By Andi Anderson
On the weekly highlight of statewide outreach, Illinois Extension staff and Illinois 4-H leaders gathered at the State Capitol to showcase the impact of Extension programs and request increased funding to better serve communities across Illinois.
The University of Illinois Extension hosted its inaugural Extension Day at the Capitol on March 25, following participation in the 56th annual Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day on March 24.
These events allowed staff to connect directly with lawmakers and explain how Extension programs support agriculture, families, youth, and local communities statewide.
Illinois Extension leaders called for an increase in state funding from $10 million to $20 million. As the outreach arm of the University of Illinois, Extension fulfills the land grant mission by delivering research-based education and services to residents in all 102 counties.
Despite Illinois being a top producer of corn, soybeans, and pork, the state ranks lowest among peer states in Extension funding.
Extension programs provide strong economic value. A 2019 economic impact study showed that Extension returns nearly $10 for every $1 invested. Volunteer involvement contributes an additional estimated $15 million per year to the Illinois economy.
“Extension Day at the Capitol was an opportunity to show our lawmakers firsthand the depth and breadth of what Extension does for Illinois communities every day. We are committed to expanding that impact, and we hope this event helps build the legislative partnerships that will allow us to do so,” said Matthew Vann, associate dean and director of Illinois Extension.
In 2025, Extension programs reached more than 830,000 Illinois residents, including over 20,000 Illinois 4-H members. The proposed funding increase would expand education programs, cover 4-H participation fees, and strengthen agricultural, nutrition, and community development education across all Extension units.
“This inaugural event for Extension was a successful way for visitors to our showcase tables to learn about our many programs while staff strengthened relationships with legislators during office visits,” said Carl Baker, Extension government relations assistant director.
“Our Day at the Capitol was a great opportunity to educate our lawmakers about the value of Extension in all 102 counties across the state. Our informational tables, which were staffed by our expert educators, gave a hands-on opportunity to experience the difference we make,” said Janice McCoy, regional associate director.
Approximately 250 visitors attended the event, including legislators and agency staff, strengthening awareness of Illinois Extension’s statewide role.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jevtic
Categories: Illinois, Education