A Community Comes Together to Save Lily Mae, a Dog in Need of Urgent Care

Veterinary Technicians standing in front of a van with a dog; photos of the dog Lily Mae in a collage; One in which lily mae, a black and white pit bull is standing happily; lily mae eating ice cream out of a cup; lily mae's x-rays showing her leg is broken; lily mae's broken leg

JOLIET TOWNSHIP, IL — September 16, 2024 — Joliet Township Animal Control (JTAC) is proud to share the inspiring journey of Lily Mae, a resilient dog whose recovery is a shining example of community kindness and collaboration. Thanks to the compassion of local veterinary professionals and generous donations from the community, Lily Mae’s life has been saved.

Lily Mae was brought to JTAC with a severely fractured and swollen leg. After being abandoned by her previous owners, she required urgent medical attention. Despite JTAC’s outreach to various rescues, no immediate assistance was available. As her condition worsened, the outlook became grim, and she faced possible euthanasia.

However, a turning point came when Dr. Mark and his team at Mallard Point Veterinary Clinic in Channahon made the decision to use their angel fund to cover the cost of surgery, ultimately saving her life. They amputated Lily Mae’s leg, ensuring her a second chance. Additionally, The Hive Kitchen (home to Not Another Pizza Joint) held a fundraiser, donating proceeds from the sale of their garlic knots to help cover the costs of Lily Mae’s surgery.

“We are incredibly grateful to Mallard Point Veterinary Clinic and The Hive Kitchen for their unwavering support. Their generosity and dedication exemplify the power of a community coming together to help an animal in need,” said Becky Gomez, JTAC Assistant Director. “It truly takes a village.”

JTAC Veterinary Technician ACO Maher also shared the heartwarming backstory: “Lily Mae was limping when she arrived at JTAC, and despite our efforts, no rescue came forward right away. Days later, her condition worsened, and the swelling in her leg tripled. It became clear that surgery was her only chance. A special veterinary technician at Mallard Point believed in Lily Mae and made the heartfelt decision to give her a second chance at life. They said, ‘I know there are millions of dogs in the world, but Lily Mae’s big eyes will melt anyone’s heart, and she deserves a family who will love her as much as she’ll love them.’”

For more information about Lily Mae’s adoption or to learn how to support JTAC, please visit our website or follow us on Facebook.

Congratulations to LeShae Hudson and The R.E.I.A.L. for Winning the Collaborative Excellence in Prevention Award

An image of LeShae Hudson, MHS, smiling, with golden balloons and words Congratulating her on this award.

Join us in congratulating the Joliet Township Government’s Violence Prevention Council Coordinator LeShae Hudson, MHS, and the Racial Equity Impact Assess League (REIAL) for winning the Collaborative Excellence in Prevention Award by Prevention First. The award will be presented at Prevention First’s Connections in Prevention Conference on September 26-27 at the Marriott Chicago Naperville.

According to Prevention First: “The Joliet Township Violence Prevention Council has been honored as one of our Collaborative Excellence in Prevention awardees for its work on the Racial Equity Impact Assessment League (R.E.I.A.L.). Under the leadership of LeShae Hudson, the R.E.I.A.L. has made an extraordinary impact across the State of Illinois, playing a vital role as one of the Greater Illinois Violence Prevention Council Coordinators under the Reimagine Public Safety Act. Their mission is to reduce gun violence in Joliet and surrounding communities by fostering collaboration among organizations focused on gun prevention, mental health, and youth development.

In just its first year, The R.E.I.A.L. brought together over 20 organizations that had previously worked in silos, creating a powerful alliance for change. This collaboration was put to the test following the tragic January 2024 incident involving Romeo Nance, where The R.E.I.A.L. swiftly responded by mobilizing their coalition to provide critical services—ranging from mental health support to funeral services—for the affected community. This tragedy also led to the creation of the “Emergency Response Protocol,” a new process that unites organizations to respond rapidly and efficiently to gun violence incidents.

The R.E.I.A.L.’s groundbreaking strategies and commitment to sharing best practices have garnered statewide attention, including from the UIC Gun Violence Consortium. Their efforts to mentor other communities in gun violence prevention, in partnership with the Office of Firearm Violence, have sparked changes in municipalities across Illinois. The R.E.I.A.L.’s willingness to share knowledge and strategies has created a ripple effect, giving other communities the tools to reduce gun violence through collaborative action.

Congratulations to The R.E.I.A.L. for their incredible work and for leading the charge in creating safer communities across Illinois!”

Former Deputy Clerk Estefany Bonilla Sworn in as Joliet Township Clerk

Estefany Bonilla, who previously served as Joliet Township Government’s Deputy Clerk, was officially sworn in as the new Township Clerk during the Board Meeting on September 10, 2024. This position became available following Alicia Morales’s transition from Joliet Township Clerk to Joliet Township Supervisor on July 16, 2024. When the Clerk role was vacated, community members were invited to apply, and Estefany Bonilla was then selected by Supervisor Morales and the Township Trustees after interviewing several candidates. 

Estefany was first sworn in as Deputy Clerk in the fall of 2023. In this role, she was instrumental in preparing bids, organizing board meeting agendas and minutes, coordinating the annual town hall meeting, and serving as a FOIA officer, notary and deputy registrar. She also took on additional duties by assisting with webpage management. Her extensive skill set and experience in these areas has well-prepared her for her new role as Township Clerk. 

Supervisor Alicia Morales stated, “Estefany’s dedication and technical skills have already made a significant impact on our township’s operations. I am excited to see how she will continue to enhance our records management and voter registration processes in her new role.” 

A lifelong Joliet resident, Estefany was born in California but moved to Joliet as a young child, making it her home. She is a proud graduate of Joliet Township High Schools, where she was actively involved in JROTC for all four years. Estefany credits the program for instilling her with self-discipline, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service. “The JROTC program changed my life for the better,” she shared. “Special thanks to Colonel White for instilling these values in me.” 

Estefany earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts, with honors, from the Art Institute of Chicago in 2018. Since then, she has worked as a freelance graphic designer, supporting small businesses and nonprofit organizations with brand-building and content creation. Her work reflects her creativity, attention to detail, and ability to collaborate effectively. 

“I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the community where I grew up and continue to call home,” Estefany said. “I will work diligently to preserve the township’s history and ensure the accuracy of our records for the future.” 

Outside of her clerk duties, Estefany enjoys reading best-sellers and spending time with her family, including her nephews, nieces, and her dog, Susuki. She invites the community to greet her at upcoming board meetings, community events, or at the Joliet Township Government office. 

For any questions or concerns regarding township records, please contact contact@joliettownship.net or call 815-726-4781.  

International Day of Peace Celebration & Peace Walk in Joliet 2024

International Day of Peace Celebration & Peace Walk in Joliet 

On Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the community is invited to the International Day of Peace Celebration & Peace Walk in the cafeteria of Joliet Central High School, 201 E Jefferson St, Joliet, IL 60432. The event is hosted by the Nonviolent Cities Project—Joliet, in partnership with Joliet Township Government’s Community Violence Intervention (CVI). This gathering aims to foster a culture of peace, aligning with the United Nations’ 25th anniversary of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace. 

Event Agenda & Highlights: 

  • 1:00 PM: Doors open. Attendees can explore resource tables, meet with local service providers, and enjoy light refreshments. 
  • 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: A series of speeches from community leaders, including Keshia Ellis (Joliet Township Violence Prevention Director), Doug Kasper (Chair for Nonviolent Cities Project -Joliet), Alicia Morales (Joliet Township Government Supervisor), Cesar Guerrero (Joliet City Councilman) Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant (Will County Executive), Rachel Ventura (IL State Senator), and keynote speaker Ernest Crim (Public Teacher, Author). 
  • 3:15 PM: A reflective outdoor Peace Walk around the school will take place, symbolizing the commitment to promoting peace within the community. 

Alicia Morales, Joliet Township Government Supervisor said, “Our community is strongest when we come together to foster understanding, compassion, and nonviolence. This event is a chance for all of us to contribute to a safer, more peaceful Joliet.” 

Doug Kasper, Chair for Nonviolent Cities Project -Joliet, said, “The International Day of Peace is more than just a day—it’s a movement. By participating in this walk and hearing from our community leaders, we are all taking a stand against violence and laying the foundation for a culture of peace in Joliet.” 

The Nonviolent Cities Project—Joliet is dedicated to envisioning a Joliet free from violence by increasing awareness of nonviolent practices, investing in education and community development, and uniting local organizations and individuals for a just and peaceful society. 

Joliet Township Government’s Community Violence Intervention (CVI) is a comprehensive initiative launched in 2023 to address gun violence through trauma-based interventions and community-centered strategies. The program includes services such as case management, street outreach, victim advocacy, behavioral health support, and community engagement. 

This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be available throughout the event. The community is encouraged to participate in this significant initiative to cultivate a peaceful and just society 

For more information, please contact Karen Johnson of the Nonviolent Cities Project—Joliet at 312-545-3460 or nvcpjoliet@gmail.com or Nicole Lurry, Community Engagement Coordinator of Joliet Township Government, at 815-593-4453 or nlurry@joliettownship.net. 


Renovated Sugar Creek Bridge Officially Opened with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

Joliet, IL — August 26, 2024 — The Joliet Township Road District announced the official opening of the newly renovated Sugar Creek Bridge following a ribbon-cutting ceremony held earlier today. The event marked a significant milestone in the Road District’s commitment to taking on big projects that benefit the community. The project includes vast improvements in neighborhood drainage and walkways.  

 

The Sugar Creek Bridge, located at Sugar Creek Drive and Sugar Valley Lane, has long served as a critical link within the community. The renovation project, managed by Highway Commissioner Vincent Alessio, was completed after years of planning in coordination with Will County. This project highlights the benefits of using multiple sources of funding and expanding the way in which the Road District serves its residents.  

Highway Commissioner Vincent Alessio emphasized the project’s impact and the Road District’s dedication to road improvements noting, “The completion of the Sugar Creek Bridge is a part of a year that includes a nearly 2.3-million-dollar investment into Joliet Township Road District infrastructure this year, which is significantly more than our 1.8-million-dollar levy. This is done by utilizing Motor Fuel Tax dollars and Rebuild Illinois dollars.” 

The renovation of the Sugar Creek Bridge was executed with a focus on safety, accessibility, walkability, and drainage. 

  • Completely renovated bridge from footing to pavement 
  • Improved pedestrian walkways and safety features 
  • Enhanced drainage systems to prevent flooding 

This project underscores the Joliet Township Road District’s dedication to maintaining and improving the essential infrastructure that supports the community’s growth and well-being. 

With the successful completion of the Sugar Creek Bridge renovation, the Joliet Township Road District remains committed to maintaining and upgrading the township’s infrastructure. Future projects will continue to prioritize the safety and accessibility of roadways for all residents. 

Joliet Township Government partners with American Red Cross to host community blood drive

Joliet, IL — July 25, 2024  — Joliet Township Government will host a community blood drive with the American Red Cross on Thursday, August 1, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Building Community Room, located on 172 S Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60433. As a token of appreciation for their contributions, donors will receive up to $40 in gift cards for their blood donations. 

For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call Call 1-800-RED CROSS or sign up online at redcrossblood.org with sponsor code joliettown. 

“Joliet Township Government is committed to strengthening our community and helping meet hospital and patient needs through blood donations,” said Keshia Ellis, Violence Prevention Director of Joliet Township Government. “This blood drive is our way of giving staff, colleagues and neighbors an opportunity to help save lives.” 

Blood is a perishable product that can only come from volunteer blood donors. With someone in the U.S. needing blood every two seconds, blood products must be constantly replenished, according to the Red Cross. 

“We urge community members to donate blood and help ensure that patients in local hospitals have a supply of blood ready and waiting before an emergency occurs. There’s no better feeling than knowing that your blood donation may give someone a second chance at life.” 

According to the Red Cross, donors with all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative. 

New Services and Accomplishments Highlighted in Joliet Township Government’s Summer Newsletter

JOLIET, IL – July 24, 2024 – The Joliet Township Government has issued its Summer Quarterly Newsletter, detailing recent developments and initiatives within the township. Key updates include: 

White House Invitation: The Joliet Township Government recently participated in a national network on violence prevention at the invitation of the White House. This invitation acknowledges the township’s commitment to enhancing community safety through effective violence prevention strategies. 

Forest Park Community Center Acquisition: The township is pleased to announce the acquisition of the Forest Park Community Center. This facility will serve as the operational base for the transportation and behavioral health teams, facilitating the delivery of critical services to the community. 

Transportation Services: The Transportation Department continues to provide essential services to senior and disabled residents, with ongoing collaborations with agencies in the Joliet area. The demand for these services remains high, highlighting their importance in ensuring residents have access to reliable transportation. Some of our agency partners include: 

  • Greater Joliet Area YMCA 
  • Holsten Human Capital Development 
  • Will-Grundy Medical Center 

Ongoing Resident Services: The township offers a range of services, including senior services, general assistance, a medical loan closet, and animal control. The staff is dedicated to delivering these services efficiently and effectively, supporting the community’s diverse needs. 

Supervisor Alicia Morales stated, “We remain focused on improving the quality of life for all residents of Joliet Township. The community’s continued support and involvement are crucial to our success, and we value the trust placed in us.” 

For more detailed information on these updates and other news, residents are encouraged to read the full Summer Quarterly Newsletter available on the official website: Joliet Township Summer Newsletter 2024. 

Alicia Morales Appointed as First Latina Supervisor of Joliet Township Government

Alicia Morales, Joliet Township Government Supervisor, holding flowers, standing between the American flag and the Joliet Township flag

Joliet, IL – July 16, 2024 – The Joliet Township Board of Trustees is proud to announce the appointment of Alicia Morales as the first Latina Supervisor of Joliet Township Government, effective July 16, 2024. Alicia Morales brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and dedication to her new role, marking a historic milestone in our community’s governance. 

Morales is a lifelong resident of Joliet and Will County, deeply rooted in our community’s fabric. She holds a degree from Joliet Junior College and an MBA from the University of St. Francis. Morales’s commitment to education and community service is evident through her career as a licensed bilingual teacher and her current role as Vice Chairwoman of the Joliet Junior College Board of Trustees. 

In addition to her contributions in education, Alicia Morales is an accomplished entrepreneur, having founded her own Allstate Insurance agency in 2020, where she assists clients in protecting their investments. 

Alicia Morales had been serving as Joliet Township Government Clerk since 2021. During her tenure as Clerk of Joliet Township, Joliet Township Government has expanded through numerous initiatives that have significantly enhanced our community. Key accomplishments include: 

  • Expansion of programs and services 
  • Community Violence Intervention (CVI) initiatives 
  • CVI Council 
  • CVI Services: Victim Advocacy, Case Management & Outreach 
  • CVI Behavioral Health and wrap-around services 
  • Transportation Department that offers rides to senior residents, residents with disabilities, and for partner agency clients. 
  • VITA tax preparation helping low-income residents and senior residents with free income tax preparation services. 
  • Summer internship program since 2022 
  • Availability of free notary services more than doubled 
  • Ensured Senior Tax Levy funds distributed to diverse senior clubs  
  • Acquisition of Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Center (formerly Peter Claver Center) in 2022 
  • Acquisition of Forest Park Community Center in 2024 

These were accomplished through additional funding awarded through state and federal grants over the last two years totaling $3,783,190, not through increasing taxes on local taxpayers. 

Morales said, “I am excited to continue the work that this administration has started. The foundation of all our programs has been established. I’m ready to see them through with our team to fruition in serving our Township residents.”  

With Alicia Morales transitioning to the role of Supervisor, the position of Joliet Township Clerk is now vacant. We invite all interested and qualified individuals to apply for this important role. Application details and forms can be found on our website https://www.joliettownship.net/public-info/board-vacancy/. The deadline for applications is Friday, August 2, 2024. 

Joliet Township Government joins national violence prevention network visit to White House

Joliet Township Government joins national violence prevention network visit to White House

On May 22, 2024, Supervisor Angel Contreras and Peace Over Violence Director Keshia Ellis of Joliet Township Government joined other members of the National Offices of Violence Prevention Network (NOVPN) by participating in an event hosted by the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention focused on community violence intervention and collaborative work to build an ecosystem of Offices of Violence Prevention (OVPs) to keep our communities safe. 

OVPs, also known as offices of neighborhood safety and other names, are premised on the notion that community safety should not be the exclusive province of policing and the criminal justice system. Charged with addressing public safety through the lens of public health, OVPs typically focus on the application of community-based strategies to intervene in or prevent violence for those at highest risk of engaging in or being the victim of gun violence.  

Joliet Township Government’s Violence Prevention Program includes Peace Over Violence (POV), a comprehensive program focused on reducing incidents of gun violence through case management, street outreach, and victim advocacy. Operating out of the Joliet Township Ozzie and Peggy Mitchell Center (formerly Peter Claver), POV is located at 172 S. Chicago, Joliet, Illinois 60432. Joliet Township Government’s Violence Prevention program also offers trauma-informed behavioral health services to aid those suffering in our community. The third component of the Violence Prevention Program is the Racial Equity Impact Assessment League (REIAL). Comprising community leaders, the league meets monthly to discuss collaborative opportunities that positively impact the community, coordinate emergency community engagement efforts, and assess the implementation of violence prevention programs. 

Numerous local and state governments have recently established OVPs in response to nationwide surges in violence during the COVID-19 pandemic. In line with this momentum, in September 2023, President Biden established the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention to reduce gun violence and implement and expand upon key executive and legislative action which has been taken to save lives. This White House gathering of NOVPN members from more than 40 jurisdictions represents an exciting next step in President Biden’s commitment to ending gun violence in our country. 

Joliet Township Government Supervisor Angel Contreras said, “I’m very proud of the work our violence prevention team on the ground is doing in the Joliet area. Their commitment and passion often go unnoticed, but their impact is profound, shaping our community for the better. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity extended to us by the White House to participate in the NOVPN initiative. This recognition underscores the significance of our work. We look forward to increased funding to elevate our efforts, ensuring the continued support of our community, its initiatives, and organizations, all viewed through the critical lens of public health investment.”  

Peace Over Violence Director Keshia Ellis said, “Visiting the White House in representation of gun violence prevention was nothing short of amazing. The Biden administration is doing an amazing job of tackling the issues that surround gun violence. I am excited about the new funding opportunities, and their abilities to further help impacted individuals.” 

“The NOVPN team is excited to have Network members from across the country join us at the White House in this first of its kind discussion in our nation’s history,” said NOVPN Director Shantay Jackson. “These leaders are at the forefront of their local jurisdictions, working tirelessly with their communities and partner agencies in the reduction of gun violence and, as we head into the summer months, this conversation is necessary, timely, and invaluable.” 

LIHEAP

       

LIHEAP: Providing Financial Assistance for Utilities.

The Joliet Township Government Office will be partnering with Will County Center for Community Concerns to offer LIHEAP Assistance for clients at our location 175 W. Jefferson St. Joliet, Il 60432. The LIHEAP program helps pay the high cost of utilities (Water, Gas, Electricity).

The event will take place on Wednesday, October 26, 2022, 9:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m.

Anyone who is interested in applying for assistance will be required to submit the following documents.

  • Photo Identification
  • Proof of Gross Income for all households’ members for the past 30 days
  • Copy of current utility bill
  • Copy of SS Cards/ ITINS for all households ‘members in the home

Attached to this email is the flyer for the event. Please encourage anyone who may need assistance to attend.  We encourage to share details to other members who attend your designated programs. If anyone has any additional questions, I can be contacted at (815)726-4781 ext. 304.