Contact Us

Jodi Baumgartner
Program Coordinator, 4-H and Youth Development
University of Illinois Extension
421 W Pines Rd, Ste 10
Oregon, IL 61061
Phone: 815-732-2191
FAX: 815-732-4007
jbmgrtnr@illinois.edu

Cathy Anderson
Office Support Assistant
University of Illinois Extension
421 W Pines Rd, Ste 10
Oregon, IL 61061
Phone: 815-732-2191
FAX: 815-732-4007
canders3@illinois.edu

Johnna B. Jennings
Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development
University of Illinois Extension
421 W Pines Rd, Ste 10
Oregon, IL 61061
Phone: 815-732-2191
FAX: 815-732-4007
jbjennin@illinois.edu

Ogle County 4-H

Ogle County 4-H

What is 4-H?

4-H is a youth organization that belongs to the members, their families, and other interested adults who serve as volunteer leaders. Professional leadership is provided by University of Illinois Extension staff. Support for 4-H programs is a joint effort of local organizations, county government, the University of Illinois, and the United States Dept. of Agriculture.

In 4-H, young people share, grow, and learn together from various projects, events, and activities in informal situations under the guidance of their families and other volunteer adult leaders. Members can choose projects that fit them and the places where they live. Group activities and events such as trips, camps, fairs, shows, and workshops provide additional learning experiences and opportunities.

4-H is open to all youth and adults regardless of their ethnic background, race, creed, or disability. Most 4-H clubs have meetings for the entire membership once a month. During these meetings, decisions are made about group sponsored activities such as community service efforts, project opportunities, and fund-raising efforts.

Regardless of the structure, a 4-H group may involve families, neighbors, relatives, and others. Participants have fun learning, working, and succeeding together in the home, community, and beyond.

Purpose of 4-H

The purpose of 4-H is two-fold:

  • To provide an opportunity for parents and other interested adults to work with youth in their development.
  • To help youth learn skills for living through a fun, action-oriented, and practical program.

The major focus of 4-H is on the activities of the local 4-H club. Volunteers serve as 4-H leaders who plan and carry out organized learning experiences with youth. The many county and state activities are considered secondary. Their purpose is one of supplementing and supporting local club programs. The 4-H Youth Development Educators & staff are resources for parents and other adults in the 4-H program.

  • 4-H Online

  • 4-H Record Book Guidelines

  • 4-H Record Keeping Basics

  • Cloverbud Projects and Policies
    The 4-H Cloverbud Program offers youth, ages 5-7, the opportunity to enjoy the many benefits of 4-H. Cloverbuds attend club meetings with older 4-Hers, but spend a portion of the meeting time involved in hands-on educational and recreational activities designed especially for their age group. Like their older counterparts, 4-H Cloverbuds can participate in club and county sponsored events, complete records, and even show at the 4-H Fair. Policies for Ogle County Cloverbud members are as follows: Cloverbud members must be at least 5 years old by September 1st of the current 4-H year. Cloverbud members should enroll on the "Cloverbud Enrollment Form" available through the Extension Office and from club leaders. Cloverbud members may exhibit at the annual County 4-H Fair in the "Cloverbud" division. All exhibits receive special Cloverbud rosettes, but are not eligible for premium monies. Cloverbud members are not expected to give talks and demonstrations like their older 4-H counterparts. Cloverbud members will become official "4-Hers" as soon as they will be 8 years old by September 1st of the new 4-H year. Work with local club leaders to complete sign-up. They have the forms you'll need to get started towards a rewarding Cloverbud experience.

  • Ogle County Fair Site