Extension’s mission is to connect people with the University of Wisconsin. We teach, learn, lead and serve, transforming lives and communities.
Want to get the latest updates from Extension directly in your inbox?
Free Parenting Classes
Connect with other parents. Get practical, positive parenting ideas. Help children grow.
Join a StrongBodies Class
StrongBodies envisions a diverse community of individuals who are fit, strong, and healthy – and become change agents where they live.
Ask Your Gardening Question
Looking for expert advice on a lawn, landscape or gardening issue?
Latest News
- Melanie Miller, a lifelong advocate of 4-H in Wisconsin, will be inducted into the 2024 National 4-H Hall of Fame this weekend in Boise, Idaho. Among 15 distinguished honorees, Melanie’s story is one of passion, commitment, and a deep-rooted connection to 4-H that spans generations. Growing up in a family with over a century of […]
- Coalitions in five counties are partnering up with UW–Madison Extension on a new effort to engage rural entrepreneurs and strengthen community connection. As part of a grant-funded program from Compeer Financial, Extension is providing coaching and guidance for local groups to spur sustained entrepreneurship. The groups selected for this program recently moved into a phase […]
- After a 25-year career working for the Milwaukee Police Department, Jim MacGillis was planning to retire and try something new. Then the position of police chief opened in Wauwatosa, his hometown. “I’ve got family here, and I had seen the good human beings in this department have a front-row seat during the worst of times…and […]
Extension’s Work Reaches Across Wisconsin
We help more than 200,000 farmers, parents, youth leaders, neighbors and businesses through our six program areas
Know what you’re looking for?
The Wisconsin Idea
Extension’s Role
UW-Madison is a public university guided by public service. The Wisconsin Idea stipulates that education should influence people’s lives beyond the boundaries of the classroom.
Extension brings the research of the University to the people of Wisconsin. Our offices throughout the state provide educational opportunities in the communities where people live and work.
I shall never be content until the beneficent influence of the University reaches every family of the state.
UW President Charles Van Hise in 1905
