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

Joliet, IL — January 23, 2025 — Joliet Township Government, in partnership with the American Red Cross, invites the community to participate in a blood drive on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Building, 172 S Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60433. To schedule an appointment or learn more about the donation process, visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code: joliettown, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. 

“By hosting this blood drive, Joliet Township continues its commitment to supporting our community’s health and well-being,” said Keshia Ellis, Violence Prevention Director of Joliet Township Government. “This event offers a chance for neighbors, staff, and friends to make a real difference by donating blood and helping to save lives.” 

Blood is a life-saving resource that can only be replenished through volunteer donations. The American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of maintaining a steady supply, with someone in the U.S. requiring blood every two seconds. 

“Donating blood is an act of kindness that can directly impact local hospitals and patients in need,” added Ellis. “We encourage all eligible individuals to come forward, knowing that their contribution could provide a second chance for someone else.” 

The Red Cross is seeking donations from all blood types, with special urgency for those with O negative, A negative, and B negative blood types.

Toys for Tots Drive 2024

Bring a smile to children in need this Christmas! Joliet Township Government, in partnership with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated – Eta Chi Zeta Chapter – Joliet,IL, is a Toys for Tots drop-off location. Families can apply to receive toys through the Galowich Family YMCA.
Donate
Drop off new and unwrapped toys at our office at175 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL. Donations are accepted through December 13, 2024.
Apply
If your child is 12 or under, you can apply to receive a toy through the Galowich Family YMCA. Visit the following link to learn more: https://www.jolietymca.org/toys-for-tots-applications…/
Submit your application by 5:00 PM on Thursday, December 5, 2024.
Together, let’s make the holidays magical for children in our community!
—
¡Haz Sonreír a un Niño Esta Navidad! El Gobierno del Municipio de Joliet, junto con Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated – Eta Chi Zeta Chapter – Joliet, IL, es un lugar para donar juguetes para Toys for Tots. Las familias pueden pedir juguetes a través del Galowich Family YMCA.
Donar:
Trae juguetes nuevos y sin envolver a nuestra oficina, en175 W. Jefferson St., Joliet, IL. Aceptamos donaciones hasta el 13 de diciembre de 2024.
Solicitar
Si us hijo tiene 12 años o menos, pueden pedir un juguete a través del Galowich Family YMCA. Visite este enlace para más información: https://www.jolietymca.org/toys-for-tots-applications…/
Envíe su solicitud antes de las 5:00 PM del jueves 5 de diciembre de 2024.
¡Hagamos que las fiestas sean especiales para los niños de nuestra comunidad!

Community Grant 2024: K-9 for Veterans

This Veterans Day, we’re proud to highlight K9s For Veterans, NFP, a nonprofit that Joliet Township Government has awarded with a community grant.

This incredible organization supports veterans with PTSD, helping them transition to civilian life with trained service dogs—all of whom are rescues.

We’re honored to support their lifesaving mission, providing veterans with loyal companions and essential care. Thank you to all who have served!

Community Grant 2024: Spanish Community Center’s Danza Azteca Xipe-Totec

JOLIET, IL – October 24, 2024. Supervisor Alicia Morales and Clerk Estefany Bonilla proudly presented a grant to the Spanish Community Center’s Danza Azteca Xipe-Totec, a remarkable multigenerational dance troupe dedicated to preserving and celebrating indigenous traditions.

This grant exemplifies Joliet Township’s commitment to investing in our community and uplifting organizations that inspire positive change. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are thrilled to highlight Danza Azteca Xipe-Totec’s passionate efforts to share their vibrant cultural heritage with Township residents.

Together, we are fostering a more inclusive and culturally rich community!

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.