The Foundation was organized in December 1961, as the Macon County Agricultural 4-H Foundation. As its first president, William W. Loveless played a crucial role in helping establish the foundation.  The Macon County Agricultural 4-H Foundation was the first 4-H foundation within the state of Illinois.  The purpose was to gain closer relationships between 4-H individuals and friends of 4-H organizations in Macon County.

The 25th Anniversary was celebrated in 1986. Stu Ellis was President. The 40th Anniversary was celebrated in 2002. Lynn Hiser was President.

In 2002, the Foundation voted to do business as the Macon County 4-H Foundation. In 2009, the Foundation voted to become the Macon County 4-H and Extension Foundation. The Foundation’s purpose has been expanded to promote and assist 4-H and University of Illinois Extension programs for Macon County, Illinois, including but not limited to Agriculture, Food and Nutrition, Horticulture and Master Gardeners, and Family and Consumer Education.

While keeping the focus on 4-H is still prominent, the change in name and purpose will allow the Foundation to provide greater support to University of Illinois Extension programs of Macon County.