Sparta, Ill.— For more than 100 years, University of Illinois Extension has aligned new discoveries with practical solutions that allow Illinois families, farmers, businesses, and community leaders solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities. Local Extension staff who live where they serve address priority needs that provide all residents opportunities to improve their lives.
On July 1, the Randolph County Extension office will move into the Randolph County Farm Bureau building located at 1403 North Hillcrest Drive in Sparta. The new, smaller office space will be staffed part-time, yet residents will have full access to the Extension office at 203 North Walnut, Suite A, in Pinckneyville, expanding their walk-in service from four days a week to five.
"Though our physical office space is smaller, our programs will continue to be offered at facilities throughout the county, including the Randolph County Farm Bureau," says Lynn Heins, Extension county director. "Staff with primary responsibility for Randolph County programs will continue to provide the excellent service they always have. We are excited to be in closer proximity to our Farm Bureau partner."
Randolph County Board of Commissioners Chairman Marc Kiehna supports the move. “We recognize that Extension is doing all they can to provide essential programming by adjusting fixed costs," Kiehna says. "Though their brick-and-mortar location will downsize, Extension will continue to serve our community and residents.”
Extension personnel will continue serving local residents by hosting 4-H programming, volunteer meetings, and community events at the Randolph County Farm Bureau. Extension staff members are also available to meet clients and volunteers by appointment.
University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any of our programs, please contact your local county extension office. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting access needs.
SOURCE: Lynn Heins, county director, heinsl@illinois.edu, (618) 687-1727
WRITER: Heather Willis, marketing and communications coordinator, hdwillis@illinois.edu, (618) 357-2126
ABOUT EXTENSION: 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.