more than 300 youths and 300 volunteers are involved in 4-H.

“I realize that 4-H has shaped my children into the people they have become,” said Kane County 4-H Leader Pat Bunge. “Responsible members of a community, they step up when needed. Winners, yet knowing how to be gracious when all does not go as planned. The model of 4-H achievement has contributed to their success far beyond the club environment.”

4-H youth are a living breathing, culture-changing revolution for doing the right thing, breaking through obstacles and pushing our country forward by making a measurable difference right where they live.

Learn how you can “Join the Revolution of Responsibility” at 4-H.org/revolution, or contact Doris Braddock at the University of Illinois Extension-Kane County at (630) 584-6166 or dbraddock@illinois.edu.

Woodstock event: The University of Illinois Extension-McHenry County will hold an open house for Join the Revolution of Responsibility” from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, at the extension office, 1102 McConnell Road, Woodstock. This event for new members and volunteers will feature project demonstrations, volunteer opportunities, new county and state leadership programs, and 4-H alumni sharing their 4-H stories. For details, call Janine Heidtke at (815) 338-3737.