Snapshots

Each year Peoria County 4-H Program Coordinator Kristi Smith takes the YQCA training and “super-sizes” it. “This is one of my favorite programs to plan for our members,” Smith explained. “We have so many local experts who are just as passionate as I am and we all want to help our 4-H members learn more and stay excited for what they can do in the ag industry.”       

Video conferencing may have seen a burst of use during recent years, but its popularity hasn’t waned much. Today, educational, social, and professional opportunities frequently rely on video conferencing software like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meets. Local University of Illinois Extension volunteers received professional development training to develop their skills and confidence using these online tools. 

When people experience barriers such as mobility limitations, sensory and processing disorders, or phobias and overwhelmedness, it can limit their opportunities to engage with nature. With a passion for encouraging everyone to enjoy the outdoors, EMGs knew they could provide the leadership and expertise to offer a different approach to help people connect with nature. Since their first adventure in September 2024, ACORN adventures have happened in the Peoria and Central Illinois region almost every week.