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.

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.  

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. 

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.” 

Movie Night at the Field

Free Movie Night at the Slammer's

Blankets and pillows were laid out with some snacks to be had….

Joliet Township hosted a Free Movie Night at the Slammer’s Stadium this past Sunday evening. All families were welcomed to enjoy the movie Spider-Man No Way Home.
 
Thank you to the families that came out and enjoyed a nice cool evening at the park.
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