Extension launches Health and Community Wellness Center to strengthen Illinois communities

University of Illinois Extension is launching its new Health and Community Wellness program area to better meet the needs of Illinois residents as communities and families face challenges related to health, food and nutrition, family relationships, and financial well-being. 

Housed within the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, Illinois Extension connects the research and expertise of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with communities in all 102 Illinois counties.

HCW combines and expands the work of Extension’s former Family and Consumer Sciences and Integrated Health Disparities teams into a single program area built for greater impact.

“We carefully assessed our strengths within Illinois Extension and identified where communities need us most, now and in the future,” said Jennifer McCaffrey, assistant dean for Health and Community Wellness. “This strategic alignment allows us to focus our efforts on key issues in Illinois, where we can make the biggest difference for families across the state.” 

One of the first initiatives for the HCW team is the new Center for Food Systems, Nutrition Security, and Health Integration. Opening in July 2026, the center is a statewide strategic hub for Illinois Extension, focusing on research, innovation, and leadership across food systems, nutrition security, and community health.

"Food systems, nutrition, and community health are deeply connected, and so are the solutions," said Germán Bollero, dean of the College of ACES. "By bringing together the expertise of the College of ACES with the statewide reach of Illinois Extension, this center strengthens our ability to serve communities through research, education, and engagement."

Read more from Illinois Extension.