Illinois 4-H is preparing young people for life after high school, according to data from the 2026 Illinois 4-H Senior Survey released on Apr. 27.
The survey of 334 graduating members found that those who participated in the program for an average of nearly twelve years are leaving with strong skills in workforce readiness, leadership, and clear plans for their future. Nearly nine out of ten respondents said their experience helped them feel ready for work and adulthood, while eighty-three percent reported feeling prepared for college. In addition, ninety-eight percent said they gained skills useful in a future job.
“4-H provides young people with hands-on experiences that build confidence, leadership, and real-world skills,” said Kevin Carey, University of Illinois Extension 4-H assistant dean and program leader. “These findings reinforce that youth are not only prepared for what comes next, they are beyond ready.”
The report also shows that eighty-four percent plan to attend a two- or four-year college. Of those planning to attend college, eighty-five percent have already chosen a major such as agriculture, education, health sciences, engineering or business. Forty-two percent of participants in state-level events said these opportunities influenced their decisions about college and career paths by exposing them to new fields.
Leadership development is highlighted as a key part of the program: seventy-three percent served as club officers and many took on other roles at county or state levels. Participants reported improved communication skills and responsibility through these experiences. Beyond leadership activities, eighty percent held part-time jobs during high school and fourteen percent started businesses using skills learned through the program.
Respondents also earned certifications like food safety or CPR/first aid. The survey found ninety-four percent considered 4-H an important part of their identity; ninety-three percent felt supported by peers in the organization.
Illinois 4-H operates under University of Illinois Extension serving youth statewide with programs focused on leadership development as well as STEM fields like science or agriculture. For more information about Illinois 4-H programs visit https://4h.extension.illinois.edu/.
The University of Illinois contributes to economic and societal progress through its educational and research efforts according to the official website. It serves as the flagship campus of the University of Illinois System according to the official website. The university enrolls students from all fifty states and over one hundred countries while offering more than one hundred fifty undergraduate programs and one hundred graduate programs according to the official website. The institution aims to advance discovery, innovation, and public engagement through research and education according to the official website. It functions as a public research institution according to the official website situated in Urbana-Champaign according to the official website.
