About

Illinois Extension leaders work with a network of local stakeholders to define annual goals that allow us to respond to evolving and emerging needs while still ensuring meaningful progress toward key outcomes in each of the strategic priority areas: Community, Economy, Environment, Food and Agriculture, Health, Partnerships, Technology and Discovery and Workforce Excellence. This blend of long-range focus and local accountability is a powerful strategy that ensures we stay true to our mission while we serve communities across the state.

While most Extension programs are offered on an informal, non-credit basis, Illinois Extension does offer continuing education credits in some fields of study. Extension programs may be offered as hands-on workshops, field days, online self-paced tutorials, or in other formats that are suitable for the audience and subject matter.

The mission of Illinois Extension is to serve the residents of Illinois as we work collaboratively to enhance quality of life for families and economic resilience and vitality for our businesses and communities. This work isn't possible without an army of passionate, dedicated volunteers who generously give of their time and talent. From developing curriculum units to working with kids on 4-H projects, and from mentoring families on personal finances to identifying pesky weeds, volunteers play an essential role within Extension.