10/13/2026
Opportunities available for youth and families:
1. Northern IL 4-H Camp Counselors Wanted: While many associate summer camps with activities such as swimming, hiking, and campfires, research consistently shows that the most impactful element of camp is the counselors themselves. Counselors are the face of camp. Our counselors are not simply participants; they are program leaders who collaborate to plan all aspects of the camp experience. These experiences build career readiness and strengthen leadership, time management, teamwork, conflict management, guiding others, and emotional awareness. These experiences mirror real-world environments where individuals must collaborate, lead, and respond effectively. If you are ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference this summer, apply to become a Northern IL 4-H Camp Counselor! No previous camp experience is required; we provide all training you will need to be an excellent counselor. And don’t forget- these counts toward school service hours!
· What will you do: Lead camp activities and games, mentor younger campers, build leadership and teamwork skills, and create lifelong memories in the great outdoors.
· Who can apply: Youth ages 15–20 (on June 6). Must attend all counselor training sessions; 4-H membership not required. No camp experience needed.
· How to apply:
§ Complete the online application: Northern IL 4-H Camp Counselor Application 2026-2027 – Fill out form
§ Provide us with 2 references (details about who these references may be are on the application): 4-H Camp Counselor Team Reference Form 2026-2027 – Fill out form
(Please note it is the responsibility of the applicant to provide the above link to your references AND follow up with them to make sure they complete the form by the deadline- don’t forget to provide the correct link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/tLS4JcjGJk )
§ Complete the application, and we must receive both reference forms by November 1.
Have questions? Join our Camp Counselor Q&A Session on October 20 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Zoom. Stop in anytime during this virtual, come-and-go event to learn more about camp, the counselor role, and the application process. https://go.illinois.edu/CampCounselorOfficeHours.
Flavor Makers Spin Club: Do you love food and enjoy trying new things in the kitchen? Then 4-H Flavor Makers is the club for you! This fun, hands-on SPIN Club will explore all things food, from cooking and baking to cake decorating, candy making, and creative food presentation. Members will build kitchen skills, explore different cultures through food, and gain confidence by creating delicious recipes and treats. Activities include making homemade pizza, baking pies, designing charcuterie boards, decorating cakes and cookies, exploring international foods, and much more. Whether you're an experienced cook or just getting started, Flavor Makers is a great place to learn, create, and make new friends. Come ready to mix, measure, taste, and discover new flavors while having fun along the way! Open to youth in 4th-12th grade. Call 815.858.2273 or register online by November 11 at https://go.illinois.edu/JDC4-HFlavorMakersClub
Location: Elizabeth Community Building, 402 West St., Elizabeth
Dates: Nov. 16, Dec. 14, Jan. 11, Feb. 15, Apr. 12, and May 3
Time: 6:00- 7:30 pm
Cost: $35 for 4-H members; or $40 for non-4-H members
4-H Trail of Discovery: Join us for a fun outdoor adventure where youth and families can explore hands-on activities inspired by 4-H! Whether you're already involved in 4-H, curious about joining, or simply looking for something fun to do on a day off from school, the Trail of Discovery is for you. Wander the trail, try new things, meet new people, and discover all the possibilities along the way. Drop in anytime and explore at your own pace! Please register so we can prepare supplies and ensure a great experience for all participants. Register online at https://go.illinois.edu/4-HTrailofDiscovery or call 815-858-2273.
When: Wednesday, November 25, 2026
Time: 9:30-11:30 am (drop in anytime and explore at your own pace)
Where: Elizabeth Community Fairgrounds, 402 West St, Elizabeth, IL 61028
Who: All ages welcome
What:
Book Walk: Enjoy a story along the trail
STEM Challenge and Experiment
Health: Build your own first aid kit
Photography: Try an outdoor photo challenge
Animal Science: Learn about beef cattle and their care
Nature-inspired Art: Express your creativity outdoors
Dairy: Learn about dairy, dairy science, and make ice cream
And more
Cloverbud Spin Club: A SPIN club is a short-term, hands-on learning experience focused on a special topic for a selective group of youth. This club is designed for Cloverbuds (ages 5-7 as of September 1) to explore, create, and have FUN! Participants will make crafts, play games, learn about nature, animals, science, and more, while building friendships and confidence. Register by calling the Extension Office at 815.858.2273 or by visiting https://go.illinois.edu/JDC4-HCloverbudSpinClub. Register by December 15.
Dates: Meetings are December 7, January 25, February 8, March 8, and April 5
Time: 5:30-6:30 pm
Where: Jo Daviess County Extension Office.
Cost: $25 for non-4-H members and $10 for current 4-H members.
