CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension and the Champaign Parks District are throwing open the doors to the Martens Center, Champaign's newest community hub, for a free event designed to connect residents with a wealth of resources and celebrate a sense of belonging. The event will occur on Saturday, May 11th, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Many community members have heard of Extension, but this event aims to showcase its programs and services. It's also a chance to welcome everyone to the Martens Center, a hidden gem on the North end boasting a commercial kitchen, full gym, indoor track, garden area, and multiple play areas for children – all with free and reduced-price memberships available. It’s located at 1515 N Market St., Champaign, IL 61821.

Extension Day will feature booths from all eight Extension program areas: 4-H, Family Life, Finances, Nutrition and Wellness, SNAP-Ed, EFNEP, the Master Gardeners, and the Master Naturalists. It will also feature booths from community partners such as the Champaign Parks District, the Housing Authority of Champaign County, the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission, OSF Healthcare, and the Trauma and Resilience Initiative.

But it's not all learning! The event promises a fun-filled day for the whole family with engaging activities and crafts. The first 120 guests can enjoy free Kona Ice, while cotton candy keeps everyone sweet. Foodies can watch free cooking demonstrations at 1:15 and 2:15 pm (limited to 12 participants each) or relax and let the kids bounce in the inflatables.

University of Illinois Extension Day promises a day of discovery, connection, and family fun. Mark your calendars and head to the Martens Center for this free event celebrating the best-kept secret in town and the vibrant Champaign community.

To learn more about Illinois Extension visit go.illinois.edu/CFIV or call 217-333-7672. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact Tracy Bowden at tbowden@illinois.edu or call our office.

Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities. Illinois Extension is part of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.