Deadline for nominations is Tuesday, June 1, 2021
State Representative Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich) announced that the Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA) is accepting nominations for the 2021 Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame Awards. Created by the Illinois General Assembly in 1994 to honor Illinois residents ages 65 and older for their personal achievements in four separate categories. Since then, 125 people have been inducted into the Hall of Fame and highlight the meaningful contributions they have made in Illinois.
“We all know a neighbor who volunteers at a pregnancy care center, a teacher or professor who has inspired young people to learn and reach for their dreams, or that small business owner who has given young people the chance to learn a trade and foster that entrepreneurial spirit over the years,” said Rep. Adam Niemerg. “I encourage everyone to nominate a senior citizen in their community.”
The four categories of nominees are:
• Community Service: awarded to those who have shown support for the general public and community-based programs in their area or at large;
• Education: awarded to those who have shown a dedication to instruction and the world of academia;
• Labor Force: awarded to those who have a record of accomplishment in their employment or professional career;
• Performance / Graphic Arts: awarded to those who have a commitment to health and the promotion of well-being or a record of accomplishment in artistic expression.
Eligibility is based on the nominee’s past and present accomplishments. The candidate must be a current Illinois resident, or a former Illinois resident for most of their life. Posthumous nominees will also be considered. Nomination forms can be filled out online at: www.illinois.gov/aging, calling the Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966 (hearing impaired: 888-206-1327) or emailing aging.ilsenior@illinois.gov.