Who wants to be a leader in your community? 4-H civic engagement programs empower young people to be well informed citizens who are actively engaged in their communities and the world. Youth learn about civic affairs, build decision-making skills and develop a sense of understanding and confidence in relating and connecting to other people. These life skills help grow 4-H youth into true leaders.
Show Your Skills
- Take the Community Emergency Response Training and become a youth first responder
- Create a video about your community and post it virtually to share with others
- Research 4-H across the US and/or in other countries; create a display about what you learn
Service and Leadership
- Assist with or organize a food drive
- Help someone in your neighborhood with a project
- Take a neighbor a gift of flowers or food from your garden
- Set up a local recycling station
- Design an escape plan for family in case of a fire
- Start a 4-H SPIN Club at your school
- Take on a new job around your house
Entrepreneurship
- Become a certified babysitter
- Sell at your local farmers market
Technology Connection
- Develop a community map using drones - determine what type of map can be beneficial in your community
Connecting with a Mentor
- City Council or County Board members
- Service organization members
- Contact local police and fire departments
Events
- 4-H Hunger Ambassador
- Food Action Academy
- Community gardens
- Blessing boxes
Project Manuals & Exhibit Requirements
- Exploring the Treasures of 4-H
- Citizenship: Level 1 - All About Me
- Citizenship: Level 2 - My Neighborhood
- Citizenship: Level 3 - My Community and Me
Purchase manuals on the Shop Illinois 4-H Store.
View exhibit requirements and scoresheets on the Illinois State Fair page.
University of Illinois Extension staff that contributed to this resource include Tanya Hetelle and April Littig
4-H Spark Sheets are a collaborative effort of 4-H staff, volunteers, alumni and teens from across Illinois. A big thanks to the many contributors and reviewers!