Lifelong Learning, Lifelong Impact

Announcements and Highlights

A garden full of spring blooms.

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.

A brain lifting weights.

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.

A yellow post-it note with the words Henderson County Mitigation Survey.

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

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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.
A globe of the world with the words, "blog, blog,blog,blog" written to the right side of the graphic.

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.

Gloved hands holding a garden shovel surrounded by plants in pots.

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
Recent News
Ignite delegates pose by giant clover.
Illinois 4-H teens build career-ready skills at Ignite by 4-H Summit
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Teen leaders from across Illinois recently joined hundreds of their peers from around the country March 25-29 for the 2026 Ignite by 4-H Summit, a national youth leadership experience focused on career exploration, skill-building and connection.Hosted by National 4-H...
A large lecture room filled with people listening to a gardening presentation.
Community Turns Out for 28th Annual Gardener’s Day in Macomb
Macomb, IL — The 28th Annual Gardener’s Day brought together nearly 100 gardening enthusiasts on March 28, 2026, at the Spoon River College Outreach Center in Macomb. Hosted by University of Illinois Extension and the McDonough County Master Gardeners, the daylong event offered...
The five 4-H youth winners of the public speaking contest.
Local 4-H Youth Advance to State Public Speaking Contest
Galesburg, IL — The University of Illinois Extension is proud to announce that several outstanding 4‑H members from Knox and McDonough counties have advanced to the Illinois 4‑H State Public Speaking Contest, taking place April 25, 2026, at...
Prepare for food preservation season with free pressure canner testing
URBANA, Ill. — As gardeners begin planting seedlings and planning for warmer weather, it’s also time to think about what needs to be preserved. Home preservation methods like canning, freezing, dehydration, and fermentation extend the shelf life of foods compared to storing fruits and vegetables...

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings