Chambana Sun

Illinois 4-H has certified eight staff members as Level I 4-H Shooting Sports Coordinators. The newly certified coordinators are Ryan Littlejohn from Wayne County, Kelly Brandt from Monroe County, Emily Bruch from Livingston County, Eric Eickmeier from Piatt County, Lynda Sharp-Lower from Tazewell County, Joli Pierson from Mason County, Krista Gray from Fulton County, and Rachel Stenger from Moultrie-Douglas County.

Curt Sinclair, University of Illinois Extension 4-H youth development educator, commented on the achievement: “The dedication of these staff members to their professional growth directly supports the mission of Illinois 4-H to provide high-quality youth programming.” He added that the initiative was successful and that they look forward to offering the certification program to more staff in the fall semester of 2025.

Illinois 4-H is inviting volunteers to participate in the next Level I certification sessions. These sessions will cover Shotgun, Rifle, Pistol, Archery, and Coordinator disciplines. The upcoming sessions are scheduled for March 15 in Kane County, May 10 in Piatt County, and July 19 in Franklin County.

Additionally, Illinois 4-H seeks three to four top-performing Level I-certified volunteers to join the State Instructor Team at Level II. This opportunity includes funding for training on May 5–8, 2025 in Little Rock, Arkansas. Recommendations from county staff are required for consideration.

For more information about the program and upcoming opportunities for certification, individuals can contact their local University of Illinois Extension office.