United Way believes that education is the cornerstone of individual and community success. As a Bureau County United Way member agency, University of Illinois Extension is providing educational programs for youth, ages 5-18, to engage them in learning about themselves and the world around them and provide opportunities to develop mastery and practice generosity.

4-H is the largest youth program in the world and its evidence–based success has been proven for over 100 years. 4-H provides youth with critical life skills. Through 4-H clubs, youth gain a sense of belonging within their groups, independence through decision-making and responsibility, a spirit of generosity toward others, and a variety of opportunities to master skills and knowledge. Research shows that young people who participate in 4-H clubs do better in school, are more likely to see themselves going to college, are less likely to engage in risky behaviors, and they contribute more to their communities. 4-H programs also focus on learning employment skills, experiencing healthy relationships, becoming physically fit, thinking green, and engaging in science.

The local 4-H program offers many different opportunities for youth and family involvement. Bureau County has 4-H community clubs located across the county, programs at after-school sites, in-school programs, special events and workshops, and new Special Interest Clubs (SPIN) where youth meet to learn about a specific project or topic. New SPIN clubs include shooting sports clubs and after-school science clubs.