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Extending Knowledge. Extension Is Here To Help.

Resources and Upcoming Programs

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Belleville office hours

The St. Clair County office is open Wednesday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office is open by appointment only on Mondays and Tuesdays and is closed daily for lunch from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.

For questions or inquiries, please contact us at 217-244-0273 or uie-mms@illinois.edu.

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Join our team

We’re looking for passionate individuals to join our team and make a lasting impact across Illinois. These positions offer the chance to lead programs, build partnerships, and transform lives in your community.

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Become a Master Gardener

Master Gardeners are trained volunteers who dedicate their time and skills to share reliable and research-based information with home landscapers and gardeners. Learn how to get involved.

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Become a Master Naturalist

Volunteer as a Master Naturalist to educate others about natural resources. 

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Get started with EFNEP

The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) supports individuals and families through hands-on nutrition education, practical cooking skills, and ongoing guidance from our local EFNEP team. Build the skills you need for healthier meals and a healthier lifestyle. 
 

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Wellness Wednesday

A monthly series designed to inspire and empower individuals to make healthy choices and support their overall well-being.

Each session covers practical, nutrition-focused topics you can use in everyday life.

Join us for upcoming sessions on topics like food ingredients and healthier holiday eating.

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Eat to Compete

Help your teen athlete learn how the right foods and hydration can support energy, strength, recovery, and performance. Join us for practical, research-based nutrition tips that athletes and parents can use every day.

Register today and learn how to fuel for success! 

Honeycomb filled with golden honey, featuring a honey dipper dripping honey over a banner displaying the text “Honey: More Than Just Sweet!” in the center.

From Hive to Honey: Taste, Learn, Enjoy

Did you know there are more than 300 varieties of honey? Join us for an evening at The Vintage Wine Bar to learn how honey is made, explore different varieties, and discover its nutritional and traditional uses. Enjoy a honey tasting and take home delicious honey-inspired recipes. Come BEE curious and discover just how sweet honey can be! Register by October 21!

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Let's Walk for Wellness

A six-week walking program that will help you connect with others, build confidence, and take meaningful steps towards better health. Explore beautiful local parks in the Waterloo area operated by the Waterloo Park District and Baebler Educational Farm.

Sessions will take place at Lakeview Park, Konarcik Park, and Baebler Educational Farm. There is no cost to attend.

News Releases

2 adults talking
Learn what research says about everyday health challenges
URBANA, Ill. — With health information available at the click of a button, finding trustworthy, evidence-based resources can be challenging. As misinformation continues to spread across digital platforms, access to accurate health guidance is increasingly important. In response, educators,...
A group of participants walking in a pumpkin field.
Local growers get fresh research and production strategies at Pumpkin Field Day
BELLEVILLE, Ill. — Attendees from across the Midwest braved the triple-digit temperatures to attend Pumpkin Field Day. The biannual event welcomed growers, educators, and industry partners for a hands-on pumpkin field day that highlighted the latest research, production strategies, and on‑farm...
two youth standing next to a sheep
New Sunflower Showmanship brings livestock exhibit experience to more youth
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Illinois 4-H was honored to partner with Special Olympics of Illinois - Region H, the Illinois State Fair, and Illinois FFA to expand access to participation in livestock shows during the 2026 Illinois State Fair. In the new Sunflower Showmanship program, Special Olympics...
Carly Whorton presenting at 2025 grocer summit
Illinois Extension hosts second annual Independent Grocer Summit
CARTERVILLE, Ill. — The Southern Illinois Food Access Initiative, a program of Illinois Extension, is hosting the second annual Independent Grocer Summit at John A. Logan College on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026. This annual event pulls together independent grocery store owners...

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings