Local Programs

Empowering Illinois communities through education: Focused on Real-World Problems

Our work focuses on eight strategic priorities. Illinois Extension leaders work with a network of local stakeholders to define annual priorities that allow us to respond to evolving and emerging needs while still ensuring meaningful progress toward key outcomes in each of the eight priority areas. This blend of long-range focus and local accountability is a powerful strategy that ensures we stay true to our mission while we serve communities across the state.

• Community: Support Strong and Resilient Youth, Families, and Communities
• Economy: Grow a Prosperous Economy
• Environment: Sustain Natural Resources in Home and Public Spaces
• Food and agriculture: Maintain a Safe and Accessible Food Supply
• Health: Maximize Physical and Emotional Health for All
• Partnerships: Create and nurture strategic partnerships and share statewide resources to advance our mission and vision.
• Technology and discovery: Integrate research, technology, and engagement to close opportunity gaps and build capacity.
• Workforce Development: Develop Illinois Extension staff and teams to advance collaborative impact and strengthen a culture of access and belonging.

While most Extension programs are offered on an informal, non-credit basis, U of I Extension does offer continuing education credits in some fields of study. Extension programs may be offered as hands-on workshops, field days, online self-paced tutorials, or in other formats that are suitable for the audience and subject matter.