The University of Illinois System supplies knowledge, expertise, and resources to people in every corner of Illinois and beyond. With free workshops, lectures, concerts, public libraries and art galleries, volunteer groups, sustainability programs—the value of public, land-grant mission universities is immeasurable.

Learn more about public engagement at each university:

Hundreds of
programs

and resources centered on public service and engagement

Search Thousands of events

throughout the year across the system

Sharing knowledge locally

Our expertise and knowledge is shared on a local level with Illinois communities through 27 Extension units serving all of the state’s 102 counties.

Learn more about U of I Extension.

University of Illinois Extension offices throughout the state

Map of Illinois, showing Extension locations serving every county
More than 720,000 Illinois residents take part in U of I Extension programs each year.
UIS students at a volunteer activity

Providing assistance

Students, faculty, and staff provide countless hours of public service by volunteering. Whether it’s painting houses, giving blood, improving our health and environment, or feeding the homeless, people throughout the University of Illinois System give their time and talents to those in need.

The University Library in Urbana is one of the largest public university research libraries in the U.S.

Enriching lives

All three universities in the system offer public art galleries, museums, concerts, libraries, lectures, and classes. These venues provide opportunities for visitors to expand their knowledge and deepen their appreciation of arts and culture.

Interior of Krannert Theater for the Performing Arts
“Extension harnesses the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's impactful research and innovative thinking and translates them into accessible information and best practices that empower Illinois residents to improve their well-being, environment, communities, and livelihoods.”
Shelly Nickols-RichardsonAssociate Dean and Director of U of I Extension