Program Outcomes

IMPACT

Over the past year, Illinois Extension's Local Government Education programs focused on economic investment and community vitality, workforce development, leadership, policy, equity, and resiliency. This education and continued outreach help communities build capacity for innovative and informed decision-making to enhance quality of life for residents.

Visit the archives to see programs on community-driven broadband development, transitioning coal communities, assessing your community's housing needs, integrating equity practices into your organization, community planning and development, and more.

Last year, professionals from across Illinois engaged in 72 statewide educational sessions and workshops, ranging in topics aimed at enhancing leadership, economic development, equity, resiliency, and much more.

Increasing Community Involvement and Leadership

In 2023, about 11,000 professionals gained knowledge on leadership, public service, strategic planning, project management, and community or county engagement.

Creating More Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Communities

Extension helped about 6,500 professionals expand their understanding of how to diversify engagement and meet needs of vulnerable populations.

Enhancing Economic Investments and Financial Stability

As continued federal and state assistance opportunities pushed demand for investment planning and strategies, over 6,000 professionals gained instruction on utilizing opportunities and programs.

Increasing Economic Vitality and Community Resiliency

Resiliency, whether economic or environmental, never mattered more amidst more extreme weather and climate change. About 9,000 professionals joined these conversations to strengthen their communities.