News Releases

Read the latest personal finance news from Illinois Extension.

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Opportunity to learn practical money management strategies
URBANA, Ill. — Navigating financial management can often seem overwhelming and intimidating, particularly for those uncertain about how to begin. Studies have shown that financial stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, having access to practical...
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Illinois Extension and local libraries partner for Lessons at the Library
RANTOUL AND CISSNA PARK, Ill – University of Illinois Extension is excited to bring its popular Lessons for Living series to local libraries. Lessons for Living is a free in-person series where people can learn valuable life lessons and get relevant, easy-to-understand tips for living an...
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Students learn career and financial skills with Illinois Extension and 4-H
GILMAN, Ill. — Nearly 200 students from Central, Donovan, Milford, Iroquois West, and Watseka high schools met at Iroquois West High School on September 20, 2023, for a Welcome to the Real World Simulation. The simulation is the culminating event of the Welcome to the Real World...
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Money management strategies to help young adults achieve financial wellness
College can be an exciting time of self-discovery and growth, but it's also a time to face new financial challenges that produce anxiety and stress. To manage this, it's best to start early to build good financial habits that will ensure a solid future, learn how to make the most of financial...
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Take proactive steps to improve overall economic well-being
URBANA, Ill. – In these times, many people feel overwhelmed by financial worries and feel uncomfortable talking about it. Whatever the circumstances, there are ways to get through these tough economic times, relieve stress and anxiety and regain control of finances. Gain the financial...
Drawn picture of a piggy bank. "Pop Up Money Mentors"
Money Mentors hosting pop up mentoring
Do you need help with your personal finances? Do you have a question about your credit report or credit score? Illinois Extension Money Mentor volunteers are here to help! On the second Tuesday of each month, Money Mentors...
Person holding a knife and fork up to an empty plate.
Addressing food insecurity and its impact on health
URBANA, Ill. – Hunger is a condition in which people do not get enough food to provide the necessary nutrients to lead active and productive lives. Food insecurity, on the other hand, refers to economic and social conditions that limit access to safe and nutritious food in sufficient quantities...
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Tips for entering the cottage food business
URBANA, Ill. — Last year, the Home-to-Market Act, a set of legislative updates to the Cottage Food Law, came into effect in Illinois. Before this legislation passed, food operators could only sell homemade foods...
bowl of healthy fruit
Improve well-being, health with 5 life lessons
URBANA, Ill. – Continued learning through all stages of life helps us to thrive physically, mentally, and financially. No matter your age, learn valuable life lessons in five monthly workshops which continue a tradition of supporting Illinois residents and communities with relevant and easy-to-...
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Build money management skills early for a solid financial future
URBANA, Ill. — Building positive money habits early in life paves the way for long-term financial stability, but navigating topics such as spending, saving, investing, and managing debt can feel overwhelming, especially for young adults who are tackling financial responsibilities for the first...
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Talking about money doesn't have to be stressful
  URBANA, Ill. – Many households experience stress and anxiety about their personal finances. These intense feelings of uneasiness and discontent can lead to misinformation and negative money behaviors. University of Illinois Extension is providing a series of six free online...
Uncover dimensions of wellness that enhance health, wealth, happiness
URBANA, Ill. – Personal wellness is more than just diet and exercise. Wellness is multi-dimensional, encompassing eight dimensions: physical, financial, emotional, social, spiritual, environmental, vocational, and intellectual. "These eight dimensions work in harmony to help you achieve...
Extension’s strategic realignment means more help for Illinois families
URBANA, Ill. – Throughout history, families have grappled with how to manage chronic health conditions, eat well, balance a family budget, and create a stable beginning for their youngest family members. But modern families are faced with a new set of challenges layered on top of the long-...