Ryan Campbell invites you to the 2025 Chamber of Commerce Home & Outdoor Expo to support the YMCA of Jefferson County on February 22nd from 8am to 11am! Tickets on sale now at the Y for $10. Day of tickets purchases will be $12. Thank you so much to Royal Wholesale in Mt. Vernon for their generous donation to help us prepare this breakfast

At the Times Square Mall in Mt. Vernon.

 

Executive Director Nat Shook joins Big Jake's show to discuss a new initiative by United Way of South Central Illinois designed to support teachers in enhancing or building their classroom libraries. Teachers can now request specific books they need for their students, ensuring every child has access to the educational resources necessary for a successful learning experience.

This program was inspired by our joint venture with the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, where we discovered the significant need for books in classroom libraries. United Way Reads aims to fill this gap by providing essential educational materials to teachers.

How You Can Help:

Book Donations: Check our website and Facebook page for a list of requested books. If you have any of the listed books and wish to donate, please drop them off at:

📍 123 S 10th St., Suite 202, Mt. Vernon, IL.

Amazon Wish List: Prefer to purchase books online? Visit our Amazon Wish List for a complete list of requested books. Your purchase will be sent directly to our office, ready to be distributed to teachers in need.

Teachers: You can apply for books directly on our website or by clicking the following link: https://forms.gle/mmNb3inTWR2RPFaZ8.

By supporting United Way Reads, you are directly contributing to the educational success and future of our community’s youth. Together, we can ensure that every child has the resources they need to thrive. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to making a difference!

 
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More information via the flyer below. This year, the Mt. Vernon Township High School FFA are also working with current and former FFA members to collect livestock supplies to send to those affected by the recent hurricanes. If you would like to donate, MVTHS FFA will be collecting items the same time as the scholarship BBQ. Hope to see you there!

 
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JIm & Teresa join Big Jake's show this morning to chat about the science experiment in the sky that is piloting a hot air balloon. Be sure to get out and see Good Greeph or Blu E'nuff this weekend at Foundation Park in Centralia for the 35th Balloon Fest! Get more details at https://centraliachamber.com/balloon-fest and be sure to buy those wristbands!

 
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