Through 4-H, boys and girls receive practical education and personal support that makes a critical difference in their growth and development. Our mission as trustees of the Chicago/Cook County 4-H Foundation is to obtain resources 4-H needs to support its programs that help young people learn skills for multicultural living.

Funding for 4-H comes from multiple sources today, with the Cook County Board of Commissioners providing the largest sum. The Chicago/Cook County 4-H Foundation makes the second largest local contribution for 4-H programs at $75,000-$100,000. Local dollars help to pay salaries of unit assistants and community workers who recruit, train, and support thousands of volunteers under the supervision of the 4-H/CES Unit and Center Educators.

Grants received from corporations and foundations make it possible for professionals, community workers and 4-H volunteers to reach youth in the city and suburbs. 4-H/Extension estimates that volunteers provide $3,200,000 in donated time. Volunteers have always been the backbone of 4-H, providing the positive adult leadership and role modeling that youth have always needed, and now need more than ever.