A sunflower is blooming in the bright golden sunshine.

Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact

Like and follow us on Facebook

Announcements and Highlights

Digital Device Collection

Have an old computer, phone, laptop, or tablet collecting dust? Donate it to the Knox County Extension Office and help connect Illinois families with the technology they need.

Mental Health First Aid for Agricultural Communities

Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers face unique challenges that can affect mental health and well-being. Learn to recognize the symptoms and how to help when someone needs support.

Pumpkin Smash

Got pumpkins? Help keep them out of the landfill and have fun doing it.

Information You Can Count On

Community Food Map

Use the Find Food IL map to find places in your community offering free food or meals. You can also find stores and markets that accept SNAP/LINK or WIC coupons.

Reserve CPR Training Kit

Click here to reserve your CPR training kit today and be ready to make a life‑saving difference.

Questions, Answered

Have a tree, plant, or insect mystery on your hands? Submit your question and get reliable, research‑based answers.

Upcoming Events

Beyond the Stigma: Conversations and Care in the Opioid Crisis

November 4, 2026

Open Meetings Act

November 5, 2026

Pumpkin Smash

November 7, 2026

County

McDonough

Birds, Bees, and Solar: Wildlife Interactions with Solar Energy Development

November 10, 2026

More Events

Recent News

Young woman in environmental portrait featuring healthy fruit

November 2, 2026

Policy program creates unexpected path to community and career impact
CHICAGO — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign alumna Elizabeth Gutierrez calls her immersive Illini Science Policy Program experience both exciting and atypical. In 2022, the Illinois Legislative...

October 28, 2026

Illinois Extension expands environmental outreach to meet growing need
URBANA, Ill. — A handful of University of Illinois Extension staffing changes mean four more educators in the northern part of the state are sharing their energy, environment, and natural resources expertise...

A sign welcoming guests to independent grocer summit.

October 15, 2026

Independent Grocer Summit helps local businesses maximize profitability
CARTERVILLE, Ill. — With the rise of big-box stores and rising operational costs, small-town businesses are becoming scarcer. Yet independent grocers play a vital role in local economies, especially within rural communities or food deserts. The second annual Independent Grocer Summit...

A person smashing a pumpkin in an open dumpster used for recycling and composting.

October 14, 2026

Recycle pumpkin season with a smash at Illinois Extension composting events
URBANA, Ill. — Like the changing of the leaves, fall can seem fleeting. Enjoy seasonal vibes — until the porch pumpkins start to decay. When that happens, where do the pumpkins go?“Many do not realize that a thrown-away pumpkin does not break down and disappear on its own without leaving...

October 14, 2026

Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for the 2026-27 hunting season
URBANA, Ill. – A popular program returns for its fifth season to help feed neighbors in need. Hunters Feeding Illinois connects hunters, meat processors, and food pantries to bring lean protein to local residents and families, providing a unique pathway to address and improve food insecurity....

More News Releases