University of Illinois Extension- Clark, Crawford, Edgar Counties

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.

08/27/2026

08/27/2026

Ever grow an orchid? Or maybe received one as a gift?

Orchids have a reputation for being difficult to grow, but they may be easier than you think.

Tune in to the team as they welcome Jack Schooley, Extension horticulture educator and longtime orchid enthusiast, to explore the world of orchids.

Learn about common orchid myths, good orchids for beginners, watering and light requirements, getting orchids to rebloom, and troubleshooting common problems.

Plus, discover whether watering orchids with ice cubes is a good idea and more.

🎧 Listen to anywhere you get your podcasts or online at https://extension.illinois.edu/podcasts/good-growing/ep-262-growing-orchids-home-easier-you-think-goodgrowing

🎧 Watch the videocast version at https://youtu.be/SSO87aYwcJo

08/24/2026

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

08/24/2026

Join us on October 16 for the 2nd Annual Livestock Judging Contest! Youth ages 8-18, including 4-H and FFA members, are invited to showcase their judging abilities with cattle, swine, sheep, and goats.

October 16 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Martinsville Fairgrounds
$20 per school or coach
Open to youth ages 8-18

Junior Division & Senior Division
Max of 4 per team, top 3 scores count
Stenopads are allowed

We are using Scantrons this year, so please bring clipboards and pencils.

Lunch will not be available at the event, so please plan accordingly.

Register at go.illinois.edu/unit20livestock

We look forward to seeing you there!

08/21/2026

Make the most of tomato season! Whether you're preserving salsa, sauces, tomato juice, or whole tomatoes, learn safe and effective methods for canning, freezing, and dehydrating tomatoes so you can enjoy their fresh flavor year-round.

🍅Explore the resource: https://extension.illinois.edu/food-preservation/tomatoes

08/21/2026

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

08/20/2026

Youth Vendors Wanted!

Do you make crafts, artwork, jewelry, baked goods, or other unique products? Sign up for the Kids Artisan Market during Marshall Autumn Fest!

September 19 | 1-4 p.m.
4-H Clubhouse at 507 Locust St.

-Free booth space
-Tables provided
-Ages 8-18 welcome

Showcase your talents, gain business experience, and sell your creations to the community!

This is open to both 4-H members and non-members.

Sign up at go.illinois.edu/kidsmarket

Please note: If you plan to sell baked goods, you must follow the Illinois Cottage Food guidelines.
https://extension.illinois.edu/cottage-food

08/18/2026

On Wednesday, August 12, a total of 87 professionals from Casey School District participated in an interactive Poverty Simulation designed to increase awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families living with limited financial resources.

The simulation provided participants with a realistic, hands-on experience that illustrated the complexities of navigating everyday life while managing barriers related to housing, employment, transportation, childcare, healthcare, and access to community resources.

The Poverty Simulation served as a meaningful professional development experience that challenged participants to view poverty through a new lens and consider how schools can respond effectively to the needs of all students.

Participants reflected on how poverty-related challenges can affect a student's ability to focus, participate, and succeed in school. As a result, many attendees identified opportunities to strengthen communication, increase support, and foster more inclusive educational environments.