University of Illinois Extension responds to rising food access needs
URBANA, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension is responding to increased demand for food assistance amid the ongoing government shutdown and SNAP benefit disruptions. Publicly available resources are being shared by Extension to help Illinois...
Recycle pumpkins with a smash at Illinois Extension fall community composting events
URBANA, Ill. — Whether picking out pumpkins from a field or carving fun faces for jack-o'-lanterns with friends, pumpkins naturally give off fall vibes. But what happens when they start to decay on the porch or countertop, and it’s time to say goodbye? Where do they go? Many think...
Youth handlers shine at 2025 4-H state dog show
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — The 2025 Illinois 4-H Dog Show was held on Oct. 4 at the Interstate Center in Bloomington. Sixty-six 4-H members represented their home counties across Illinois in 118 individual runs made in partnership with their canine companion. Members who received a qualifying score at...
Simmer up to soup at our upcoming diabetes clinic
EUREKA, Ill. — A bowl of homemade soup on a cold winter day can be a comforting meal. Join Nutrition and Wellness Educator and Registered Dietitian Jenna Smith to learn the many types of soup and ways to make them healthy and flavorful. You'll receive a packet of recipes and taste a hearty bowl...
Youth sharpen their skills at 2025 Illinois 4-H shooting sports state competitions
Jacksonville, IL — The 2025 Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports State Competitions wrapped up this September, bringing together top youth marksmen from across the state in a series of events that showcased precision, skill, and sportsmanship. Held annually in late August and throughout September, the...
Hunters Feeding Illinois returns
URBANA, Ill. — Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for its fourth season, in partnership with Feeding Illinois, Access Illinois Outdoors, ...
McLean County Master Gardener recognized at state conference
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The University of Illinois Extension proudly congratulates McLean County Master Gardener Cheryl West of Arrowsmith on receiving a prestigious state award from the Illinois Master Gardener program. Cheryl was honored for her outstanding contributions during the Illinois Master...
Hunters Feeding Illinois returns
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for its fourth season, in partnership with Feeding Illinois, Access Illinois Outdoors, ...
Celebrate food safety month by exploring Extension resources
URBANA, Ill. — September marks National Food Safety Education Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of safe food handling practices across all food system sectors, from farm to table. Whether people grow, process, sell, donate, or consume food, everyone has a role in reducing...
Learn about metabolic syndrome at Diabetes Clinic
EUREKA, Ill. — Discover how to take control of your health as we focus on metabolic syndrome. Join Nutrition and Wellness Educator and Registered Dietitian, Jenna Smith, as we define what metabolic syndrome is, explore its causes and risk factors, and discuss effective treatment and prevention...
Superior Young Dairy Producer Award marks 30 Years of scholarships
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The 2025 Superior Young Dairy Producer Award (SYDPA) program was held Aug. 16 at the Illinois State Fair. Twelve 4-H dairy project members from across Illinois competed in the event, which promotes youth development, career preparation, and personal growth through increased...
Demystifying the Generational Gap
CARLOCK, Ill. – Today’s families, workplaces, and communities often include multiple generations working and living side by side. Each generation brings unique strengths, values, and perspectives shaped by their life experiences. While these differences can enrich our...
Explore ‘Happy Hacks’ with Illinois Extension
Carlock, Ill. – Our lives are bombarded with negativity, stress, and countless threats to our emotional well-being, work, and closest relationships. New research in neuroscience and positive psychology shows that when we experience happiness and positivity, it activates the brain’s learning...
Join in on ginger: Attend a ginger rhizome production field day at local farms
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Illinois specialty growers can diversify their crop offerings and expand their businesses through the cultivation of fresh ginger. Fresh (i.e., baby) ginger is a premium product, often retailing up to $20-25/lb. Ginger is harvested towards the end of the growing season,...
