See the impact Extension had in our community
A Message From Our County Director
This past year, Illinois Extension programs in our county continued to focus on what matters most—supporting healthy people, caring for our natural resources, and strengthening our cities, towns, and rural communities through practical, research-based education.
From youth development through 4-H and outdoor learning to hands-on programs centered on food, nutrition, and wellness, Extension ignited curiosity and equipped residents of all ages with skills to thrive. Participants jumped into experiences that brought learning off the page and into real life—discovering the world of pollinators, mastering food preservation, boosting brain health, and exploring the ecosystems in their own backyards. Whether trekking through parks, digging into garden beds, or collaborating with community partners, people gained practical know-how, built confidence, and forged vibrant connections that strengthened our entire
region.
These stories reflect our commitment to cultivating knowledge that supports lifelong learning, environmental stewardship, and overall well-being. We are grateful to our volunteers, partners, and participants who make this work possible and help ensure Extension remains a trusted resource for our county.
Ginger Boas
County Director
This year's impact report features...
University of Illinois Holiday Food Drive Comes to a Successful End
Residents of Champaign County came together to support their community in the holiday season through the Holiday Food Drive. Hundreds of pounds of shelf-stable foods were donated in the month of November. The SNAP-Ed team gathered all collected items, and donated them to several food pantries and families within Champaign County the week of Thanksgiving.
Connecting Families Through Canning
Local residents gathered at the Illinois Nutrition Education Program office for a hands-on canning workshop led by Illinois Extension Nutrition and Wellness Educator and Registered Dietitian Rachel Mannen. The class offered participants a valuable opportunity to learn the art of preserving their harvests through the time-honored tradition of canning.
Master Naturalists continue work restoring historic Sibley Burr Oak Grove
Master Naturalists cultivate a deep appreciation and respect for the natural world, fostering a sense of belonging within it. Through education, conservation, and outreach, they become engaged stewards of their local environments, working to protect the natural resources where we live to ensure our world is fit for the future.
Night Pollinator Walk invites community to discover Busey Woods after dark
Extension educators invited the community to a Night Pollinator Walk where attendants could discover Busey Woods after dark. This event was one of several offered by Extension during National Pollinator Week and Pollinator Quest, and offered a unique opportunity to witness night pollinators at work in their natural element.
See What We've Done
Read all about the projects that Illinois Extension has been working on this year
See What We'll Do Next
See all of the wonderful events that Illinois Extension has planned in our community
See Who We Are
Meet the wonderful Illinois Extension staff that are working to make an impact in our community