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Lifelong Learning. Lifelong Impact.

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Highlights

Recipe for Connection

Life gets busy! Between work, school, sports, and activities, it can feel like everyone is going in a different direction. Yet some of the best family conversations and memories happen around the dinner table. Research shows that regular family meals can help strengthen relationships, support well-being, and contribute to positive outcomes for children and teens.
Join us for Recipe for Connection and discover how a simple meal can bring families closer together.

Lifelong Learning, Lifelong impact with this year's annual report

Our Annual Impact Report has just been published! For over 100 years, Illinois Extension has been woven into the fabric of our communities. Our 2025 report showcases the stories and people behind that great work. Explore the impact made by Illinois Extension in Livingston, McLean, and Woodford Counties.

See the Talent. Feel the Tradition with our Tri-County 4-H Shows this Summer!

Join us this summer at the 4-H shows and see the hard work, dedication, and talent of our local youth on display. From livestock and projects to leadership and life skills, our 4-H members have spent countless hours preparing for show season. Come cheer them on, support the next generation of leaders, and enjoy a great community tradition filled with learning, fun, and hometown pride. We can’t wait to see you at the fairgrounds this summer! Click here for more information!

Resources

Help Desk

Contact our Master Gardener help desks via virtual form and we will answer your questions at no cost.

Eat.Move.Save.

Find foods that taste great and are easy to prepare, fun activities, and shopping tips to keep more money in your pocket.

farmdoc

Discover news, resources, policy, and insight for managing and operating your farm.

Events

McLean County 4-H Show

July 29, 2026 - August 2, 2026

County

McLean

Inside Trauma-Focused Therapy for Youth: Understanding Treatment and Support

July 29, 2026

Garden Textures Through the Camera Lens: Photography in Sarah's Garden

July 30, 2026

County

McLean

Unity Garden Vegetable Production, Cover Crops, and Fresh Ginger Showcase

July 30, 2026

County

McLean

More Events

News Releases

June 10, 2026

New webinar series empowers Illinois communities with trusted health expertise
URBANA, Ill. — Current technology puts health information at our fingertips, but not all of it is reliable. As misleading content spreads quickly online, communities need clear, science‑based guidance more than ever. That’s why educators, researchers, and community partners are collaborating to...

Aerial view of the judging arena filled with youth and animals.

May 1, 2026

Livestock contest participation grows 38% as youth sharpen decision-making, communication, and leadership skills
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H members demonstrated their livestock evaluation skills during the 2026 State Livestock Judging Contest held April 27 on the University of Illinois campus. A total of 250 youth participated in the event, representing a 38% increase in participation...

April 22, 2026

Illinois 4-H youth showcase equine expertise in statewide contests
URBANA, Ill. — Illinois 4-H youth from across the state demonstrated their knowledge, communication skills, and passion for the equine industry during the 2026 State 4-H Horse Bowl, Hippology, and Horse Speaking contests, held April 13 on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. These...

Delegates pose in green tees by a giant clover.

April 22, 2026

Illinois 4-H members bring youth voice to federal leaders in Washington D.C.
WASHINGTON D.C. — Illinois 4-H youth joined delegates from across the country for the 2026 National 4-H Conference, held April 10-15, where they engaged in roundtable discussions and presented directly to federal partner agencies. Bringing hundreds of 4-H’ers to the nation’...

People at a table talk to others a sign in the background says "Lake Michigan"

April 3, 2026

Illinois Extension and 4-H showcase statewide impact at inaugural Day at the Capitol
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — University of Illinois Extension staff gathered in the state Capitol on March 25 to showcase how Extension and Illinois 4-H strengthen communities statewide and to call for an increased...

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