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