How Can I Get Involved?

To learn how you can get involved as a 4-H member or volunteer, contact your local University of Illinois Extension office.

Choose the 4-H Club That Is Right for You!

4-H Community Club

A group of five or more youth that participate in a sustained, Extension-sponsored educational program for at least six sessions. The club has a planned program, officers, and one or more projects per member. The 4-H club members may explore subjects as a group or work separately to develop their individual talents and interests. Club members participate in activities, such as giving short speeches or demonstrations, judging, tours, educational workshops, community service, volunteerism, and in special county, regional and state events. Typically, 4-H clubs meet throughout the year and continue from year to year. The club members represent a wide range of ages (from younger members to teens). The number of members in a 4-H club may vary from five to more than 100.

4-H Special Interest (SPIN) Club

SPIN clubs allow kids with common interests or hobbies to meet as a club and share their special interest. A SPIN club can be started with as few as one adult volunteer leader and five young people with an interest in a particular topic. While an adult leader provides expertise and guidance, club members take an active role in planning and running their own activities. With support from the Illinois 4-H Foundation, 12 4-H Video SPIN clubs were awarded a 4-H Media Tech Kit including: 2 iFlip videos, 1 miniDVD camcorder with tripod, a directional handheld microphone, a wireless lavalier microphone, and a laptop installed with free video and sound editing software.