Service is a hallmark of the Illinois 4-H program. The Illinois 4-H Foundation annually honors longtime volunteers and former staff members for their selfless dedication to 4-H, the University of Illinois Extension youth development program.
In 2020, 87 individuals received the Foundation Hall of Fame Award, presented during a virtual ceremony August 18. Among them are Mercer County 4-H volunteer Brenda Close, and Rock Island County 4-H volunteer Keith Gorham.
Brenda Close of Reynolds, Ill. has been a dedicated leader of the Hamlet Handy Helpers’ 4-H Club for 11 years. She is known as a volunteer you can rely on and instilled this trait in her children and club members. She has worked hard to make hers a fun family club. Following through with what you say and do is very important to Brenda and something she models. Brenda encourages her club members to try new things and learn all they can about their projects. In this day of technology, Brenda is one to still send hand-written notes of appreciation – another example of how Brenda is a volunteer who always goes the extra mile. (Brenda’s Hall of Fame page @: https://4hfoundation.illinois.edu/content/brenda-close)
A dedicated community member is what describes Keith Gorham of Illinois City, Ill. 4-H has played a significant role in Keith’s life since he was nine-years-old, first as a 4-H member, then continuing as a 4-H father, raising his two children within the program, and now playing a vital role as a volunteer and role model. Keith is the definition of 4-H grown. Keith has volunteered for the past 14-years as a woodworking judge and mentor. Keith is also active in the Rock Island County Fair, ensuring the members have wonderful experiences by planning, facilitating, and assisting with 4-H shows, the Youth Livestock Auction, and other duties. (Keith’s Hall of Fame page @ https://4hfoundation.illinois.edu/content/keith-gorham)