URBANA, IL– The Illinois 4-H Experience Auction returns Sept. 18–20, offering 24 one-of-a-kind experiences and exclusive memorabilia that help support programming and opportunities for Illinois youth.
Supporters can preview the auction now, explore the offerings, and start planning their bids before bidding opens at 8 a.m. Central Time on Friday, Sept. 18, and closes Sunday, Sept. 20.
Illinois 4-H, part of University of Illinois Extension in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, is part of America’s largest youth development organization, reaching nearly 200,000 young people across the state of Illinois each year.
This year’s online auction features an array of unique packages unavailable anywhere else. Highlights include private air travel for a weeklong stay on Grand Cayman’s renowned Seven Mile Beach, luxury mountain getaways in Steamboat Springs and Park City, VIP access to Fighting Illini Basketball, game-worn Final Four memorabilia, family adventures, and distinctive Illinois experiences.
Proceeds from every winning bid directly support Illinois 4-H programs that help young people discover their passions, build leadership skills, explore career pathways, and become Beyond Ready for the future.
The Illinois 4-H Experience Auction is presented by the Illinois 4-H Foundation, whose volunteer Board of Directors works year-round to create opportunities that strengthen Illinois 4-H and expand opportunities for young people across the state.
“The Illinois 4-H Experience Auction is a testament to what can happen when alumni, friends, and industry partners come together to invest in the next generation,” said Brian Deverman, chair of the Illinois 4-H Foundation Board of Directors and the global senior product director at BRANDT. “Our board is proud to help bring together these one-of-a-kind experiences because every bid helps ensure more young people have access to the life-changing opportunities that Illinois 4-H provides.”
Questions about the auction — or interest in donating an experience for a future Illinois 4-H Experience Auction — may be directed to Angie Barnard at abarnard@illinois.edu.
About Illinois 4-H:
Illinois 4-H is the flagship youth development program of University of Illinois Extension, administered through the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. Through hands-on learning and life-changing experiences, Illinois 4-H prepares youth to be Beyond Ready — ready for college, career, military service, entrepreneurship, and more. Young people build confidence, leadership, and resilience as they explore interests from agriculture to computer science. Independent research and national surveys confirm the powerful outcomes of 4-H: participants are 40% more likely to pursue a college degree, twice as likely to obtain technical training, and two times more likely to serve in the military. With a legacy of cultivating leaders, Illinois 4-H continues to grow the next generation who are equipped to thrive in life and work today and beyond.
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