Illinois Extension building a strong and connected community
As we move forward in 2024, let our hands continue to sow the seeds of knowledge and our hearts beat in unison, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness. Together, we'll continue to shape a future where individuals and families in Carroll, Lee, and Whiteside Counties thrive.
Announcements and Highlights
![illustration of fingerprint and molecules](https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/styles/cards_image/public/paragraphs/cards/forensic%20image.png.jpg?itok=344yWxlN)
Summer Youth Programs
Learn, do and have fun this summer! Youth program topics include forensic science, nature exploration, sewing, gardening, cooking, dance and animal care workshops. Check back for new classes as the summer progresses.
![cucumbers and tomatoes growing](https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/styles/cards_image/public/paragraphs/cards/garden%20image.jpg?itok=AFXkg-UR)
Gardeners Corner
Get advice and inspiration to make your garden, landscape or houseplants shine in any season. Subscribe to Gardeners Corner, a quarterly newsletter from the Illinois Extension team of horticulture experts.
![Women holding a display on fall planting](https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/styles/cards_image/public/paragraphs/cards/MG%20Lee.jpg?itok=4-gOuaiw)
Illinois Extension at the Dixon City Market
Join Illinois Extension staff at the Dixon City Market each Wednesday evening this summer to learn something new, explore useful resources, or do a kid’s activity.
![girl showing a rabbit at 4-H Show](https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/styles/cards_image/public/paragraphs/cards/Whiteside%202023.jpg?itok=a-m__icb)
2024 4-H Shows
Come see the amazing work of 4-H youth at the Carroll, Lee and Whiteside 4-H Shows! The public is welcome. See animals and creative displays in many subject areas, including art, horticulture, foods, science and much more!
![illustration of chefs hat and grilling tools](https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/styles/cards_image/public/paragraphs/cards/BBQ%20icon.png.jpg?itok=Mj3YsDu0)
Whiteside 4-H Federation Pork Chop BBQ
Join us for a fresh-grilled BBQ meal and help support the work 4-H Federation does in our communities. Order your meals today (payment by credit card) with the link below. Pre-sales continue through July 7.
![](https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/styles/cards_image/public/paragraphs/cards/brain%20crop_0.jpg?itok=eu3t0s_k)
Wits Fitness Brain Health
Enjoy fun, interactive activities crafted to stimulate the brain and enhance cognitive function and memory for adults of all ages. Classes are held at locations throughout Carroll, Lee and Whiteside Counties.
![brown show dog on a leash](/sites/default/files/styles/450_x_253/public/2024-05/show%20dog.jpg?itok=9flEnU9g)
![grouping of three chickens](/sites/default/files/styles/450_x_253/public/2024-06/Facebook%20Event%20and%20Website%20Event%20Pictures%20%2818%29.png?itok=pYXDgO1_)
![Squiggle lines going through a brain](/sites/default/files/styles/450_x_253/public/2023-12/_FB%20%20Event%20Wits%20Fitness%20%282%29.png?itok=4JxkieDC)