OREGON, Ill. - As the warmth of summer approaches, the Flagg-Rochelle Public Library, Sauk Valley Community College, and Morrison Community Hospital, along with University of Illinois Extension, are proud to announce a unique educational initiative designed to cultivate healthier lifestyles through the Homegrown Healthy program series. Led by Horticulture Educator Bruce Black, this innovative program integrates weekly topic lessons with hands-on gardening and nutrition components, offering participants a comprehensive exploration of the journey from seed to plate.
Homegrown Healthy is a 10-week series where participants will gather for one hour per week to embark on a transformative journey into the world of horticulture and nutrition. Each session is held either at the Flagg-Rochelle Public Library, Sauk Valley Community College, or Morrison Community Hospital Community Garden. Bruce Black will unveil a new topic, guide practical gardening activities, indulge in tastings of garden-fresh recipes, and impart essential knowledge on storing produce effectively.
The weekly sessions will cover various topics, ranging from seed selection and soil preparation to plant care, harvesting, culinary exploration, and preservation techniques. By immersing participants in every aspect of the gardening process, Homegrown Healthy promises a holistic understanding of sustainable living and a deeper connection to the food we consume.
Individuals and families eager to embark on this transformative journey are invited to register for the whole series of classes. Committing to the entire 10-week program is essential for optimal learning and growth.
Classes will meet rain or shine. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Classes will be held in person at the following locations:
Flagg-Rochelle Public Library, 619 4th Ave, Rochelle, Tuesdays, 10 - 11 am beginning June 3.
Morrison Community Hospital Community Garden, French Creek Park, 618 Portland Ave, Morrison, Thursdays, 5-6 pm beginning May 29.
Sauk Valley Community College Greenhouse, 173 IL Rt 2, Dixon, Wednesdays, 3-4 pm beginning May 28.
Join us as we sow the seeds of health and wellness, one garden at a time. If you need reasonable accommodations to participate, please email Jan Sagiler at jsaglier@illinois.edu or call 815-544-3710. Register online at https://go.illinois.edu/HomegrownHealthy2025.
Funding provided by CDC ACTion Grant.
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.