Six Illinoisans and one business receive Governor’s Volunteer Service Award for service in Southern Illinois
SPRINGFIELD,IL-(Effingham Radio)- The Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service (Commission) is presenting five Illinoisans and one business, for service provided in southern Illinois, with the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award during a special reception at the Old State Capitol.
The award recognizes volunteers and volunteer programs that have made a difference in Illinois and highlights the importance of volunteerism and community service.
This event will take place April 18, 2018 at 1 p.m.
It is part of the National Volunteer Week festivities and also a signature event of the Illinois Bicentennial Commission.
“Illinois is a state that was truly born, built, and grown with the spirit of volunteerism and community service,” said Governor Bruce Rauner.
“The individuals and businesses we’re recognizing have impacted millions of lives. We’re honored to highlight their service.”
“These individuals and businesses embody the true spirit of volunteering and are making a difference in their communities through a variety of activities such as helping the homeless, youth education, and assisting veterans,” said Commission Executive Director Scott McFarland.
“We are proud to have them serving in Illinois.”
The Commission received more than 130 nominations in six categories (adult, AmeriCorps, business, senior, Senior Corps, and youth) from the Commission’s five service regions across the state (East Central, Northeast, Northwest, Southern, and West Central).
Commissioners reviewed the applications and selected 30 award winners.
The following are the 2018 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award recipients for service provided in southern Illinois.
More information about the recipients is on the Serve Illinois website at www.Serve.Illinois.gov.
Southern Award Recipients
Adult: Marleen Shepherd – Carbondale
For service to: Sparrow Coalition
AmeriCorps: Zach Brookman – Opdyke
For service to: Opdyke-Belle Rive CCSD #5
Business: Luxury Looks Barber & Beauty Salon – Fairview Heights
For service to: Men of East St. Louis
Senior: Alice McGowen – Jerseyville
For service to: Humanity Road, Inc.
Senior Corps: Ron Simpson- Carterville
For service to: Gum Drops NFP
Youth: Kaitlyn Barnett – Troy
For service to: Girl Scouts of Southern Illinois