CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL (Chambana Today) — As fair season approaches across Illinois, the Illinois 4-H Alumni Association is seeking alumni and volunteers interested in serving as judges at county and state fairs in 2026.

Organizers say judges play an important role in the 4-H program, providing youth with valuable feedback and recognition for their hard work in a wide range of project areas. Fair judging opportunities help support 4-H’s mission of building life skills through hands-on learning and community engagement.

Those interested in judging are asked to complete a Fair Judge Interest Survey, which helps connect potential judges with local and state University of Illinois Extension staff as needs arise: 2026 4-H Alumni Engagement – Fair Judging Interest. Completing the survey does not serve as a commitment but allows organizers to match experience and interests with available judging opportunities.

The deadline to submit the interest survey is April 1, 2026. Additional information about 4-H project areas is available through the Illinois 4-H Project Guide.