LA SALLE COUNTY - LaSalle County 4-H members who were graduating seniors this year were recognized by Illinois 4-H with a 4-H memorabilia tassel. Seniors receiving the tassel were challenged to post a photo with their tassel for all to see.

During 2020, Illinois 4-H youth faced challenges during the COIVD-19 pandemic with school closures, 4-H cancellations, and 4-H exhibitions being moved to a virtual format.

“We recognize the challenges our 4-H youth faced, especially our 4-H members that were in their senior year of high school and missing many milestones in their school and 4-H careers,” said Tina Veal, 4-H Alumni & Constituent Engagement Manger with the Illinois 4-H program. “We wanted the opportunity to recognize those youth by creating a new 4-H memorabilia tassel to let 4-H youth know that we support them and are proud of the challenges they have overcome and to invite them stay connected to 4-H in their final years and as a 4-H alumnus.” This recognition was made possible with support from the Illinois 4-H Foundation.

All graduating 4-H members have been formally invited to join the Illinois 4-H Alumni Association. This association was established in 2016 to create a lifelong, statewide community of 4-H alumni and provide increased opportunities for meaningful engagement to increase awareness, pride, participation, volunteerism and philanthropic commitment to Illinois 4-H. 

4-H continues to build responsible and caring adults who are more likely to give back to their communities. The Illinois 4-H program has a strong history of making an impact on youth, building leaders and preparing them for success. “We want to remain connected to our 4-H alumni to see the impacts they make in their future careers and communities,” Veal said.

For information about joining 4-H or about the Illinois 4-H Alumni Association, contact your local Extension office or Tina Veal at the Illinois State 4-H office at vealt@illinois.edu.

4-H, the nation’s largest youth development organization, grows confident young people who are empowered for life today and prepared for career tomorrow. 4-H programs empower nearly six million young people across the U.S. through experiences that develop critical life skills.

For more information about LaSalle County 4-H opportunities, contact Toni Pienta, 4-H Youth Development Coordinator, at the LaSalle County Extension office (815) 433-0707.