The Illinois 4-H Junior Leadership Conference (JLC) is an engaging, hands-on event designed for junior high 4-H members in 7th and 8th grade. It introduces youth to the many opportunities within Illinois 4-H while helping them begin their leadership journey. Participants build skills in communication, decision making, and teamwork through interactive workshops and activities. The event is planned and led by the State 4-H Youth Leadership Team, giving members the chance to learn from their peers while exploring leadership, 4-H opportunities, and project areas.
Jr. Leadership Conference (JLC) will be held November 14-15, 2026
Open to: Any youth in 7th or 8th grade in fall 2026
Cost: $215 (Fee covers lodging, t-shirt, meals, conference supplies, and activities.)
Conference location: Crowne Plaza Springfield, 3000 S. Dirksen Parkway, Springfield, IL.
Registration Opens: August 31, 2026 Registration Deadline: October 19, 2026
- Registration is limited to the first 100 youth who register.
- Participants are encouraged to register early as this conference usually reaches capacity before the registration deadline. A waitlist will be activated once capacity is reached.
- Required forms: All forms will be included in the online registration form.
Registration Guidance:
- Non-members will need to create a ZSuite account before registering for the event. Check out ZSuite Enrollment Info to learn more.
- Go to the ZSuite Event Registration How-To for step-by-step and video instructions on registering for Illinois 4-H Events.
Payment options during registration:
- Members pay on their own by credit card at the time of registration.
- My County is Paying. Some (not all) counties may be able to assist with the registration fee. 4-H Members need to check with local extension staff prior to registration. County staff will submit a County Payment Coverage Form for State Events if they will be covering all or part of the event fees.
- Scholarship needed. Members will apply directly during the conference registration process.
Cancellation Policy:
Cancellations made by October 9, 2026, will receive a full refund. After October 9, 2026, cancellations are non-refundable.
How to Apply for Scholarships:
Scholarship funds are available for youth attendees who need financial assistance to attend the conference. To apply, complete the scholarship information requested during conference registration in ZSuites. Scholarship applications will be reviewed closer to the registration deadline, and youth will be notified by email if they have been awarded a scholarship.
We appreciate the Illinois 4-H Foundation's support in providing these scholarship opportunities.
Saturday Workshops
Survival Skills: Tackling Failure in Life’s Jungle
In the wild world of leadership, challenges are everywhere but so is growth! In this workshop, participants will explore how facing fear and failure head-on builds strength and confidence. Through reflection and goal-setting, you’ll learn how to navigate life’s jungle and come out stronger, braver, and ready to lead.
Build Your Brand: Unleash Your Inner Wild
Every leader has a unique roar! In this interactive workshop, participants will explore their authentic selves and learn to embrace what makes them stand out in the jungle of life. Through engaging activities and self-reflection, you’ll discover how to express your individuality, build confidence, and create a personal brand that reflects the true you.
Overcoming Peer Pressure
In a world full of noise, staying true to yourself takes courage. In this workshop, participants will learn strategies to stand up for their values and resist negative peer pressure. Through team activities and interactive discussions, you’ll strengthen your ability to make confident choices and lead with integrity, even when the vines get tangled.
Wild Moves: Dance, Wellness, and Confidence in Motion
Get your heart pumping and your energy flowing in the jungle! This upbeat workshop uses dance and movement to promote physical wellness, confidence, and teamwork. Participants will explore how staying active supports both body and mind while learning fun ways to express leadership through motion. No dance experience needed—just a willingness to move, groove, and let your wild side shine!
Sunday Workshops
Community Service
Leaders don’t just survive in the jungle, they make it better for others. In this hands-on workshop, participants will explore how small acts of service can create a big difference in their communities. Through interactive activities and real-world examples, you’ll learn how to identify community needs, take action, and lead with compassion.
Jungle Escape
In this interactive “Jungle Escape” workshop, participants work together to overcome challenges that represent common fears like embarrassment, failure, and asking for help. Through fun, hands-on activities and teamwork, they learn that courage grows when you step outside your comfort zone and support others along the way.
Leadership in Practice
Ready to lead your pack? In this active workshop, you’ll guide your team through challenges and icebreakers designed to test your problem-solving and leadership skills. Learn how to communicate, motivate, and adapt like a true jungle trailblazer. By the end, you’ll walk away with practical skills to lead your club and community with confidence.
