Ensuring that our communities have access to nutritious and culturally relevant foods is a challenge that has motivated young 4-H leaders to get more involved in growing, distributing, and sharing food across the state of Illinois. In 2022-23 alone, 250 Illinois 4-H youth leaders reached over 5,000 Illinois families with gardening and food access service projects. Through small and large-scale food production, coupled with effective advocacy and engagement in their communities' civic life, Illinois 4-H youth are rising to the occasion and helping to create resilient and inclusive food systems. 

"I learned that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to. People are willing to help! They just need someone to organize the community around something that matters to them." 4-H Youth Leader, White County, IL
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Hydroponics
An introduction to the process of growing plants without the use of soil developed by the 4-H program at the University of Tennessee. This signature…
Farmer
Help students understand where their food comes from and develop an appreciation for farmers, producers, and families involved in the farm-to-table…
Gardening
A 10-week unit of study that is hands-on and academically rich developed by the 4-H program at Texas A & M; Learn, Grow, Eat & GO! The…
woman and girl working in garden in early spring
The perfect beginning for any gardening program. Engage youth in planning, designing, and implementing their own garden. Help foster a love of…