Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact

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Announcements and Highlights

26th Annual Gardener's Day

Get ready to dig into inspiration at Gardener’s Day! This special event will bring together gardening enthusiasts of all levels to enjoy engaging speakers, hands-on activities, and plenty of opportunities to learn new tips and techniques for your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting out, Gardener’s Day offers something for everyone.

Wits Fitness

Feeling a little foggy lately? You're not alone—and there’s something you can do about it. Join University of Illinois Educator Tessa Hobbs-Curley for a fun, interactive session designed to clear the mental cobwebs.

Henderson County Mitigation Plan Survey

“What matters most to you when disaster strikes? Henderson County planners need your input. Share your priorities in this quick 5‑minute survey and help guide our mitigation efforts.”

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.

Insights from the Field: Read Our Educator Blogs

Curious about what’s growing in our gardens, changing in our communities, or trending in youth development? Our educators share their expertise, stories, and practical tips through regularly updated blogs.

Your Toughest Questions, Answered

Have a question on a plant, tree, or insect? Our horticulture experts will share their advice and solutions to your toughest problems.

Upcoming Events

Stand Up 4 Grain Safety Week Kickoff Event

March 30, 2026

I'll Go with You: Supporting Youth Through Trauma and Into Trauma-Focused Treatments

April 1, 2026

Growing a Butterfly Garden: Illinois Butterflies and Their Host Plants

April 7, 2026

Succession Through Shared Ownership: Exploring ESOPs and Employee-Led Transitions

April 7, 2026

More Events

Recent News

March 30, 2026

Find solutions to manage non-native plants and animals at Invasive Species Symposium
URBANA, Ill. — From new invasive species threats to updates on how to manage them, the world of invasive species is always changing. Learn about emerging invasives, explore management options, share ideas,...

March 30, 2026

New webinar series supports adults in strengthening long-term health
URBANA, Ill. — Millions of adults in the United States live with chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and hypertension, often facing daily challenges that affect their health, mobility, and overall quality of life. Managing these conditions requires reliable information, practical...

A burned plot in a forest in late winter

March 26, 2026

Frequent prescribed burns help young oaks thrive despite invasive grasses, Illinois study finds
URBANA, Ill. — As winter comes to a close, many people look forward to warmer temperatures and spring blooms, but for land managers working to preserve or restore oak-dominated forests, it is prescribed burn...

A team of youth analyzing a plant and using a book to research crop facts

March 23, 2026

Youth can strengthen crop scouting skills at statewide Illinois Extension competition
URBANA, Ill. — There is no better way to check in on a crop field than to take a walk down a row. Youth looking to strengthen their agronomy skills or share what they already know can do so while competing with a team at the...

Teens work at tables during a Teen Teacher training.

March 23, 2026

Teens step up to lead: Illinois 4-H ready to expand Teen Teachers Program to prepare youth for the future
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H is expanding its nationally recognized Teen Teachers program through a competitive grant opportunity from National 4-H Council and Lilly Endowment Inc., positioning young people across the state to be beyond ready for college, careers and community leadership....

More News Releases

Local Programs We Offer

4-H Youth Development