4-H members can schedule a visit to the Foundation to participate in workshops, summer programs, conservation and service projects, and custom programs to help complete their special interest projects. Participants also gain an appreciation for the environment and our natural resources. The Foundation also offers several programs for the Cloverbud groups and many profession development opportunities for leaders and educators interested in natural resources.

Workshops are offered at McGraw to help 4-H members complete their interest projects. Workshops are generally scheduled in the summer during the week or on Saturdays from 10-2 depending on the nature of the workshop. Call 847-428-2240 for information on upcoming workshops scheduled at the Foundation. Custom workshops can also be arranged for six or more members. Subjects may include:

• Archery            • Natural Resources
• Crops              • Outdoor Meals / Skills
• Embryology      • Soils
• Entomology      • Sportfishing
• Forestry           • Wildlife
• Illinois Plants

The Foundation offers weeklong day camps every summer. These exciting programs are offered for all ages on a variety of subjects and several meet requirements for 4-H interest projects. Call to request a summer program brochure.

All 4-H clubs can participate in conservation projects that will benefit the native plants and animals and the Foundation. These may include restoration work or service projects.

The Foundation is a unique place with a variety of programs to offer. Custom programs can be arranged on a variety of subjects to help meet your needs.

Cloverbud opportunities include the following programs: (please see School Programs for more details)

•  Sense-ational Hike                  •  Birds of a Feather
•  Wildlife Wonders                     •  Turkey Talk
•  Maple Syrup Magic

4-H leaders and educators can also attend workshops to further their knowledge of natural resources. Workshops are offered throughout the year and often address specific needs of Illinois educators. (please see For Teachers for more information)

Registration for 4-H Programs

Most programs offered at McGraw are free, however, some have a small fee.

Our minimum group size is 6 participants.

We require 1 adult per 10 children to accompany the 4-H members.

4-H programs are generally scheduled directly after school Tuesday-Friday, but long programs on weekends can also be arranged.

If your group arrives more than 15 minutes late, the program will be shortened. If you are more than 1/2 hour late the program may be cancelled.

Custom programs can be arranged with advanced notice. Let us know how we can help meet your needs!

Call for more information or to schedule a program. Our calendar fills quickly so call soon! (847) 428-2240. Click here to download our program brochure.

For more information on 4-H check out our links page for regional and national programs.