Local 4-H youth celebrate global citizenship at International Night

 

[April 26, 2023] 

Local 4-H’ers shared knowledge about cultures from around the world during the 2023 Logan/Menard/Sangamon 4-H International Night, which was held on Monday, April 17, at the Sangamon Extension Office in Springfield.

“You could make your own Chinese lantern, learn how to speak Danish, enjoy German chocolates or pretzels and explore artifacts from Mexico,” said 4-H Extension Educator Carissa Davis. “In addition, they shared their flags, maps, traditions and more. The youth were very creative in sharing what they have learned.”

Teams and individuals prepared educational displays that included photos, videos, traditional clothing, games, interactive crafts and even food to sample. After viewing all the displays, each individual or team gave a short presentation highlighting the most interesting things they learned about their county.

“International Night is a rewarding experience for both 4-H youth and our communities,” said Davis. “Through the 4-H Passport to the World project, youth not only learn about another country and its cultures, but they also learn about being a good global citizen and gain skills in presenting to the community.”

4-H members spend months studying a specific country and then work together with their club to create a booth displaying the geographical and cultural aspects of the nation. All have the option to prepare crafts or foods to reflect their study country. Participants selected which county they wanted to study. During the event, attendees shared what they learned about China, Denmark, Germany and Mexico.

Fun, hands-on activities like this nurture a passion for learning, as well as encourage youth to become good local and global citizens. International Night is just one of several 4-H opportunities that help youth raise awareness and understanding of the world around them.

More information about 4-H activities in Logan, Menard and Sangamon counties can be found at extension.illinois.edu/lms/4-h-youth-development.

Display about Denmark by Atlanta Ag 4-H Club

ABOUT ILLINOIS 4-H: Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension and administered through the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences.4-H grows true leaders, youth who are empowered for life today and prepared for a career tomorrow. The hands-on approach in 4-H gives young people guidance, tools and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research confirms the unparalleled impact of the 4-H experience, demonstrating that young people are four times more likely to contribute to their communities; two times more likely to make healthier choices; two times more likely to be civically active; and two times more likely to participate in STEM programs.

ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.

[Amy Zepp, 4-H Program Coordinator, Sangamon County]