Lifelong Learning. Lifelong Impact.
Put research-based knowledge to work for you.
At home, at work, and in your community — count on Illinois Extension’s reliable and relatable information to help you navigate resilience in all areas of life. We translate research-based discoveries into practical programs that strengthen families and positive youth development, local communities and economies, food and agriculture systems, health and wellness, and environmental resilience.
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Safe Food Preservation
Preserving food can make the most of a big harvest, so you can enjoy homegrown, locally sourced, or seasonal foods year-round. Choose from a variety of safe food preservation methods, and use a tested recipe.
Farm Stress Matters
Farmers and farm families face unique stressors that can contribute to depression, anxiety, and other negative mental health outcomes. Find vouchers for free counseling and other mental health resources for the ag industry.
Summer Food Safety
Keep friends and family safe during hot weather, picnics, and cookouts by following safe food-handling practices. Thaw frozen meat with one of four safe methods, cook to a safe internal temperature, and refrigerate perishable foods within two hours.
Building Healthier Illinois Communities
The Center for Food Systems, Nutrition Security, and Health Integration is a statewide Illinois Extension initiative advancing healthier communities through research, education, and partnership. This new hub connects farmers, organizations, healthcare leaders, and communities with practical solutions, strengthens food systems, improves nutrition security, supports community well-being, and expands access to trusted, research-based resources across Illinois.
4-H’ers Learn By Doing
4-H makes learning fun! Over 70 project areas are offered through 4-H, so members can choose the topics that interest them most. After choosing projects, 4-H members “learn by doing” through hands-on experimentation and practice. One of the most important aspects of 4-H project work is that 4-H members decide what they want to learn and do as they explore their project. This allows each project to be self-paced and gives youth important skills in setting and working toward their goals.
Recent News
URBANA, Ill. — With health information available at the click of a button, finding trustworthy, evidence-based resources can be challenging. As misinformation continues to spread across digital platforms, access to accurate health guidance is increasingly important. In response, educators,…
More than a century ago, the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign welcomed Illinois Extension as a vital partner in its mission to deliver research-backed solutions to the people and industries of…
BELLEVILLE, Ill. — Attendees from across the Midwest braved the triple-digit temperatures to attend Pumpkin Field Day. The biannual event welcomed growers, educators, and industry partners for a hands-on pumpkin field day that highlighted the latest research, production strategies, and on‑farm…
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