The Kankakee County 4-H/Youth Foundation was formed for (1) the purpose of promoting educational opportunities for participation in 4-H and youth activities in Kankakee County and (2) to encourage higher education through scholarships. To aid in furthering advanced education for the youth of Kankakee County, this year the Foundation is offering eight $1,000 scholarships for the 2006-2007 college year. Four will be granted to graduating high school seniors and four to returning college students.

Requirements for eligibility:

• Applicant should have demonstrated good academic performance.
• Applicant must have participated in the 4-H and youth programs in Kankakee County conducted by University of Illinois Extension, Kankakee County. This participation will be detailed as requested on the application form.
• Applicant will be pursuing a stated degree or certificate program at an accredited college or university.
• Four scholarships will be awarded to applicants who are presently enrolled in college or who have been out of school for a time and are now returning for further academic training. Four scholarships will be awarded to applicants who are members of the current year's high school graduating class.
• Any student who has received a 4-H/Youth Foundation Scholarship twice is no longer eligible to apply for further scholarships.

The scholarship funds are paid directly to the college or university for application to tuition, fees, books, etc. This payment is made following 4-H/Youth Foundation's receipt of a letter to the Scholarship Chairman by July 1 or earlier, from the scholarship recipient confirming enrollment at the chosen college. Please give office and address of the institution receiving this payment. The award recipient must maintain full-time student status. Monies not used in any one semester may be carried over for the next semester. Monies are not refunded or given directly to the awardees.

Scholarship applications may be secured from High School Guidance Offices, University of Illinois Extension, Kankakee County or Main 4-H Club Leaders.

The application blank and photo release must be completed and sent with your wallet-sized photo to Kankakee County

4-H/Youth Foundation, % Beth LaPlante, University of Illinois Extension, Kankakee Unit, 1650 Commerce Drive, Bourbonnais, IL 60914 to be received by April 17, 2006.

For further information, contact University of Illinois Extension, Kankakee County office at (815) 933-8337. See related article in 4-H Update. See related article in 4-H Update.

University of Illinois Extension celebrates Extension Week from April 23 – 29, 2006. The event recognizes the service University of Illinois Extension provides local Illinois communities. It is a time to celebrate ongoing education.

Come join us at our Open House, April 27 from 3 – 7 p.m. See how we can help you put knowledge to work!