Nutrition & Wellness

From food preparation and food safety to nutrition to chronic disease prevention and management, Illinois Extension is committed to helping families across the state and beyond live the best versions of their lives. Learning more about heart-healthy eating, managing diabetes, or how long to keep food, freeze or dry food, and safely store it can lead to healthier living. Contact, Kris Juelfs, nutrition & wellness educator, about upcoming programs, scheduling programs, and any nutrition or food safety-related questions.

Youth Cooking School Schedule 2025 

Youth Cooking School will be available for kids ages 9-14. Join us for fun-filled weeks of activities, learning, and adventure!

Dates & Locations:

  • June 2-5 – Hecker
  • June 9-12 – Edwardsville
  • June 23-26 – Waterloo Annex
  • July 7-10 – Columbia Lutheran

Registration is now open! Click here for registration details. 

 

 

Three girls wearing cooking aprons in a kitchen setting and peeling carrots. There are lime green cutting boards and knives in front of them.

Now enrolling: Youth Cooking School

Calling all young chefs ages 9-14! Register now for a fun-filled culinary adventure packed with hands-on cooking, exciting activities, and delicious creations. Don’t miss out—spots are filling fast!
A display of diabetes tool which include test strips, needles, and a monitor.

Diabetes Support Group

Are you or someone you care about living with diabetes, or at risk for developing diabetes or other chronic illnesses? Nutrition and Wellness Educator, Kris Juelfs, with University of Illinois Extension, will exchange practical tips and advice with peers who are navigating the challenges of living with diabetes. 

There will be no sessions in June and July. We will continue with the next session on August 14 with discussing Mediterranean diet basics.

Call or email to reserve a spot at 618-939-6232 or mtl@waterloolibrary.org. 
A display of fruits and vegetables, and a book on a table.

Recipes for diabetes

Fun and nutritious recipes to help you manage your health
A display fruits and vegetables. There is a person giving another person an apple.

Selling homemade food at the farmer's market

Learn basic guidelines that growers and vendors must observe in preparation for farmers market sales. 
A display of food jars.

How to freeze, can, and dry food for preservation

Learn how to safely preserve and store your fresh fruits and vegetables.
A woman and a man feeding their baby.

Feeding my baby: from cradle to table

Feeding my baby is designed to help you make informed decisions as your baby transitions from cradle to table.