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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 now open Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office 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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Webinar series

Learn about Illinois’ Open Meetings Act (OMA) and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), including recent updates and practical tools to implement policies at the local level and avoid violations. 

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

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Diabetes Support Group

Join us for sessions with Food and Nutrition Educator and registered Dietitian Kris Juelfs to learn diabetes management skills. Whether you’re managing diabetes, supporting a loved one, or looking to learn more, this group offers a welcoming space to connect, learn, and grow. 

Sessions are held each month on the second Thursday with a new topic to help you manage your health and feel empowered in your daily life. 

News Releases

A sign welcoming guests to independent grocer summit.
Independent Grocer Summit helps local businesses maximize profitability
CARTERVILLE, Ill. — With the rise of big-box stores and rising operational costs, small-town businesses are becoming scarcer. Yet independent grocers play a vital role in local economies, especially within rural communities or food deserts. The second annual Independent Grocer Summit...
A person smashing a pumpkin in an open dumpster used for recycling and composting.
Recycle pumpkin season with a smash at Illinois Extension composting events
URBANA, Ill. — Like the changing of the leaves, fall can seem fleeting. Enjoy seasonal vibes — until the porch pumpkins start to decay. When that happens, where do the pumpkins go?“Many do not realize that a thrown-away pumpkin does not break down and disappear on its own without leaving...
A buck standing in a field
Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for the 2026-27 hunting season
URBANA, Ill. – A popular program returns for its fifth season to help feed neighbors in need. Hunters Feeding Illinois connects hunters, meat processors, and food pantries to bring lean protein to local residents and families, providing a unique pathway to address and improve food insecurity....
three 4-H members aiming air rifles at targets
Illinois 4-H'ers excel in 2026 state shooting sports competitions
URBANA, Ill. — A total of 167 Illinois 4-H youth recently showcased their marksmanship skills in statewide competitions across the shooting sports disciplines of rifle, archery, pistol, and shotgun. These events serve as culminating experiences where participants can measure the progress they...

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings