Marion Connects Honored with 2024 Mayor's Service Award at Marion Chamber 104th Annual Dinner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Marion Connects Honored with 2024 Marion Chamber of
Commerce's Mayor's Service Award
Marion, IL – January 22, 2025 – Marion Connects has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Marion Chamber of Commerce's Mayor's Service Award at the 104th Annual Banquet and Award Ceremony held on Friday, January 17th, 2025. This accolade recognizes the organization's outstanding contributions to the community and its commitment to excellence in service.
Marion Connects, a volunteer organization, was also
recognized as a finalist for the 2024 Governor's Hometown Awards. With its
unique and transformative contributions, Marion Connects stands out as a beacon
of community service, profoundly enhancing the quality of life in Marion. Their
impact on the community is truly inspiring and sets a high standard for
volunteer organizations.
The City of Marion has invested significantly in downtown
revitalization, and Marion Connects is activating the new downtown assets by
adding events, especially in the center plaza of Tower Square. With the support
of numerous volunteers, Marion Connects has successfully organized the Third
Thursday event, a free family fun day held every month (weather permitting).
Now in its second year, this event has been a resounding success, drawing
crowds of 250-750 people and showing promising signs of further improvement.
Thanks to strong partnerships with organizations such as
the Boy Scouts of America, 4-H, and John A. Logan College, Marion Connects
offers more than just fun at their Third Thursday events. They provide youth
development and education opportunities, encouraging young people to
participate in active play and promoting healthier futures. Local high school
sports teams also interact with younger students, organizing games and
activities.
Marion Connects' efforts extend beyond Third Thursday
events. They have added movie nights, fundraisers, networking events, and more,
consistently bringing, expanding, and improving community events. Their work
builds community, engages volunteers, and provides exposure to small
businesses.
The 104th Annual Banquet and Award Ceremony, hosted by the
Marion Chamber of Commerce, is a significant event that celebrates the
achievements of local businesses and individuals. The evening includes a social
hour, dinner, and an awards ceremony where various honors are presented,
including the Citizen of the Year, Distinguished Member, Distinguished
Business, Young Professional Leadership, Lifetime Achievement, and Awards of
Excellence
Past Winners of the Mayor's Service Award:
