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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 Wednesday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office is closed 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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Monroe County Outdoor Explorers

Join us for a guided evening moderate hike to explore geology. This program is designed for youth and adults of all ages.


 

A smiling woman in workout clothing holds a green dumbbell while surrounded by fresh fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, and other healthy foods.

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 protein, 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 13!

Events

News Releases

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...
A brown bat in a knot hole in a tree
Illinois study reveals another reason to save the world’s trees
All over the world, from Oregon’s old-growth forests to Queensland’s eucalyptus groves, creatures depend on trees for shelter. A new analysis from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign suggests that as the climate destabilizes, the world’s...
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Young Nature Enthusiasts Can Discover the Outdoors with Bond County 4-H
Bond County 4-H invites young nature lovers to explore the outdoors this fall through the Junior Master Naturalist Program.Starting Tuesday, September 29, youth will learn about Illinois' natural world through hands-on activities and outdoor experiences. Participants will join portions of...

Check out Illinois Extension’s complete offerings