National 4-H Week is in its final stages, and so too is the way the University of Illinois Extension is marking the occasion.  They have spent the week conducting fun, engaging activities for 4-H members.  The goal is to reinforce the ideals of 4-H, help its members find and develop their passions, and attract new youth to the program.  In addition to this week’s activities, the Extension will conduct classes on interesting topics in hopes of piquing interest in them from more kids and teens. 

Taylor Sinclair is the 4-H Youth Development Program Coordinator for the Extension.  As such, she has been behind much of the plans for 4-H week.  She says the week coincides with the early part of open enrollment, which is the best opportunity for kids and teens to join the program.

Each day in 4-H week has consisted of a different activity for participants.  The first day was “Sign Sunday,” and some of those signs may still be up around town to view. 

The Extension has several classes in the coming days and months for 4-H members.  Next on the calendar is an archery class.  It’s a four-part series, with sessions on October 12 and 26, along with November 2 and 9.

The class is part of what’s known as a “spin club.”  This refers to a group of members who work to gain skills in a specific interest over an extended period of time. 

Another spin club will get underway for this 4-H year in the area of sewing.  This series begins on November 16, and those who participate will be able to take home what they sew in the sessions. 

More information on the University of Illinois Extension’s 4-H involvements is available at 4h.extension.illinois.edu.  This website also has links to register for the aforementioned programs as well as many others.

Taylor Sinclair appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.