LA SALLE COUNTY - Matthew Rich of the LaSalle County 4-H Dimmick Braves Club received Diamond level recognition in State 4-H Experience Award applications. Applications were judged on various dimensions including participation, community service, leadership and project learning.

Applicants shared their experiences at both county and state levels. Matthew’s focus was in Leadership experience. The Experience Award offers recognition for members who participate in activities and events. The Bronze, Silver and Gold Clover Award winners receive county recognition. Matthew was recognized at the LaSalle County 4-H Awards Banquet in December.

Diamond and Emerald Clover Award winners are honored at a state awards ceremony. As a recipient of the State 4-H Experience Award, Matthew will be presented with his award at the State 4-H Recognition Awards program in Champaign on March 14.

Matthew participated and led a variety of county level activities, meetings, club projects and community services within his 4-H Club. In addition to club participation, he is an active member of the Microsoft-Tech Change Makers group as well as being a 4-H Federation officer and member of the University of Illinois, LaSalle County Expansion and Review committee.

At the state level, Matthew has been promoted to state fair with many of his projects as well as participating in Illini Summer Camps. His willingness to experience learning opportunities as they are presented to him is in part why he has been recognized for this award.

LaSalle County 4-H is very fortunate to have members who practice continued learning and apply that knowledge to mentor others and help to improve their community.

For more information about 4-H and to enroll in this club, contact the University of Illinois Extension-LaSalle County at (815) 433-0707.