News Releases

Virtual 4-H shows build alumni relationships
DECATUR, Ill.— Traditional in-person 4-H shows will not be taking place this summer, but 4-H members still have an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge learned in project areas. County shows have transitioned to a virtual format for this year which allows 4-H alumni from across the United...
Reduce your risk of diabetes with proper nutrition
URBANA, Ill. – More than one in three adults have prediabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control, and many don’t know it. People with prediabetes have higher than normal blood glucose levels, which raise the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as type 2 diabetes. ...
Master Naturalist training begins September 1
DECATUR, Ill. – Do you feel a connection to nature? Are you passionate about the environment? Why not use your skills and talents for the Master Naturalist Program through University of Illinois Extension. The Master Naturalist training program begins this fall and educates adult volunteers to...
Illinois Master Gardeners announce new volunteer website
URBANA, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners donated 189,392 hours across the state in 2019, answering questions, leading programs, and volunteering at community garden projects. These 2,719 garden enthusiasts of all ages volunteer at local Illinois Extension offices to...
COVID-19 expense relief available for local governments
URBANA, Ill. - The Local Coronavirus Urgent Remediation Emergency Support Program, CURE, is federally funded through the Coronavirus Relief Fund and reimburses local governments for costs specifically related to the COVID-19 public health emergency incurred since March 1, not previously budgeted...
Learn safe food handling, prep methods
URBANA, Ill. - Approximately one in six Americans gets a foodborne illness each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Foodborne illnesses are not a minor inconvenience. In fact, the CDC estimates...
Uncovering the financial nightmare of COVID-19
URBANA, Ill. - As COVID-19 continues to burden systems around the world, the economic shock and effects of business closures, unemployment, unrealized tax collections, and Medicaid expenditures are being analyzed. A webinar co-sponsored by the University of Illinois Institute of Government...
Governments look for ways to help small businesses
URBANA, Ill. - Community leaders across Illinois are working hard to adopt and overcome challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new survey conducted by University of Illinois Extension. Town, city, and county...
Virtual STEAM career exploration for middle schoolers
PEKIN, Ill - This summer, middle school students can explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) careers during “Meet a STEAM Professional.” This program, offered by University of Illinois Extension and 4-H, will allow young people to get a behind-the-scenes look at STEAM...
Rural Resilience virtual course gives farmers tools to manage stress
URBANA, Ill. – Farm life is stressful. Rural communities face unique mental health risks, but it can be hard to talk about it. “I’ve heard stories of farmers who would drive three hours to a mental health seminar; not because there wasn’t one closer,” says...
Project learning never stops in 4-H
The Illinois 4-H youth development program empowers and prepares youth for success by providing opportunities for youth to learn, practice, and demonstrate skills needed for home, career, and global citizenship. Youth, organized in clubs,...
6 tips for watering container gardens
URBANA, Ill. – Every garden needs water, but with a container garden’s limited soil volume, proper watering is crucial for plants to stay productive. “Proper drainage is just as important as the amount of water added to the container,” says Andrew Holsinger,...
Tune in to Illinois Extension podcasts
URBANA, Ill. – On the go or at home, University of Illinois Extension podcasts entertain and inform listeners about topics that matter. While in-person educational programs are currently canceled or postponed until after July 31 due to...