(MILAN, Ill) Illinois Extension is proud to unveil its Winter-Spring Program Guide, featuring a diverse lineup of programs, workshops, and events designed to inspire learning, wellness, and community connection. From gardening and tree care to tai chi and wellness, this season offers opportunities for individuals of all ages to grow their knowledge and skills.
Community members can download the Winter-Spring Program Guide or register directly for programs online.
Program Highlights
- 8 Dimensions of Wellness Wednesdays in January: Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28 | 1–3 PM | Moline Start the year with intention! Explore two dimensions of wellness each week—Physical & Spiritual; Environmental & Emotional; Intellectual & Vocational; and Social & Financial. Sessions include a self-assessment tool, refreshments, and a wellness gift. Held at the Butterworth Education Center/Carriage House.
- Community Tree Care Webinar Series Jan. 13–Feb. 17 | Fridays, 9–11 AM | Online Six expert-led sessions cover pollinators, forest health, soils, pruning, climate impacts, and more. Perfect for arborists, professionals, homeowners, and volunteers.
- Botanical Make & Take Series Thurs. Jan. 22, Feb. 12, March 26 | 1–3 PM | Milan Join Horticulture Educator Emily Swhihart for hands-on workshops. Create floral arrangements, propagate houseplants, and start seeds—while taking home your projects.
- Tai Chi for Arthritis & Fall Prevention Mon & Wed, Feb. 2–Mar. 30 | 2–3 PM | Milan This 16-session, evidence-based program recognized by the CDC improves strength, flexibility, and balance. Gentle movements support arthritis management and reduce fall risk.
- Lessons for Living Webinar Series Feb. 10, May 14, June 9 | 10 AM | Online Free, one-hour sessions designed to empower adults with practical guidance. Topics include:
- February: What’s in My Food: Decoding Chemicals and Safety
- April: Gardening on a Budget
- May: Fur Real Companionship
- Nursery School: Lessons in Gardening Sat, Feb. 21 | 8 AM–3 PM | Vibrant Arena, Moline A full day of inspiration with Extension educators, Master Gardeners, and local experts. Enjoy keynotes, breakout sessions, gardening vendors, and complimentary coffee, morning rolls, and lunch. Save with early bird registration!
- Spring Series of Home Horticulture Mondays, April 13, 20, 27 | 6–8 PM | Rock Island Evening sessions explore hot topics in gardening, landscaping, and wellness. Includes light appetizers and expert-led discussions on soil health, beneficial insects, and more.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 700 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through six program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, family and consumer science, integrated health disparities, and natural resources, environment, and energy.