This year, 38 clubs from across the state were selected for outstanding achievements in topic areas including agriculture, environment/natural resources, personal development, and food, nutrition and health. Clubs also planned and conducted superior activities in the community involvement and home and family categories.

Four 4-H Alumni Award winners were also selected this year, based on success in their careers and community involvement. Award winners included David Chicoine, University of Illinois vice president; Philip Francis, CEO of PETsMART; Judith Hevrdejs, journalist for the Tempo Section of the Chicago Tribune; and Douglas Wilson, artist and interior designer for the cable television show "Trading Spaces."

Opal Minteer, of Andalusia in Rock Island County, was recognized for serving 51 years as a 4-H volunteer. For the past 38 years, she has volunteered with a unique 4-H program for youth with mental or physical disabilities.

The 2001 Friend of Illinois 4-H award was presented to First Lady of Illinois Lura Lynn Ryan for her support as honorary chair of the 4-H CAN Make a Difference Food Drive. Under Ryan’s direction, 4-H members, leaders and volunteers collected more than 150 tons of food items to distribute to food banks and shelters across the state.

The Illinois State Fair and Illinois Attorney General Jim Ryan were named 4-H Partners. For more than 70 years, the Illinois State Fair has provided support to youth development activities through 4-H. State Fair has provided financial support to expand programs and remodel 4-H buildings at the fair, and works with 4-H staff to provide a safe, educational experience for the growing number of animal exhibitors.

Attorney General Ryan presented 4-H with a financial award to expand the 4-H Legislative Ambassador program from 25 to more than 34,100 youth. Teams of 4-H youth and adults were established in nearly every Illinois legislative district to increase their knowledge of state government. The ambassadors also work through community groups to identify local needs and develop community action initiatives in response.