Area News
Senator Erica Harriss launches 2026 Mother’s Day Diaper Drive
State Senator Erica Harriss recently announced the launch of her annual Mother’s Day Diaper Drive, taking place from April 13 through May 8, 2026, to support families in need across the Metro East region. “Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the strength and love of moms, but it’s also a reminder that many families…
Read MoreFirst Mid earns Top Workplaces USA award for third consecutive year
First Mid Bancshares Inc. (First Mid) has earned a 2026 Top Workplaces USA award, marking the third consecutive year the organization has received this national recognition. The award reflects First Mid’s ongoing commitment to creating an environment where employees feel engaged, supported, and empowered to succeed. “This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the…
Read MoreHSHS hospitals to offer high schoolers summer healthcare bootcamps
Applications due May 2; opportunities available at HSHS hospitals in Breese, Greenville, Highland and O’Fallon High school students interested in a career in health care are invited to apply for the Summer 2026 High School Healthcare Bootcamps at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, HSHS St. Joseph’s Hospital in Breese, HSHS Holy Family Hospital in…
Read MoreAlton Main Street announces 2026 volunteer opportunities to support downtown revitalization
Alton Main Street is seeking community-minded volunteers to join its team for the 2026 season. As historic Downtown Alton continues to experience a surge in economic development and cultural activity, the organization is inviting residents to lend their time and talents to a diverse lineup of festivals, markets, and beautification projects. The 2026 calendar features…
Read MoreMadison County to distribute free AC units to low-income residential households
As temperatures begin to rise, Madison County Community Development is aiding vulnerable residents a way to stay safe and cool. Through its Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program, the department will provide free window air conditioning units to qualifying low-income households that include elderly residents, individuals with certain medical conditions, or families with young children. The program…
Read MoreGlen Carbon Homecoming sponsorship opportunities now available
Glen Carbon’s Main Street will once again come alive with music, food, refreshments, carnival rides, and more as the community celebrates the 100th anniversary of Homecoming on Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20, 2026. Touted as a “Glentennial” celebration, the weekend kicks off Friday at 5 p.m., with a full day of festivities continuing…
Read MorePartners transform MetroBus stop in East St. Louis retail corridor
Transit Stop Transformation Project partners—Citizens for Modern Transit, St. Clair County Transit District, AARP in St. Louis and Metro Transit—officially unveiled a newly transformed MetroBus stop in the East St. Louis retail corridor on April 9. The public opening marked the culmination of an 11-month process of site selection, conceptual design surveying and construction, resulting…
Read MoreKeeping families together: Local nonprofit challenges misconceptions about child abuse prevention
Caritas Family Solutions sees surge in referrals as new program connects struggling parents to immediate support As Child Abuse Awareness Month begins this April, Caritas Family Solutions is urging a shift in how communities view child welfare, emphasizing that most families in crisis aren’t neglectful, but overwhelmed and in need of support, resources and early…
Read MoreIllinois EDC launches its new dedicated research center, publishes first report
The Illinois Economic Development Corporation (Illinois EDC) recently announced its new Economic Research Center, a dedicated in-house research and analytics department. The ERC also released its first report, the State of Business, a comprehensive overview of Illinois’ economic performance and competitive position over the past year. The State of Business finds that Illinois’ economy remained broadly aligned with national growth while demonstrating key…
Read MoreSIUE to host annual symposium on ‘Energy-Water-Food Nexus’
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is hosting its annual symposium, themed “Energy-Water-Food Nexus” from 1 to 4 p.m. on April 22 at the Center for Spirituality and Sustainability, Fuller Dome, on the SIUE campus. Brought together by the Climate and Sustainability Advisory Board (CASAB) and Environmental Resources Training Center (ERTC), the event is all set to bring regional experts, practitioners, and community members together to promote awareness…
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