Contact Us

University of Illinois Extension serving Clay, Effingham, Fayette and Jasper Counties

Main Office (Effingham County)
1209 Wenthe Drive
Effingham, IL 62401
Phone: 217-347-7773
FAX: 217-347-7775
Email:uie-cefj@illinois.edu
Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm

Branch Office (Clay County)
223 W Railroad St
Flora, IL 62839
Phone: 618-662-3124
FAX: 618-662-3191
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 8:00am - 4:30pm

Branch Office (Fayette County)
118 N. Sixth Street
Vandalia, IL 62471
Phone: 618-283-2753
FAX: 618-283-4932
Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm

Branch Office (Jasper County)
1401 Clayton
Newton, IL 62448
Phone: 618-783-2521
FAX: 618-783-2232
Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00am - 4:00pm

Volunteering with University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension provides practical, research-based information and programs to help individuals, families, farms, businesses and communities in Illinois. Its mission, in short, is to help the citizens of Illinois put knowledge to work. The contribution of volunteers is essential to the achievement of this mission.

Hundreds of volunteers contribute their time and talents to the Extension programs in Clay, Effingham, Fayette and Jasper counties. Learn how you can help others with the knowledge and experiences gained from Extension education.

Volunteer opportunities with our office include:

  • 4-H and Youth Program
    4-H is a voluntary, informal educational program for boys and girls ages 8-18.
  • Master Gardeners
    Master Gardeners are residents who are interested in learning about horticulture and sharing their knowledge with others. They receive 60 hours of training in home horticultural topics and volunteer skills. Master Gardeners are then asked to volunteer a minimum of 60 hours to the local Extension office. Training is available in the region on an annual basis starting in January of each year. Interested persons complete an application and interview. Call the local Extension for more information or to request an application.
  • Extension Advisory Council
    Extension councils serve in an advisory role cooperating with Extension staff to provide educational programs to the public.

Anyone wishing more information concerning volunteer opportunities with Extension should contact their local Extension office.

All volunteers working with youth are screened prior to undertaking assignments.