We are beyond proud to share that Blake Hennenfent has been named the Illinois 4-H Volunteer of the Year and nationally recognized as the 2025 North Central Region Volunteer of the Year! His dedication and passion for 4-H have made a lasting impact on our community and youth.
Blake Hennenfent, a 4th generation 4-H member. Together, the Hennenfent family has accumulated over 335 years of membership in Knox County 4-H—an awe-inspiring testament to their commitment.
Blake’s journey from exhibiting cattle in the Union 4-H Club to founding and coaching the Knox County 4-H Livestock Judging Team is nothing short of extraordinary. Under his leadership since 2016, countless 4-H members have honed their skills, earned scholarships, and competed at the highest levels, including the National Western Stock Show Livestock Judging Contest.
Through Blake’s guidance, 4-H youth have built life-changing connections, developed essential skills in evaluation and communication, and embraced values like humility and hard work. His contributions have truly bettered Knox County 4-H and inspired future generations.
We are incredibly grateful for Blake’s unwavering dedication to 4-H. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! 
#4HVolunteerOfTheYear#KnoxCounty4H#4HStrong#CommunityPride
Here’s to building a brighter future, one 4-H member at a time! 
***Courtesy of the University of Illinois Extension Henderson, Knox, McDonough, & Warren County Facebook Page***
