Illinois Extension- Edwards, Lawrence, Richland, Wabash and Wayne Counties

09/09/2026

The September 4-H newsletters are now online! If you or someone you know is interested in joining 4-H, the newsletter is a great way to keep up with 4-H in your county!

Check out the 4-H newsletters via the links below.

Edwards County 4-H: go.illinois.edu/Edwards4HNewsletter
Lawrence County 4-H: go.illinois.edu/Lawrence4HNewsletter
Richland County 4-H: go.illinois.edu/Richland4HNewsletter
Wabash County 4-H: go.illinois.edu/Wabash4HNewsletter
Wayne County 4-H: go.illinois.edu/Wayne4HNewsletter

09/08/2026

What’s something you wish you knew before starting a business?

Entrepreneurship is more than freedom and flexibility. It’s long hours, tough decisions, constant adaptation, and finding the balance between doing what you love and doing what the business needs to grow.

Read our new blog and discover valuable lessons learned along the journey
https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/building-entrepreneurial-communities/2026-08-31-what-i-wish-i-had-known-starting-my-business-part-2

University of Illinois Extension Community and Economic Development

09/07/2026

Illinois Extension offices are closed today in observance of Labor Day. Offices will reopen tomorrow, Sept. 8.

09/04/2026

Illinois Extension offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7, for Labor Day. Offices will reopen on Tuesday, Sept. 8.

09/02/2026

Don't forget, our bimonthly newsletter is a great way to keep in touch with your local Illinois Extension programs!

Read the August edition at: go.illinois.edu/ELRWWNewsletter

08/31/2026

Thinking about signing your child up for 4-H and have questions? Contact your local Extension office to talk with your county's 4-H program coordinator!

Edwards County: 618-445-2934
Lawrence County: 618-943-5018
Richland County: 618-395-2191
Wabash County: 618-262-5725
Wayne County: 618-842-3702

You can also visit go.illinois.edu/ELRWW4H to learn more about local 4-H programs

08/28/2026

Thank you, Fairfield National Bank, for supporting Wayne County 4-H!

🍀Thank You to Fairfield National Bank!🍀

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Fairfield National Bank for their generous donation in support of our 2026 5th Grade STEM Day. This annual STEM day (formerly known as Tech Fest) provides engaging, hands-on experiences that inspire the next generation of innovators, engineers, and problem-solvers. Thank you for helping make this event a success and for your continued commitment to our 4-H Program!

08/27/2026

Thank you to the Rotary Club of Richland County for allowing Katie to speak to your group!

Katie Bell, U of I Extension Educator
Katie shared about the classes that she offers from introductory ag classes to a more intensive 6 week course on female entrepreneurship. Thank you, Katie, for updating us on local happenings and how the extension office supports students, adults, and business leaders in Richland County.

08/27/2026

Do you have a passion for Animal Sciences, Civic Engagement/Global Living, Creative Performing Arts & Communication, Gardening, Agriculture & Food Access, Healthy Living & Nutrition, Leadership, Natural Resources & Environmental Science, Emerging Achievement, Skilled Trades, or STEM/Robotics?

Apply for a scholarship honoring your experience and passion in these areas!

This year, there are two new award categories for Skilled Trades and Emerging Achievements!

Scholarships are open to Illinois 4-H members age 15-19 as of 9/1/2026. To apply, you must have been enrolled in the 2025-2026 4-H year. Applicants can win only one scholarship per program year and only once in each award area.

Apply now through November 1 when you head here: go.illinois.edu/4HAwardsApply

08/26/2026

The new 4-H year kicks off in September, and it's a great time to join a local 4-H club!

Visit your county's 4-H webpage to learn more about 4-H, local clubs, and more!

Edwards County: go.illinois.edu/Edwards4H
Lawrence County: go.illinois.edu/Lawrence4H
Richland County: go.illinois.edu/Richland4H
Wabash County: go.illinois.edu/Wabash4H
Wayne County: go.illinois.edu/Wayne4H