University of Illinois Extension has been helping the citizens of McLean County put knowledge to work for more than 85 years. Thousands of McLean County residents participate in our research-based educational programming every year to enable them to make practical decisions to improve their quality of life in diverse and ever-changing communities.

Like a tree, Extension has deep roots into the community and university research. The branches represent the diverse programs and audiences served as a result of strong community roots. The strength of the Extension tree makes it an enduring educational resource for all citizens.

Last Year in McLean County

• 2,324 students expanded their understanding of the global impact of American agriculture through Extension-sponsored school programs.

• 350 area high school juniors and seniors experienced hands-on career exploration and awareness in a day-long visit with 125 business professionals.

• Leadership training provided to faculty and staff of seven school districts in character education principles impacted more than 4,000 McLean County students.

Jr. Chefs

• Through a series of Jr. Chef classes, 312 youth demonstrated they could prepare healthy snacks, taste new foods, practice new food and kitchen safety habits and demonstrate table manners.

• Area landfills were spared 100 tons of recyclable, used technology equipment by a cooperating business partner who recycled them in an environmentally friendly manner.

• A Community Swap between LeRoy and El Paso encouraged both communities to take a closer look at their community through the eyes of a visitor resulting in improved buildings and signage.

• 75 volunteer-led 4-H clubs continue to provide community service and personal growth opportunities to 1,300 youth ages 5-18.

• 17 youth organizations addressed the concerns facing youth today and understood the importance of collaboration to enhance youth development efforts after participating locally in the 4-H National Conversation on Youth Development.

• 2,500 sixth grade students from 42 schools participated in customer service, workplace readiness skills, and team building focusing on the importance of dependability and reliability in the workplace sessions offered by 66 different businesses.

• 223 homeless and subsidized housing residents demonstrated increased skills in money management, overcoming obstacles and barriers, setting goals, stress and time management.

How We Do It

• Information updates through weekly news columns:
  • “The Ag Schoolroom” in the Normalite      
  • “Welcome to Our Kitchen” in the Twin City Community News
• 5,500 households receive the Extension monthly newsletter.
• Respond to individual inquiries from over 6,000 residents annually.
• Collaborate programs with over 50 businesses, social service agencies and schools.
• Utilize over 1,500 trained volunteers who coordinate programming efforts.
• Respond to needs with workshops and special interest programs.
• Receive 8,000 hits per month on the McLean County Extension educational website www.mcleanextension.org.

2001-2002 Extension Council Members

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