University of Illinois Extension- Clark, Crawford, Edgar Counties

09/17/2026

Come support young entrepreneurs at the Kids Artisan Market this Saturday! 🎨

Join us at Marshall Autumn Fest and shop one-of-a-kind handmade creations crafted by local youth! From artwork and jewelry to crafts and other unique treasures, our young artisans have been busy creating and are excited to share their talents with the community.

Stop by, meet the talented kids behind the booths, and take home something special while supporting the next generation of makers and entrepreneurs!

Saturday, September 19
1-4 p.m.
4-H Clubhouse, 507 Locust St.

09/15/2026

Looking for hands-on learning opportunities for your homeschool student? Join us for our monthly STREAM Series, where we'll explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Reading, Art, and Math through engaging lessons and interactive projects!

Each month, students will discover a new topic, learn interesting facts and concepts, and complete a fun hands-on activity to bring their learning to life. This is a great opportunity to connect with other homeschool families while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning.

Come learn, create, explore, and have fun with us each month! 🎨🔬📚⚙️➕✨

There is a one-time fee of $10 for each student.

All classes will be 10:30-11:30 a.m. on the days below at the Edgar County 4-H Fairgrounds in Paris.

September 24-Wildlife and Nature
October 29-Physics of fun
November 25-Inventor Challenge
December 16-Holiday Maker Lab
January 28-Amazing Engineering
February 25-Coding and Robotics
March 25-Chemistry Creations
April 29-Earth and Environmental Science
May 27-Gardening and Agriculture

Register at go.illinois.edu/homeschoolstream

09/14/2026

We are excited to share that Krista Howard has joined Unit 20 as our new Local Food Systems and Small Farms Educator!

Krista brings a diverse agricultural background, including 14 years of experience teaching agriculture. She has worked extensively with youth and has experience in program development, community engagement, farmers markets, community gardens, and farm-to-table programming. She also brings practical experience with livestock, vegetable production, and small farm operations.

Krista has connections across the unit, having taught in Crawford and Edgar Counties and living in Clark County. She is familiar with our communities, understands the local agricultural landscape, and is passionate about supporting local food systems and small farms.

09/12/2026

If you own a business, serve on a board, are a nonprofit director, or hold a community leadership role, we invite and encourage you to participate in our upcoming Clark, Crawford, and Edgar County Poverty Simulation!

This interactive experience provides a unique opportunity to better understand the challenges faced by many individuals and families in our county. By gaining insight into the realities of poverty, participants can identify ways to strengthen services, build partnerships, and work together to create a more supportive community for all.

October 21 | 6 p.m.
Free to attend
Martinsville High School Media Center
255 W. Cumberland St.
Martinsville, IL 62442

Your perspective and participation are important as we come together to learn, discuss solutions, and explore how we can better serve our neighbors throughout the county.

We hope you will join us for this meaningful and impactful event!

Register at go.illinois.edu/unit20povsim

09/11/2026

Stay informed about the latest community and economic development initiatives in our region!

Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on local projects, business growth, funding opportunities, workforce development, and community success stories. Join us as we work together to build a stronger future for our communities.

Sign up today at go.illinois.edu/newslettersignup

09/11/2026

Every life holds stories worth remembering.

Join us at the Marshall Public Library - Marshall, Illinois, on October 14 for a special workshop designed to help you capture the memories, experiences, and family stories you want to preserve for generations to come.

Whether you’d like to begin writing your own life story, record treasured family memories, or simply make sure the stories you love aren’t lost to time, this workshop will help you take the first step.

No writing experience is needed. Through simple guided prompts, reflection, and conversation, you’ll discover meaningful moments from your past and learn how to begin putting them into words.

Your memories are part of your family’s story. Come discover how to preserve them—and leave something meaningful for those who come after you.

This program is free and open to the public.

09/10/2026

Join us for the 77th Annual 4-H BBQ at the Martinsville Fairgrounds!

Pulled Pork, Baked Potato, Green Beans, Ice Cream, Bottled Water

Tickets: $10 each (available from any 4-H member or at the Clark County Extension Office)

3rd Annual Chill At The 'Ville Car & Truck Show
Dirt Drags to follow
Music & Kids Activities

Choose Drive-Thru at the Beef Barn Gate or Dine-In at the Pork Producers Pavilion.

Come support local 4-H and enjoy a great day of food, fun, and community!

4-H Members - Be sure to sign up to work a shift at the BBQ!
https://go.illinois.edu/20264-HBBQShifts

09/10/2026

Join us on October 13 for Mastering Mindful Moments at Casey Township Library!

Mastering Mindful Moments is an interactive wellness program that introduces simple, practical ways to slow down, manage everyday stress, and be more present.

Participants will explore easy mindfulness techniques they can use anytime to create more calm, focus, and balance in daily life.

09/07/2026

09/01/2026

Do you cherish the stories shared by your parents, grandparents, and relatives? Join us at the Casey Township Library on September 22 and learn how to preserve those tales for future generations!

Whether you want to share your life story now or leave a lasting legacy, this workshop will help you explore the art of storytelling.

No prior writing experience is needed. With guided prompts and group discussion, you’ll gain confidence and clarity as you begin shaping your personal narrative. Join us to ensure your memories and family history are never forgotten.

There is no cost to attend this program. To register, call the Casey Township Library at 217-932-2105.