Supporting the mission of the University of Illinois Extension in St. Clair County

University of Illinois Extension empowers individuals and transforms communities through education in St. Clair County. From nurturing young minds through 4-H to fostering sustainability with Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists, we are dedicated to making a lasting impact. But we can't do it without your help.

Illinois Extension's Mission

Illinois Extension's mission is simple yet powerful: to enable people to improve their lives and communities through learning partnerships that put knowledge to work.

Your generous contribution helps us continue this work, reaching more people and directly impacting the lives of local youth, families, farmers, and gardeners, helping them grow and thrive in St. Clair County.

Your contribution allows us to keep providing essential programs like:

4-H Clubs: We are proud to serve 107 youth members in St. Clair County through 4-H clubs. These clubs provide invaluable experiences, from hands-on projects to leadership development that prepares our youth for the future.
Scott Airforce Base Youth Program: Through specialized 4-H clubs, youth participate in hands-on activities like cooking school, developing practical skills and gaining confidence.
Youth Programs: Our reach extends even further, with 1,000+ youth participating in life-skills and leadership programming.
Master Gardeners: Our dedicated Master Gardeners grow and supply fresh produce to local food pantries, ensuring that those in need have access to healthy, fresh food while supporting community health and well-being.
Master Naturalists: Our Master Naturalists work to protect our environment by removing invasive plant species and creating pollinator habitats, ensuring a sustainable future for the county's natural ecosystems.
Horticulture Hotline: Gardening enthusiasts can rely on our expert Horticulture Hotline to answer their questions and concerns, helping them cultivate thriving gardens while promoting sustainable gardening practices.
Research Education & Resources: Our programs support local nurseries, orchards, and farmers, providing research-based education to help them succeed in growing healthy, sustainable crops and maintaining vibrant agricultural practices.
Nutrition Education: Through our nutrition education programs, we teach youth and adults how to cook healthy meals on a budget, the importance of physical activity, and how to maintain a nutritious diet—empowering families to lead healthier lives.

Canva custom creation

2024-25 St. Clair County Extension and Education Foundation Capital Campaign