Lifelong Learning. Lifelong Impact.
Put research-based knowledge to work for you.
At home, at work, and in your community — count on Illinois Extension’s reliable and relatable information to help you navigate resilience in all areas of life. We translate research-based discoveries into practical programs that strengthen families and positive youth development, local communities and economies, food and agriculture systems, health and wellness, and environmental resilience.
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Safe Food Preservation
Preserving food can make the most of a big harvest, so you can enjoy homegrown, locally sourced, or seasonal foods year-round. Choose from a variety of safe food preservation methods, and use a tested recipe.
Farm Stress Matters
Farmers and farm families face unique stressors that can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other negative mental health outcomes. Find vouchers for free counseling and other mental health resources for the ag industry.
Summer Food Safety
Keep friends and family safe during hot weather, picnics, and cookouts by following safe food-handling practices. Thaw frozen meat with one of four safe methods, cook to a safe internal temperature, and refrigerate perishable foods within two hours.
Building Healthier Illinois Communities
The Center for Food Systems, Nutrition Security, and Health Integration is a statewide Illinois Extension initiative advancing healthier communities through research, education, and partnership. This new hub connects farmers, organizations, healthcare leaders, and communities with practical solutions, strengthens food systems, improves nutrition security, supports community well-being, and expands access to trusted, research-based resources across Illinois.
4-H’ers Learn By Doing
4-H makes learning fun! Over 70 project areas are offered through 4-H, so members can choose the topics that interest them most. After choosing projects, 4-H members “learn by doing” through hands-on experimentation and practice. One of the most important aspects of 4-H project work is that 4-H members decide what they want to learn and do as they explore their project. This allows each project to be self-paced and gives youth important skills in setting and working toward their goals.
Be sure to stop by the Orr Building at the Illinois State Fair, August 14-16, as 4-H'ers from across the state get to celebrate their projects and showcase their leadership growth!
Recent News
URBANA, Ill. — From a spring full of tornadoes to summers with extreme heat and flooding, Illinois communities are already living through the impacts of climate change. Be part of the solution by turning concern into collective action by taking the Climate…
URBANA, Ill. — Workforce readiness remains a growing concern nationwide. Many young people lack access to opportunities that help them build essential job skills, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. A New Hire Readiness Report 2025 from College Board…
URBANA, Ill. — Beginning July 27, Sarah Doherty will oversee University of Illinois Extension’s statewide business and financial operations. Her new role focuses on responsible stewardship of the resources supporting the staff and volunteer network that delivers programs to more than 831,000…
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